Although the Microsoft Natural Keyboard's curves and bumps are reminiscent of Microsoft's bulbous mouse, the company says its shape is the result of a year and a half of research. It was time well spent: The Natural Keyboard is a low-cost alternative to wrist cramps and finger pain.
The keyboard is split down the middle and angled, with a large spacebar bridging the gap between the two key clusters. A curved palm rest follows the split-key arrangement's contours.
The most noticeable difference between this and a regular keyboard is that your hands move much less with this one. Your hands approach the angled rows of keys in a more natural position, so that everything seems to be within easy reach.
The Natural has some unique keys, as well as its own software. There are two large keys on either side imprinted with the Windows logo and an applications key on the right. The software lets you use the numeric keypad to control the mouse pointer. Keys also govern vertical and horizontal movement. The 1, 3, 7 and 9 keys move the pointer diagonally. While this arrangement is not intended to replace a mouse, it's handy for short mouse trips and extra-precise mouse pointing.
Microsoft Natural Keyboard
Price: $99.95
Pros: Ergonomic design
Cons: None significant
Platforms: Windows 3.x, 95, NT
Microsoft Corp.
800-426-9400
WinMag Box Score 4.5
NMB's ConcertMaster multimedia keyboard lets you conserve your desktop space and eliminate some of the wire maze required for separate speakers and keyboard. It combines a full Windows 95 keyboard with integrated speakers. Though the 2-watt, 2-inch speakers are less than 12 inches apart, their sound is surprisingly good, due in part to the built-in SRS 3-D stereo feature. The speakers have a frequency response of 200Hz to 15kHzÑperfectly adequate for most listenings.
Set-up is simple: The ConcertMaster connects to your system via a thick cable, which splits into plugs for your keyboard, sound card microphone jack, sound card output jack and the AC power source. The keyboard's main panel includes a switch to turn off, play or record sound using the built-in omnidirectional microphone.
The SoundBlaster-compatible ConcertMaster carries a one-year warranty. We tested the keyboard on a Dell Pentium 133c with a compatible sound card. Don't think that the addition of sound means a compromise on keyboard quality; the keys have a crisp, responsive feel.
If you want to reduce cable clutter and your desktop can't accommodate a pair of speakers, the NMB ConcertMaster is a solution to consider. The ConcertMaster offers a great combination of sound, touch and low price.
NMB ConcertMaster RT-9100W
Price: $99.95
Pros: Sound; keyboard quality
Cons: No tone controls
Platforms: Windows 3.x, 95, NT
NMB Technologies
800-662-8321, 818-341-3355
WinMag Box Score 4.5