Intuitive Instruments has rolled out firmware 2.2.0 for their award-winning Exquis MPE controller, alongside new workflow scripts that integrate seamlessly with Ableton Live, Bitwig Studio, and Reaper. These updates transform the already innovative instrument into an even more powerful creative hub for modern music production.
The Exquis MPE Controller made waves in 2023 when it won the Commercial Hardware Product category at the MIDI Innovation Awards, judged by an impressive panel including electronic music pioneer Jean-Michel Jarre and inventor Roger Linn. The controller’s unique design features 61 backlit soft silicon keys arranged in a hexagonal matrix, with consecutive notes running horizontally and harmonic thirds vertically.
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Each key provides independent gestural control across four dimensions: velocity (strike force), horizontal tilt (X axis pitch bend), vertical tilt (Y axis CC#74), and pressure (Z axis channel pressure or polyphonic aftertouch). This creates an incredibly expressive playing surface that responds naturally to musical gestures.
Firmware 2.2.0 features
The latest firmware introduces several game-changing capabilities. The MPE Key Freeze feature allows users to ‘capture’ the expressive state of any key or chord by holding keys and clicking the fourth rotary encoder. This locks their X/Y/Z axis positions, sustaining complex gestures indefinitely and freeing hands to perform other parts or control effects.
MIDI Score Display turns the controller into a playable score display similar to Guitar Hero, lighting up keys when MIDI notes are sent to the device. Notes outside the current range are indicated by octave buttons, with the system prioritising notes from the active scale.
Additional improvements include direct sustain and expression pedal connectivity via MIDI IN, improved sensitivity curves, better handling of off-centre key presses, new default layouts, and on-screen display of both internal tempo and firmware version.
Deeper DAW integration
The new Python-based Ableton Live Remote Script integrates Exquis into Live’s native controller family, delivering launchpad-style Session control with expressive MPE touch. Users can create, launch, and delete clips or scenes without touching a mouse, while accessing track controls, volume, pan, and aux sends directly from the controller.
The script automatically recalls any of Exquis’ eight onboard layouts when changing tracks, instantly reconfiguring the controller for specific instruments. Live 12’s tempo, root note, and scale can be set directly from Exquis, while the exclusive favourites system provides quick access to racks and plugin presets.
Jürgen Moßgraber has extended his DrivenByMoss Bitwig Studio Extension and DrivenByMoss 4 Reaper scripts to support Exquis, creating deeper integration with advanced control features. These include Play View for unlocking full MPE potential, Track/Device/Parameter Selection View for effortless navigation, and Clips/Scene/Mix View for direct mix management.
These updates position the Exquis as more than just an MPE controller — it’s evolving into a central creative hub that bridges the gap between traditional instrumental expression and modern digital production workflows.
Firmware 2.2.0 and the DAW scripts are available now for existing Exquis owners here.
