I just need it for a few simple passages.  thank you
Dan

SONAR now includes a virtual keyboard accessed from the Views menu or ALT+SHIFT+0

I haven't updated yet I have X3 build 352, do you know anything about that version.  Thanks in advance.
 
dan

you can enter notes manually using the mouse in the Piano Roll View (PRV), but not using your computer keyboard.  just open the Piano Roll View in X3 for that MIDI track .I think double clicking on the track defaults to opening the PRV, but I'm not 100% positive on this - if that doesn't work, check VIEW>PRV or something similar.
 
there is a 3rd party software you could buy to input notes using your computer keyboard, but there's no real control of velocity and it's not cheap ($50, IIRC), so IMO it would be money better spent to go buy a cheap keyboard for that amount of money with velocity.

Then, use the Step Sequencer with the PRV. Or, use the PRV to draw in the notes.
These methods will have you basically using the mouse to run these powerful Sonar applets. 

ya, the tricky part is I want to get the rhythm to the boys of summer syth sound.  And I can't seem to find it with out playing it.
 
Thanks Beagle
 
PS.  Does membership mean I can't use the new stuff after 12 months,  or I just quit getting free updates?

If you've paid the full 12 months you keep what you've paid for

For older versions of SONAR see http://forum.cakewalk.com/FindPost/2991556

Dan Hollars
ya, the tricky part is I want to get the rhythm to the boys of summer syth sound.  And I can't seem to find it with out playing it.
 
Thanks Beagle
 
PS.  Does membership mean I can't use the new stuff after 12 months,  or I just quit getting free updates?

Don't know if you're still looking for help:

There's also the Bome's Midi translator. There's a trial period then it's about $25.
It lets you use your computer keyboard and while it doesn't get you velocity you can get the rhythm right and then use an envelope for the velocity.

http://www.bome.com/products/mousekeyboard

Buy a little Korg nanoKey keyboard. I use it in the couch with my laptop to tap out rythms and melodies, and while it is not a substitute for full size keyboards, it is much better than the computer keys since it is velocity sensitive, fits perfectly over the space where the laptop touchpad is, under the qwerty keyboard, and is very inexpensive.