[linux-audio-user] Re: Frustrated, small review on sequencers :( - Linux-audio-user

20 May 2003

Hi Juan

...
 Hi, I basically write this because i'm pretty
frustrated 
Today I wanted to learn how to use a typical sequencer
(I mantain my own midi sequencer, but it's not very typical)
I simply wanted a sequencer that supports a track editor
and a pianoroll.

So I went and checked some. Tried to see if I could 
get stuff done with any of them, so In order of what I tried,
I'll list them here in the order I used them:
 ..snip..

...

MUSE:

This one looked pretty good at the begining, but
some things I dont like. First of all, it didnt detect
the midi devices properly, as i had to go and reset
them in the midi ports menu. 
 I guess you are talking about external midi devices?

...
 MIDI input worked
some times, and some others it didnt, and the
overall interface is pretty UNintuitive. Many
essential parts of the program lack proper shortcuts,
and the ability to customize them (like rosegarden).
I spent the most time with MUSE, trying to figure
out how to do things. In most cases it took me a while
but it wasnt bad, just strangely organized (like the track
menu, the way you add tracks, the master tempo).
The pianoroll looks good, but it lacks a lot of keyboard
support, and also Painting events doesnt seem to be
working, as i cant paint no matter how much I try.
Documentation is too basic to learn how to use the
program efficiently. It also crashes a lot, but
on more specific situations.
 MusE has always been the platform I've favoured, and with the current 
status of things I don't think this will change anytime soon.
Considering your critisism I realise that you are probably right about 
alot of usability issues, I've used it too long, I no longer think about 
the quirks it has ;).

I understand though that it can be a major obstacles for new users 
(together with lacking documentation).

I'd be very happy for any suggestions you might have about usability 
enhancement (or anything else for that matter). You mentioned for 
instance keyboard shortcuts and customizability which is duly noted (and 
master tempo which is a long standing usability problem). You mentioned 
trouble to do certain things, do you remember if there where other 
"things" than those mentioned?
If you have more, please send it along.
Of course that goes for others also!

Regards,
Robert