Controller size?

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Icullus
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2012/07/07 23:25:34 (permalink)

Controller size?

This is a straight newb question to those in midi.  Im sorry for asking but i've been to busy at the moment to bother the guys at the store.  I'm a guitar player so all this midi and digital is "different" than what im used to.  i've been playing around with sonar x1 ess and want to add more than just guitar.  i would like to get a midi controller but dont know whats up the 25, 41, 61 , ect.. keys.  I'm tight on cash so i was looking to buy just a 25 key one but if i go into studio instruments it shows a 88 key for your options. 
 
My question is 'if i get a small midi controller will i be able to set it to play different ranges than what the 25 keys are at. 
(i.g. can i use studio insrtumrnts and pull up the string section and just add each pf the insrt they had and set the controller to what one i ewant to use.  (i.g. i guess im asking if i can can change the "c" of the controller ?
 
I'm just a simple guitar guy so im gonna appologize for those who know this stuff.  ROCK ON! 
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    ukmoonlitknight
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    Re:Controller size? 2012/07/08 01:57:26 (permalink)
    Hi there,
     
    Check the spec of the controller, but you should find a pair of 'octave shift' buttons to 'up' the range an octave and 'down' the range an octave each time they are pressed. I have a very old (and very small) novation basstation synth I use as a controller with this facility).
    I maybe wrong but I believe that sometimes it can be a software option,  but the buttons make it really easy to change whilst playing.
     
    Buying second hand would be an option for a budget.  My Basstation is now 'vintage' LOL, so prices are silly, but a more modern controller might be much cheaper, just look for one that doesn't look like it's been gigged.
     
    I'd check out a load of specs and decide what else you need and choose a couple that fit (maybe aftertouch for example - see chart link below). Downloading a manual if one is available from the manufacturer before buying is worthwhile too. Simply google the name of the controller and .PDF  - that usually gets one if it's out there.
     
    I did a quick google and came up with this: http://www.sweetwater.com/shop/keyboards/keyboard-controllers/buying-guide.php    It has a short and simple what to look for guide.
     
    Here is an excellent comparison chart http://kellysmusic.ca/chart/compchart.asp?chartid=1 Not sure how up to date it is, like I say, mine is vintage - like me! ;-)
    (before you ask I am not connected to either company!)
     
    Good luck.
     
    Steve
    post edited by ukmoonlitknight - 2012/07/08 02:21:58
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