Modartt user forum - Roland A-88 MK2 - MIDI controls and DAW

Re: Roland A-88 MK2 - MIDI controls and DAW

2023-01-20T18:34:58Z

I use the old A-88 (MKI).
Indeed, some functions are repeated and others are irrelevant for the "Piano" instrument. However, I like the key action, and the MKII's keys are even better (PHA-4).
For the sake of consistency, I've decided to replace the Pitch bend function with the "Mozart Rail" pedal.
Most of the controls I do through the computer keyboard, customizing the "keyboard shortscuts".
In your case, to operate a DAW, I believe it is more appropriate for you to acquire a Launchpad and continue with your A-88 MKII instead of replacing it.

Re: Roland A-88 MK2 - MIDI controls and DAW

2023-01-19T17:39:56Z

concorde wrote:

I bought it to control my DAW, but I don't think it's designed for that. I notice Pianoteq can accept these MIDI data (like PROG CHG messages etc). But my DAW's, Cubase and REAPER, don't seem to be designed for this.

I'm sure Reaper can handle this just fine. Try this video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ykxK8SXtHHM

for an introduction to the possibilities.

Roland A-88 MK2 - MIDI controls and DAW

2023-01-19T09:50:13Z

Obviously, most MIDI or DAW controllers have the piano keys, plus possible options like faders, buttons, pressure-sensitive pads.

I rushed a purchase of the A-88 MK2 some time ago, simply on the basis that it has perhaps a more realistic action than other MIDI controller offerings.

The Roland A-88 MK2 has buttons and knobs which send MIDI messages - PROG CHG, MIDI CC, NOTE, with the 128 different messages for each.

If you look at the left side panel with the buttons/knobs on it, since the 1-8 pads near the very top take care of all 128 messages, the other buttons/knobs simply repeat some of the messages, meaning they do not offer anything except a different location (or in the case of the knobs, a value to send with the message). I believe the 1-8 pads are also pressure sensitive -> value.

It seems like the A-88 MK2 is designed to control MIDI devices which are designed to expect MIDI data.

I bought it to control my DAW, but I don't think it's designed for that. I notice Pianoteq can accept these MIDI data (like PROG CHG messages etc). But my DAW's, Cubase and REAPER, don't seem to be designed for this.

Cubase is able to detect all of my buttons and knobs. It is laborious to input them 1 by 1 when there are 384 messages total. But I won't need anywhere near that anyway.

My question is, can I treat the PROG CHG, CC, and NOTE message types as all the same in the context of a DAW?

Should I just downgrade to an FP30x or something and forget about DAW controls? I require triple-pedal setup and a realistic piano action.

Aside: I notice the PROG CHG pads illuminate permanently until selecting a different PROG CHG. Whereas the CC pads toggle on and off with each press and unlimited can be pressed. The NOTE pads only light up as you're applying pressure to them.