Intuitive Instruments Exquis

I am using this controller with Pianoteq and Surge XT. This is a very interesting and innovative instrument with a big range in chromatic mode. The isomorphic layout forced me to think in terms of intervals and reveals the surprising symmetries inside and between chords. Due to a very compact layout you can also play fast lines with ridiculous note spacings.

You do need to practice, do not expect to be competent from the outset. I highly recommend editing the sensitivity curves and pitch bend range to your preferences.

A minor improvement would be possible in the casing. As the controller has small rubber feet, there is a very slight air gap between it and your surface. When you hit the "keys" with high velocity the casing bends a little and creaks. I addressed this by putting a thin cloth under it. Ideally the casing would either be stronger or sit directly on a surface without an air gap to prevent this.

Finally, huge praise for all the documentation, ease of dismantling and even official 3D models for printing your own spare parts.

This is a fascinating and joyful object to use. The more I use it, the more entranced I am by its possibilities. I primarily got this not because of the MPE features, but because of its isomorphic layout, which suits my brain well (I have played both keyboards and guitar for a long time). At this price point, I don't think there's anything that can compare if you're looking to get into isomorphic layouts.

There's a good amount of customisation, but one or two minor things are missing (like the ability to make the touch bar do something other than arpeggiation). Luckily the firmware and companion app are both actively being developed. The developers are active on Discord and seem quite responsive to user requests.

I do find the vertical layout a bit odd and I hope a future "wide edition" is released. The Exquis can be rotated 90° (and the software lets you compensate for this), but that results in a "pointy sides" key arrangement that feels less comfortable than the "flat sides" default arrangement. A wide version with ~60–80 keys would be amazing.

I purchased the Esquis as a present, which stayed with me for a few days, so I had the time to fiddle around with it. First of all - it is a different beast from all the other keyboards I have been using. The backlight is extremely helpful and it in general, it would push you to explore your limits, which is very, very nice. Easy to connect to external sound sources (I use Ableton with Kontakt mostly).
The only downside I would like to mention is that the keys require force, greater than the other synths. I have big hands, and that is perfectly fine for me, but more delicate players might find it tricky to get the best from their stroke and aftertouch.
Definitely would recommend!