[LAU] Linux compatible keybord controller?

[Q]

On 31/12/13 11:40, Moshe Werner wrote:
> Hi all.
>
> I'm in the market for some nice keybord controller.
> I would be glad to hear your recommendations.
>
> Her are the musthaves:
> 1. Linux compatibility
> 2. Pitch + Modulation
> 3. Velocity sensitive (aftertouch would be nice but not mandatory)
>
> Also some assignable pads and knobs woud be useful.
>
> Would love to have your insights.
>
> Cheers
> Moshe


Hi Moshe

What do you need -- just keys, or knobs and sliders as well? Weighted or 
synth-action keybed?

I think most controllers, if they're class compliant MIDI-over-USB, just 
work.

I had a Roland PCR80 but I'll steer clear of Roland stuff in future. For 
a start they have a joystick rather than separate mod- and pitch-wheels. 
Second, and they may have fixed this now, they were notorious for 
developing dead keys. I tried the common fix but this didn't work and I 
couldn't be bothered emailing Roland UK to send me new rubber contact 
strips.

I got the PCR because I needed knobs, sliders and buttons to control 
softsynths, but I use mostly hardware synths these days so I don't miss it.

I have an M-Audio Keystation 88. It's "weighted", that is, the keys have 
springs on them so it has more resistance and feels more piano-like. 
It's not perfect but it's good enough to be able to play a sampled piano 
expressively (something I couldn't do with a synth-action 'board). It 
does have the ability to change MIDI channels and stuff like that, but 
it's a question of remembering which of the black and white keys to hold 
down in conjunction with the function button. So, it's basic but does 
the job and is still going strong.

As examples of class compliance, the controller I use most because it's 
always to hand is my Moog Little Phatty. IIRC my DSI Mopho Keyboard 
"just works" as well.

HTH

Q