Expressive E’s Osmose, the Keyboard Hans Zimmer Used to Score ‘Dune 2’, Now Has a $999 USD Controller Edition

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Summary

  • Expressive E has introduced the Osmose CE, a streamlined MIDI controller version of its groundbreaking MPE keyboard that ditches the built-in synthesizer for a more accessible entry price
  • Arriving in 49-key and 61-key configurations priced at $999 USD and $1,199 USD, the new hardware undercuts the original $1,799 USD standalone flagship
  • The release debuts alongside Ctrl-e, a dedicated companion software ecosystem loaded with over 900 custom presets and direct integration for major DAWs

Expressive E is making a powerful tool for film scoring more accessible. The French company has unveiled the Osmose CE, a simpler version of their innovative keyboard that’s quickly become popular in Hollywood. After composer Hans Zimmer used several of these keyboards to create the unique sounds for Dune: Part Two, Expressive E is now offering a version geared towards a wider range of musicians and producers. By removing the built-in sound generator, the Osmose CE is designed to be a hands-on control center for those who already use music software on their computers.

This new controller is made in Poland and features the same innovative keybed as the original, allowing musicians to shape sound with side-to-side movement and pressure. You can still bend notes, add vibrato, and create dynamic effects directly on the keys. The design has been updated with a sleek white aluminum top and black metal base, a change from the previous all-black finish. It comes in 49- and 61-key versions and connects to your equipment with both modern USB-C and traditional MIDI ports.

To make the hardware immediately useful and inspiring, not just a basic device, it’s launching with Ctrl-e software. This free program connects the feel of physical controls with digital sound creation, featuring powerful sound engines from companies like Synapse Audio, Kilohearts, and Dawesome. It includes over 900 pre-made sounds that are already set up to work perfectly with the controller’s movements, so you won’t need to spend time configuring things yourself. The system also automatically recognizes and controls key features in popular music programs like Ableton Live, Logic Pro, Bitwig, and Cubase.

As a huge fan, I’m really excited about these new versions! They’ve released 49-key and 61-key models for $999 and $1,199, which is way more affordable than the original $1,799 synth. It feels perfectly timed too, because everyone’s looking for ways to add more natural, expressive feel to their music – something that stands out from all the digital stuff. And the best part? The company hasn’t forgotten about those of us who already own the original! They’re planning a firmware update to give us the same new features and compatibility, which is awesome.

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2026-04-30 10:26