The Nektar NP-1 Universal Footswitch Pedal is a basic, rugged on/off footswitch (sustain-style) pedal used mainly with MIDI keyboards, digital pianos, and some synths.

What it is

It’s a simple momentary footswitch (not an expression pedal), meaning it only sends:

• Pressed = ON
• Released = OFF

This makes it function like a sustain pedal or assignable switch (play/stop, record, tap tempo, etc.).

Key features

• Metal chassis (stage/studio durable build)
• Switchable polarity (works with most keyboards)
• 6 ft / 1.8 m cable with standard 1/4" TS plug
• Rubber base for grip on the floor
• Compact and lightweight (~0.3 kg)

Compatibility

Works with:

• MIDI keyboards (like Nektar Impact, Yamaha, Casio, etc.)
• DAWs (as play/stop, punch in/out, etc. when mapped)
• Drum machines / synths with footswitch input

Important detail:

• It is not an expression pedal
• It does not send continuous MIDI values (CC)
• Only simple switch signals (on/off)

Real-world feedback (quick summary)

• 👍 Many users like it for the price + solid metal build
• 👍 Works well when polarity is set correctly
• 👎 Some users report inconsistent contact or durability issues over time (varies by unit)

Bottom line

The NP-1 is a cheap, universal “works most of the time” footswitch—good for:

• Sustain
• DAW control
• Basic foot-trigger actions

But if you need:

• Silent operation
• Heavy touring reliability
• Advanced pedal behavior