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Why is Lumatone so expensive? Isn't it just another MIDI controller?

We get this question a lot. The short answer is -- no, it's not just another MIDI controller!

Matt McLeod avatar
Written by Matt McLeod
Updated over 6 months ago

Okay, we get this question a lot, and hey, we get it. Lumatone is a premium instrument, and it carries a premium price tag.

Current pricing for the Lumatone can always be viewed on our ordering page. We do have sales from time to time, but if you see it on sale you should jump on it, as we'll be having these less and less now that demand is increasing.

This is a very unique instrument. Lumatone is a very expensive dream, and it has taken a lot of money and risk-taking to make it come true. We realize it’s not for everyone, but those of you who share this dream with us understand the value of the instrument you’ll be buying.

Once in a while we see a comment online that says something like “thousands of dollars for a midi controller? No thanks.”

Respectfully, we think those folks are missing the point, or simply don’t have a need for an instrument like ours. While Lumatone does control sound-generating devices via MIDI, it would be a misunderstanding to just toss it in the category of “midi controllers.” We have yet to come across any other instrument that has anywhere close to 280 colour-customizable keys with real, keyboard-like travel and polyphonic aftertouch. Let alone one that presents them in an isomorophic layout, and offers the ability to build and switch between custom mappings on the fly.

From our travels and discussions, we think there are enough of you out there that “get it.” It’s because of your enthusiasm that we’re willing to take the enormous risk of building this thing. We’re truly grateful to those of you who recognize the value of Lumatone and have chosen to invest in one to help us build this new community!

Our costs continue to rise due to tarrifs, global supply chain issues, and rampant inflation. We've kept our pricing roughly the same since we launched in 2020, but unfortunately our pricing will increase soon due to Trump's tariffs. Please complain to him, and not to us! In the meantime, best to snag one now before the price increases take hold.

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