Re: [LAU] Linux compatible keybord controller?

On 31/12/13 11:40, Moshe Werner wrote: 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