Hi,
does anyone here use Pianoteq with a Roland A33 keyboard?
I read that the A33 doesn't use the full midi velocity range, but what impact does it have on the actual playing?
Is it a noticeable difference?
I am piano newbie (just started to learn), and I am yet to decide what piano VST to choose, but Pianoteq is high on the list.
Well, let's suppose the limitation it's about midi velocity range, like for example the controller only register midi velocity from 1 to 110, instead of 1 to 127(standart). If it's really the case it woud imply would have some problems about get the full dynamics in pianoteq (or other good piano VST) from PPP to FFF. But I think it's possible to adjust pianoreq velocity curves graphic to set some lower midi values to correspond to higher values of piano key velocity.
There also other important thing to check, and it's about the controller dealing with high/heavy Hand strikes. If the controller hit high velocities too easily for a given finger touch, even whenit was set to heavy playing/heavy keyboard adjustment, this would be a problem with only partial fix.
Maybe could be a good idea to take a very good N95 mask and test it in a store and if possible get pianoteq in a laptop and a midi cable, to test in the store with pianoteq.
A quarter of a century old 73 key synth action keyboard might not be ideal but it's a starting place that's a little better than many people's 25-49 key synth action and even semi weighted keyboards, if it is in fine condition.
I understand that the Roland A33 is synth action not semi weighted or hammer action.
I won't pretend to be a serious pianist, but I do know that ideally you want to be using graded hammer action (graded meaning most notably heavier action in the bass range), if you want to be even slightly serious about learning piano technique.
You would have adjust the velocity curve to best suit your keyboard, however only so much can be achieved. You cannot compensate for the wrong type of action.
I don't even think it's just about translatable technique (to acoustic piano). When you're using semi weighted or synth action it is too easy to accidentally trigger the wrong velocity, messing up the expressivity of your performance. Basically it's too sensitive when you don't want it to be.
With most synth action keyboards it is extremely easy to hit maximum velocity, or they limit you below maximum velocity.
Synth action means a light spring behind each key.
In contrast hammer action means each key is weighted, and it is this weight that returns the key to it's normal position.
Basically with synth action it is easy to trigger the sounds. It's not like the sensation of using a percussive instrument.
The middle ground is a heavier spring design called semi-weighted. Typically chunky keys more akin to a piano key with some weights and a stiffer (but slower) action. It's not really suitable for piano either.
For piano you only really want hammer-action, given the choice.
OK, thanks.
so, my velocity limitations aren't really a thing, given that my keyboard isn't providing the necessary action, it seems.
that kind of helps. I think my keyboard velocity is still ranging from 1 to 127, but skipping every 2 out of 3 steps.
that topic of keyboard action, is that the same regarding electric piano VSTs for the fender Rhodes, Wurlitzer etc?
it is that yet another thing on it's own?
for the next months I will stick to my Roland a-33 and see how it goes...
OK, thanks.
so, my velocity limitations aren't really a thing, given that my keyboard isn't providing the necessary action, it seems.that kind of helps. I think my keyboard velocity is still ranging from 1 to 127, but skipping every 2 out of 3 steps.
that topic of keyboard action, is that the same regarding electric piano VSTs for the fender Rhodes, Wurlitzer etc?
it is that yet another thing on it's own?
for the next months I will stick to my Roland a-33 and see how it goes...
I don't have personal experience of the A33. Synth action varies like semi weighted action varies, and graded hammer action varies.
Playing organ sounds it wouldn't matter.
A Rhodes has less dynamics in the velocity compared to an acoustic piano - it is still hammer action. Actually it has less in terms of the action compared to the generally inferior Wurlitzer.
Wurlitzer EPs apparently have superior action to Rhodes. Wurlies are generally regarded as having a rough sound in comparison to the Rhodes (though more variable in tonality per key, and were more robust for touring too).
Also though generally regarded as inferior they have a certain character, a certain charm so you want both sounds.
Playing intentionally limited pop style presets for acoustic piano it won't matter so much as with that type of preset they intentionally limit the dynamics anyway. IOW such presets go for a hard punchy sound (and are often mono). Such sounds are designed to cut through a mix, not demonstrate the dynamics of a piano. That's not to say that all pop piano tracks use such pop presets. You would be unlikely to use such pop presets if you were making a solo piano and vocals recording for instance.
mhh, I am aware this is a very dangerous question, but, in regards to proper (piano) key action: what would be a decent midi keyboard to get, that would provide a good key action? any affordable options?
mhh, I am aware this is a very dangerous question, but, in regards to proper (piano) key action: what would be a decent midi keyboard to get, that would provide a good key action? any affordable options?
At what budget?
An entry level Casio 88 key digital piano with graded hammer action with USB midi. If you can afford (or wish to push the boat out a Little) you could look further up the range for extra pedals, triple key sensors, better action and so on.
Perhaps an Alesis model.
Roland also make a quality 88 key graded hammer action triple sensor midi controller, MIDI 2.0 but for a lot more pennies than an entry-level Casio.
Studiologic SL Grand.
I'm sure you can find the lists for others.
I will wait and try pianoteq with my current keyboard first (am away over Xmas, so can't try right now), but eventually I might get a better one.
thanks for the recommendations :-)