I have an SL88 here. But it's not connected to my main computer, instead it has an Rpi 4 in a small case with a quality DAC installed and with a 10" touch screen. The Rpi runs a custom version of Debian and currently only has Pianoteq installed. A single 3-outlet power strip with a switch turns on the Rpi, which in turns powers the SL88 and screen via USB, and the monitors.

If I was using it with my main computer, there would be nothing to do. It would just be on. Any software I would start would see it and could use it for input. I have a much cheaper M-Audio 88 key controller there, and I often leave pianoteq running on that computer so that i can always "noodle". Depends a bit on the s/w ... pianoteq has an option to remember which MIDI inputs to use, and defaults to "everything you've got".

Note that if the SL88 is connected via USB, then it is always "on".

On Wed, Mar 27, 2024 at 3:12 AM david <gnome@hawaii.rr.com> wrote:

Good evening!

I just ordered a StudioLogic SL88 MIDI controller. (Sorry, been playing piano since age 3 and missed 88 keys!) I've been using a Yamaha PSR-225 for some sounds and entering notes. It has no controls such as pitchbend, while the SL88 has three joysticks.

I mostly use Yoshimi, Qsynth, Aeolus, and Rosegarden. Occasionally other softsynths. I'm running Debian Bookworm. I use Cadence to manage the audio and other connections.

Any advice on how I can setup my studio conveniently? The one convenience of having a keyboard that could make its own sounds was that simply turning it on was enough. Something automatic would be nice.

Ideas? Thanks.