I'm looking for a midi keyboard controller, # of keys doesn't really matter. But I want one that is pre mapped for Sonar Platinum. You know, plug and play. I can load drivers or patch files. I just don't know how to map things out myself.
I am currently using a Akai MPK49. It works, just not at 100%. I've tried the ACT and learn and scoured through the internet looking for solutions, I'm tired of trying. I'm thinking the Roland A-800 Pro might work.
Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Before you consider Roland check this cakewalk dot com thread out.
have-anyone-tested-a-pro300500900-with-win10-m3265030.aspx#3266194
 
If Roland cannot be bothered to develop drivers for Windows 10 for current products then they deserve no business at all.
On the other hand if they do come through with drivers for the majority of this hardware then you can consider the Roland but be aware that people seem to have problems with getting the ACT function to work how they would imagine. Have a look at Youtube videos on the subject. In fairness I think it is unrealistic expectations regarding controlling both the DAW and VSTs from the same controls. It's not going to be a substitute for dedicated hardware controls on a hardware synth.

I do not have any of these 2, I prefer Roland action over Akai one (the reason I have 500s) but that is not the point.
 
1) A-800 Pro has complete plug-and-play mapping. But that works for basic mixer functionality. For plug-in control A-800 operate throw the very same ACT, with all related problems you could notice with MPK49. I repeat, when it comes to plug-in control, only boards with own technology (Automap, Advance, Kontrol) have different behavior. MCU also has own mapping, throw hand written configuration file. All other (inclusive VS-700) are using ACT.
 
2) it looks like A-800 has 270 degree knobs. Endless encoders are in general more user friendly (you can start controlling the parameter without matching the value first). Also Roland pads are quite different from Akai pads.
 
So, in general you get keys with different feeling and pre-mapped basic functions. You loose endless encoders and big pads.
 
If you have 30 minutes time, check http://www.azslow.com/index.php/topic,154.0.html
If you have 2-3+ days time, you can make your MPK work at the level of A-Pro or even better, since you can freely define what you want far above the level of what standard plug-ins do.

About ACT mapping... You can do the mapping good and reliable, unfortunately you should edit XML files for that. One time operation (per plug-in). Note that the result is not different from any other dedicated plug-in controller, except someone has already done that for you.

To the Host who has moved that topic: the question was mostly about Roland A-800 Pro. And that is Cakewalk hardware till Tascam produce something similar...

All this becomes moot if he wants to move to Win10, and most people with Windows and Sonar will want to.
That is unless Roland get the drivers working again in Win 10.
 
Currently Roland A800 Pro driver does not work with Windows 10.
Another possible crippled driver without advanced functions may work. The keyboard can be run with an alternate Windows driver for what they call "standard mode" See page 65 and 73. As kindly pointed out by forum member "Musichoo".
 
This may have to do as an interim measure as Roland configure a new driver for this product, which is a current production model.
If Roland cannot even manage this then they surely do not deserve anyone's business.
 
 

Regarding the ACT function in WIN 10 Roland support now says for A-800 Pro:
Exclusive Software:            

• A-PRO Editor : Sorry but it is out of support.
• A-PRO Control Surface Plug-in for SONAR : Sorry but it is out of support.

As Azlow has already mentioned you should be able to map specific controls to the keyboard but it's no longer going to be a quick, easy operation. Fingers crossed Roland are working on a new driver for Win 10 but actually there is no proof of that, only that the drivers are "under testing" as opposed to "under development". Hopefully "Under Testing" is the stage after development?
No date for drivers. No specified promise of drivers. Just have to keep fingers crossed.
 
The good thing with the Roland driver (ignoring A pro editor stuff, which I never liked anyway) is being able to click on a control in a plugin and map cc controls within the GUI, Quick and easy.
The Roland Win 10 driver (if indeed they are working on one) should bring this functionality back in Win 10. 

It avppears My Edirol Roland PCR keyboard will not be getting Windows 10 drivers. It's 6 or 7 years old so if you want to use a Roland for that long and then throw it aways, go for it. Actually, you can have mine.

Bass Daddy,
Yes Roland have abandoned you.
However you might still be able to use the keyboard with the generic windows driver.
 
Check your manual, it might be that your keyboard can be switched to "normal mode" from standard "advanced mode" this is possible on some of the Roland keyboards (such as the A-800).
I tested that option with the A800 and it works in Win10.  Albeit seemingly with limited CC mapping options in some programs.

Rob James G
Bass Daddy,
Yes Roland have abandoned you.
However you might still be able to use the keyboard with the generic windows driver.
 
Check your manual, it might be that your keyboard can be switched to "normal mode" from standard "advanced mode" this is possible on some of the Roland keyboards (such as the A-800).
I tested that option with the A800 and it works in Win10.  Albeit seemingly with limited CC mapping options in some programs.

Thanks Rob. Another Forum good guy helping someone. If I can play the keys and change the midi channels I would be very happy. Will look into it later in the day, thanks again.