Decisions, decisions. :) I just put a new FAQ on the LinnStrument FAQ page that may help: Q: Can you help me decide between the larger LinnStrument model or the smaller LinnStrument 128 model? A: The larger model gives you more flexibility for two-handed play, as well as more space to continue chords or single lines up into higher registers without switching to other rows. A good analogy would be the difference between playing a 24-fret and 15-fret guitar. You’d appreciate the freedom to continue melodic runs into the upper registers on the longer model, but the smaller model will more easily fit in your suitcase, not to mentioned being easier on the wallet.
Such a beautiful instrument. I'm actually on a hunt for a polyphonic 128+ step sequencer and that's how I came across the LinnStrument (Which I'm aware this is not intended as primarily a sequencer) but I would very much purchase this for the instrument that it is. Having said that and to my main point, you might want to consider design/manufacturing a primarily a 128 step sequencer vision of this. I think there's a real lack of anything like that in the market specially in the analog hardware synth scene.
Thanks for the suggestion, but I’m not in the on/off switch business. LinnStrument can be thought of as more like a violin or guitar or cello, not a sequencer or clip launcher. It’s playing surface may resemble an array of cheap lit switches, but it’s actually sensitive to fine 3-dimensional finger movements that allow it to capture all of your subtle vibratos, pitch bends, dynamic expression and timbral variations in real time, and polyphonically. That’s why it’s more expensive than the cheap on/off switch control surfaces on the market, and why using it as a step sequencer or clip launcher is really a waste of its expensive sensing technology. However, there are lots of companies making on/off switch control surfaces who would value your suggestion.
@@rogerlinndesign I do have to say that if the sequencing steps were increased this might replace the octatrack and Keystep in my setup - being both the main midi controller and a sequencer. (I'm saying this as a happy user of the Linnstrument 200 and I love the immediacy of the sequencer on it already)
The fixation on the “on/off switches” seems to be a useful way to prevent scope creep, the Deluge for instance seems to throw everything and the kitchen sink into the mix, which makes the learning curve very steep. While both approaches have their pros and cons both are still boutique devices. The users are niche with a wide range of use cases and enabling creators with useful features is what has made the Deluge so successful. This LinnStrumentalist much prefers to have the choice not to use a feature rather than the manufacturer deciding that for him. The LinnStrument could easily be one of the best (and maybe First) MPE sequencers, for example being able record “3D expression” at each step when pressing the note. And, using up either the left or right split so I can go back to performing while the other split’s sequence is playing. That is if the LinnStrument has that much processing power.
Hi ! Do you plan on improving the sequencer, especially regarding the step length limitation (having more than 32 steps) and more importantly the range (having more than the very very limiting 14 notes range) ? Or is it limited by the hardware ?
Sorry, no. The reason is that LinnStrument is not a sequencer but rather an expressive musical instrument whose primary function is to bring the performance expression of acoustic instruments to electronic sound. It happens to also includes a bonus feature: a simple step sequencer. But it has no dedicated controls for step sequencing, instead repurposing some of its play pads for sequencer controls, so it can never be the step sequencing you want it to be. Further, using it as a step sequencer is a waste of its expensive polyphonic 3D Touch sensing technology because step sequencing requires only cheap on/off switches. For this reason, people who are initially interested in using it primarily as a step sequencer usually don’t buy it when they learn that it costs $1499. I suggest you would be happier with a dedicated on/off switch step sequencer for much less money.
a scrolling sequence view, as any piano roll in a daw would be a nice addition. what i mean is scrolling through the entire sequence left to right, irrespective of the 'sequence bank' selected at any time.
Mircea Nicolae I'm afraid you're confusing a DAW's piano roll view with a step sequencer. If the position were moving, you'd find it very difficult to press the intended step button while playing because by the time you press it, the intended step may have moved to the button next to it. That's why no hardware step sequencers scroll in real time, and if a DAW's piano roll is used for real time step entry, you must first turn off real time scrolling. Also, step sequencing is merely a minor bonus feature of LinnStrument. It's main purpose is an expressive musical performance instrument, permitting subtle and continuous control of 3 dimensions of finger movement, polyphonically, as shown in other videos on my site, www.rogerlinndesign.com. If you're only interested in step sequencing, you needn't spend $1500 for LinnStrument's expensive 3D multitouch technology because you only need cheap on/off switches. And there are plenty of low-cost on/off switch grid controllers that will do step sequencing.
thanks for your reply. my interest in linnstrument is both for its sequencing and for its polyphony. i understand your point about sequencing vs piano roll playing mode. however, i see no reason why the piano roll view could not be inserted as an extra option. it is certainly very useful on the push 2, as it gives a dynamic view of the sequence. from my perspective, the strong argument for your proposal is that it is not associated with a given daw. in my case, i would be able to use linnstrument in studio one 3, which is the daw i use. at the time being, studio one 3 lacks a dedicated midi surface similar to the push. also, because the music i make is usually more than 16 steps, i would really find it useful to be able to view the entire sequence as it's playing, once it's dialed into the matrix.
Mircea Nicolae In addition to the problem I identified, real time scrolling of LinnStrument's 32-step sequence wouldn't help you because its lit buttons can't display the position within the sequence as a computer screen can. And there are many other reasons that would become clear if you were to see such a feature implemented. I understand that you want a dedicated control surface for your Studio One so that you can have the equivalent of Ableton Push. The problem is LinnStrument is not that and will never be. LinnStrument is an expressive and sensitive fine musical instrument, providing the subtle expression of guitar, violin or saxophone for the performance of electric sound, which happens to include a simple step sequencer. The confusion is that because of its stringed-instrument note layout, it resembles a low-cost on/off switch grid controller, so sometimes people are confused by the resemblance. No matter how much you wish it is a low-cost on/off switch grid controller, it is not and will not be.
Found on thing funny, with the initial green "note" that was of a velocity lower than 96: Raised a few Questions: 1. Does it track velocity while "typing" the steps in? I always longed for step sequencer or arpeggiators that could track and record dynamics and repeat the dynamics to in a sequnce. Will put a more dramatic and rhythmic edge to it. 2. I've always wanted an arpeggiator/or step sequencer with a "guessing transposing function". Say I've set a pattern through some step sequncer/or arpeggiator. Now that pattern may or may not form a recognizable scale, but say, I ask it to "play in C major" it should do that, but whenever I press another pad, that note becoms the new root of the pattern of the sequencer, and follows the key it's in. Or if I transpose it, it would follow suit. If I press a pad/note that isn't in the scale determined, it may or may not shift. it may play a DIM chord or something like that, but split up in sequence/arpeggiator...I know it's a little bit too cheating, like some of the old home organs... ;-) but anyway... Is this possible or only totally dependet on the receiving ends synth software? It hasn't very much to do with MPE and expression though, but since this has enormous expressive and touch sensitive qualities I thought this one would be the one that nailed it.
I'm blown away! Since the day I saw this, Im gone crazy to buy this. Only issue is budget! Can the same step sequencing be done in 128 model as well? If yes, I'm wondering how as 128 version is limited in keys than 200 version!
There’s a helpful FAQ on my site. Please click the link below and read the FAQ “Can you help me decide between the larger LinnStrument model or the smaller LinnStrument 128 model?” www.rogerlinndesign.com/support/support-linnstrument-faqs
One of my favorite aspects of the LS is being able to slide note and such. Is there a way to record the performance side of the LS live into the sequencer?
What I really want to see is a video on STEP WRITING (SEQUENCING) the sounds of Superior Drummer 3 on a Linnstrument 200 (not 128) ... as I'm at the crossroads of the SEABOARD 49 and LINNSTRUMENT 200. Please help.
Thank you for your interest in LinnStrument. I’m afraid that it doesn’t matter which sound generator you use because it wouldn’t make any difference in how you use LinnStrument. LinnStrument is a MIDI controller that sends standard MIDI messages. And all drum sound generators receive the exact same MIDI messages. However, if you get a Seaboard, you won’t be able to this: ruclips.net/video/HHWrSs8o1V4/видео.html
If you are using this to sequence external synths can you transpose the sequence on the fly from those synths or is it locked to the notes specified by the Linnstrument?
While playing back sequences from the internal step sequencer, using the Transpose function will transpose the playback of those sequences in real time.
@@rogerlinndesign Thanks Roger, just to clarify. The transpose function on the Linnstrument or transposing on the external gear itself? For example if I have a sequencer running into a Minimoog, could I transpose the sequencer by the Minimoog's own keyboard or would I have to transpose it from the Linnstrument itself?
Yes. Each of the 2 keyboard splits has a sequencer associated with it, and either split may be used for either live play or sequence playback. For example, you can have both splits' sequences play for 2-track sequencing, or one split's sequencer playing back while using the other for live play.
Wow, a response from the inventor himself. Excellent, thank you so much!. Random question: I want to use Kontakt in Ableton. To get MPE, do I need to do the work around for both programs? As in 7 instances into Kontakt multi rack, fed into the separate ableton tracks for each poly voicing? The description for the ableton work around on the FAQ was confusing to me, and the screenshot didn't make it clear. I could be messing up the Kontakt side of it as well though. Perhaps a good candidate for a future video? Also one more thing: are CC parameters universal across all synths and DAW's?
Regarding Kontakt in Live, neither is MPE-compatible so yes you would need to kludge both Live and Kontakt. I don't think I'd make a video for this, but I don't think it's too difficult to download my example Live file (from the Recommended Sounds page) and alter it to your needs. Regarding universal CC parameters, I'm sorry but I don't know what you are asking.
Thanks. I'll figure all that out in due time. My linnstrument just came in, and I hooked it up to ableton. It recognizes linnstrument in the midi port area, but it is no where to be found in the control surface area. I rebooted the program with the controller already connected and it still doesn't show.
Hi Chris, Thank you for buying a LinnStrument. Your connection in Ableton is correct in that it is a "MIDI port" in Ableton's terms, just as with any other MIDI keyboard. A "Control surface" in Ableton's terms in a recording interface with transport controls or a clip launcher, both of which LinnStrument is not.
LinnStrument is a MIDI controller and sends standard MIDI. So it works with every MIDI synth or DAW in existence. The only caveat is that LinnStrument has a mode called Channel Per Note (also called MPE), which permits its 3-dimensional touch capture to be independent for each simultaneous touch, by sending each touch on a different MIDI channel. At this time only about 35 MIDI synths implement MPE, including all the synths in Logic and Bitwig and others listed on our site under LinnStrument page > "MPE/Expressive Sound Generators". However, if you're mainly interested in LinnStrument's Step Sequencer, there's no need for MPE mode so it works with every MIDI synth or DAW.
OK, so this isnt sequencing the notes in bitwig, it actually has its own internal sequencer, that you would sync with any DAW, is that right? (yes, i have a RISE 25 & bitwig, familiar with MPE)
That particular video didn't use Bitwig but rather Logic's ESX24 sampler for both the guitar and drum sounds and nothing more. LinnStrument is a MIDI controller without internal sounds like Rise, but it also has a built-in step sequencer.
Brandon I’m not familiar with Studio One 4 Pro, but MPE is MPE. There is no such thing as a Roli-specific variant of MPE. Also, there is no such thing as an MPE DAW. If a DAW passes all MIDI channels to the track (which nearly all do except for Ableton), then it is MPE compatible. MPE is nothing more than sending each note over a different MIDI channel.
Brandon Thanks, Brandon. By the way, MPE isn’t necessary for LinnStrument and in fact, most LinnStrumetalists use regular one-channel synths. Please read the 4th FAQ on this page: www.rogerlinndesign.com/ls-faqs.html
@Mr. Fedor LinnStrument isn’t a step sequencer that rather an expressive, quality musical performance instrument that happens to include a Step Sequencer as an added bonus feature. If you’re looking to buy it as a step sequencer, it really isn’t worth the money because you’d be wasting its patented expressive polyphonic 5D touch surface. If all you need is a step sequencer, you can use any cheap on/off switch controller and save a lot of money.
You’d be surprised by how many people have a different feature request for the step sequencer that they believe is the one important missing feature. The problem is that LinnStrument has no dedicated user interface for the step sequencer, so this inherently prevents it from having many special-case features like the one you desire. For this reason, and because LinnStrument is not a step sequencer, I’m afraid it will never be your ideal step sequencer. Rather, LinnStrument is an expressive musical performance instrument-like a guitar or sax or violin- that happens to have a limited step sequencer as a bonus feature for occasional but limited use.
Sorry, no. The step sequencer is just a bonus feature of a musical instrument whose primary purpose is the skilled expressive performance of music as in a guitar or violin or sax or their modern expressive equivalent. To be honest, if all you’re looking for is step sequencing, you can do that with a far less expensive simple on/off switch controller. In LinnStrument, what you’re paying for is the highly sensitive polyphonic 3D touch sensing. Here’s one I found that looks very good and is only $399: polyend.com/seq-sequencer/
Garrett Becker -- its identical except the sequence note display area on the left is 8 columns wide instead of 16. Each sequence has 32 steps maximum, which is viewed a two 16-column pages on the large LinnStrument, or four 8-column pages on LinnStrument 128. You can see all the details on my site www.rogerlinndesign.com. Click Support menu > LinnStrument to get to the LinnStrument Support page, then click the Panel Settings button to see the Panel Settings page. Select the Sequencer tab and the information is all there.
Functionally and intuitively it seems like one of the nicer sequencers I've seen. it would be even more awesome if you had a decicated product for it. 16 tracks and an oled screen and lots of CV. it's a really cool product though.
Pete Horam Thanks, Pete. LinnStrument's main purpose is to bring the musically expressive performance gestures of fine acoustic instruments to electronic music, by virtue of its ability to capture subtle continuous finger gestures in three dimensions. The step sequencer is merely a convenient bonus feature, added mainly because many people see LinnStrument and think "It is a grid with lights so it must be a step sequencer, right?" If you're mainly interested in step sequencing, there are many simple on/off switch grid controllers that cost much less. Here's a page with videos that demonstrates LinnStrument's main purpose: www.rogerlinndesign.com/linnstrument.html
Sorry it isn't clearer, Chris. LinnStrument has a split keyboard mode, usually used to play a different sound on the left side than on the right side, but you can also play either split on the full playing surface. The way the sequencer is implemented is that each of these 2 splits has its own sequence, which plays out through the split's assigned MIDI channel settings. If the sequence is turned on in both splits, this has the effect of a 2-track sequencer, with the sequences of both splits playing simultaneously. You can learn more details on my site, rogerlinndesign.com. Click Support menu > LinnStrument, then click the "Panel Settings" button. In the Panel Settings page, click the "Sequencer" tab. I hope this answers your question.
sky watcher There are two tracks, each of which can have a separate loop length up to 32 steps, as well as a different playback rate (1/4, 1/8 or 1/16 notes; triplets, dotted or swing) in relation to the overall tempo. It turns out that different rates are more useful than different tempos, because the rates are musically related to each other, and changing the tempo changes all rates proportionally. This is normally how sequences work. Thank you for watching the video.
If this were a step sequencing product, that would be a fair comment because the controls on the right side are merely repurposed play pads with their labels located above them on the panel margins. However it’s not a step sequencing product, but rather an expressive musical performance instrument that senses 3 dimensions of finger movement plus velocity and release velocity, all polyphonically, for subtle performance control rivaling that of a violin, sax or guitar. This video is merely an explanation of the step sequencer feature, which is a minor side benefit. If you’d like to know what this instrument does, there are more videos at rogerlinndesign.com. If you’re only interested in step sequencing, you can pay far less for commodity on/off switch controllers that do that.
Because that video is one of many videos about specific aspects of LinnStrument’s functionality- in this case, this video is only about the Step Sequencer and nothing else. If you want to know more about LinnStrument, visit rogerlinndesign.com.
I suspect you intended to write “Gyp”, meaning “to defraud, swindle to cheat”. Instead you wrote “Jyp”, meaning either “Park Jin-young” (a Korean singer) or an organization called “Jewish Young Professionals”.
Decisions, decisions. :)
I just put a new FAQ on the LinnStrument FAQ page that may help:
Q: Can you help me decide between the larger LinnStrument model or the smaller LinnStrument 128 model?
A: The larger model gives you more flexibility for two-handed play, as well as more space to continue chords or single lines up into higher registers without switching to other rows. A good analogy would be the difference between playing a 24-fret and 15-fret guitar. You’d appreciate the freedom to continue melodic runs into the upper registers on the longer model, but the smaller model will more easily fit in your suitcase, not to mentioned being easier on the wallet.
Such a beautiful instrument. I'm actually on a hunt for a polyphonic 128+ step sequencer and that's how I came across the LinnStrument (Which I'm aware this is not intended as primarily a sequencer) but I would very much purchase this for the instrument that it is. Having said that and to my main point, you might want to consider design/manufacturing a primarily a 128 step sequencer vision of this. I think there's a real lack of anything like that in the market specially in the analog hardware synth scene.
Thanks for the suggestion, but I’m not in the on/off switch business. LinnStrument can be thought of as more like a violin or guitar or cello, not a sequencer or clip launcher. It’s playing surface may resemble an array of cheap lit switches, but it’s actually sensitive to fine 3-dimensional finger movements that allow it to capture all of your subtle vibratos, pitch bends, dynamic expression and timbral variations in real time, and polyphonically. That’s why it’s more expensive than the cheap on/off switch control surfaces on the market, and why using it as a step sequencer or clip launcher is really a waste of its expensive sensing technology. However, there are lots of companies making on/off switch control surfaces who would value your suggestion.
@@rogerlinndesign I do have to say that if the sequencing steps were increased this might replace the octatrack and Keystep in my setup - being both the main midi controller and a sequencer. (I'm saying this as a happy user of the Linnstrument 200 and I love the immediacy of the sequencer on it already)
Lots of brilliant little interactivity options. Good stuff.
This is extremely powerful, and quite elegant.
The fixation on the “on/off switches” seems to be a useful way to prevent scope creep, the Deluge for instance seems to throw everything and the kitchen sink into the mix, which makes the learning curve very steep.
While both approaches have their pros and cons both are still boutique devices. The users are niche with a wide range of use cases and enabling creators with useful features is what has made the Deluge so successful.
This LinnStrumentalist much prefers to have the choice not to use a feature rather than the manufacturer deciding that for him. The LinnStrument could easily be one of the best (and maybe First) MPE sequencers, for example being able record “3D expression” at each step when pressing the note. And, using up either the left or right split so I can go back to performing while the other split’s sequence is playing. That is if the LinnStrument has that much processing power.
Excellent Roger!
Hi ! Do you plan on improving the sequencer, especially regarding the step length limitation (having more than 32 steps) and more importantly the range (having more than the very very limiting 14 notes range) ? Or is it limited by the hardware ?
Sorry, no. The reason is that LinnStrument is not a sequencer but rather an expressive musical instrument whose primary function is to bring the performance expression of acoustic instruments to electronic sound. It happens to also includes a bonus feature: a simple step sequencer. But it has no dedicated controls for step sequencing, instead repurposing some of its play pads for sequencer controls, so it can never be the step sequencing you want it to be. Further, using it as a step sequencer is a waste of its expensive polyphonic 3D Touch sensing technology because step sequencing requires only cheap on/off switches. For this reason, people who are initially interested in using it primarily as a step sequencer usually don’t buy it when they learn that it costs $1499. I suggest you would be happier with a dedicated on/off switch step sequencer for much less money.
Is it possible to have a sequence going AND play over it in one of the more traditional performance modes?
Yes, if you play only one of the two sequencer tracks.
a scrolling sequence view, as any piano roll in a daw would be a nice addition. what i mean is scrolling through the entire sequence left to right, irrespective of the 'sequence bank' selected at any time.
Mircea Nicolae
I'm afraid you're confusing a DAW's piano roll view with a step sequencer. If the position were moving, you'd find it very difficult to press the intended step button while playing because by the time you press it, the intended step may have moved to the button next to it. That's why no hardware step sequencers scroll in real time, and if a DAW's piano roll is used for real time step entry, you must first turn off real time scrolling.
Also, step sequencing is merely a minor bonus feature of LinnStrument. It's main purpose is an expressive musical performance instrument, permitting subtle and continuous control of 3 dimensions of finger movement, polyphonically, as shown in other videos on my site, www.rogerlinndesign.com. If you're only interested in step sequencing, you needn't spend $1500 for LinnStrument's expensive 3D multitouch technology because you only need cheap on/off switches. And there are plenty of low-cost on/off switch grid controllers that will do step sequencing.
thanks for your reply. my interest in linnstrument is both for its sequencing and for its polyphony. i understand your point about sequencing vs piano roll playing mode. however, i see no reason why the piano roll view could not be inserted as an extra option. it is certainly very useful on the push 2, as it gives a dynamic view of the sequence. from my perspective, the strong argument for your proposal is that it is not associated with a given daw. in my case, i would be able to use linnstrument in studio one 3, which is the daw i use. at the time being, studio one 3 lacks a dedicated midi surface similar to the push. also, because the music i make is usually more than 16 steps, i would really find it useful to be able to view the entire sequence as it's playing, once it's dialed into the matrix.
Mircea Nicolae
In addition to the problem I identified, real time scrolling of LinnStrument's 32-step sequence wouldn't help you because its lit buttons can't display the position within the sequence as a computer screen can. And there are many other reasons that would become clear if you were to see such a feature implemented.
I understand that you want a dedicated control surface for your Studio One so that you can have the equivalent of Ableton Push. The problem is LinnStrument is not that and will never be. LinnStrument is an expressive and sensitive fine musical instrument, providing the subtle expression of guitar, violin or saxophone for the performance of electric sound, which happens to include a simple step sequencer. The confusion is that because of its stringed-instrument note layout, it resembles a low-cost on/off switch grid controller, so sometimes people are confused by the resemblance. No matter how much you wish it is a low-cost on/off switch grid controller, it is not and will not be.
this is beautiful
Found on thing funny, with the initial green "note" that was of a velocity lower than 96: Raised a few Questions:
1. Does it track velocity while "typing" the steps in? I always longed for step sequencer or arpeggiators that could track and record dynamics and repeat the dynamics to in a sequnce. Will put a more dramatic and rhythmic edge to it.
2. I've always wanted an arpeggiator/or step sequencer with a "guessing transposing function". Say I've set a pattern through some step sequncer/or arpeggiator. Now that pattern may or may not form a recognizable scale, but say, I ask it to "play in C major" it should do that, but whenever I press another pad, that note becoms the new root of the pattern of the sequencer, and follows the key it's in. Or if I transpose it, it would follow suit. If I press a pad/note that isn't in the scale determined, it may or may not shift. it may play a DIM chord or something like that, but split up in sequence/arpeggiator...I know it's a little bit too cheating, like some of the old home organs... ;-) but anyway...
Is this possible or only totally dependet on the receiving ends synth software? It hasn't very much to do with MPE and expression though, but since this has enormous expressive and touch sensitive qualities I thought this one would be the one that nailed it.
1. Yes, as well as X and Y pad position, just as in normal performance mode.
2. No.
I'm blown away! Since the day I saw this, Im gone crazy to buy this. Only issue is budget! Can the same step sequencing be done in 128 model as well? If yes, I'm wondering how as 128 version is limited in keys than 200 version!
There’s a helpful FAQ on my site. Please click the link below and read the FAQ “Can you help me decide between the larger LinnStrument model or the smaller LinnStrument 128 model?”
www.rogerlinndesign.com/support/support-linnstrument-faqs
One of my favorite aspects of the LS is being able to slide note and such. Is there a way to record the performance side of the LS live into the sequencer?
To iVardensphere:
Sorry, no. The Sequencer is a step sequencer with only 32 steps and does not record in real time.
Roger Linn Thanks Roger. \m/
What I really want to see is a video on STEP WRITING (SEQUENCING) the sounds of Superior Drummer 3 on a Linnstrument 200 (not 128) ... as I'm at the crossroads of the SEABOARD 49 and LINNSTRUMENT 200. Please help.
Thank you for your interest in LinnStrument. I’m afraid that it doesn’t matter which sound generator you use because it wouldn’t make any difference in how you use LinnStrument. LinnStrument is a MIDI controller that sends standard MIDI messages. And all drum sound generators receive the exact same MIDI messages. However, if you get a Seaboard, you won’t be able to this:
ruclips.net/video/HHWrSs8o1V4/видео.html
If you are using this to sequence external synths can you transpose the sequence on the fly from those synths or is it locked to the notes specified by the Linnstrument?
While playing back sequences from the internal step sequencer, using the Transpose function will transpose the playback of those sequences in real time.
@@rogerlinndesign Thanks Roger, just to clarify. The transpose function on the Linnstrument or transposing on the external gear itself? For example if I have a sequencer running into a Minimoog, could I transpose the sequencer by the Minimoog's own keyboard or would I have to transpose it from the Linnstrument itself?
I am speaking only about the LinnStrument’s built-in Step Sequencer and Transpose functions, sending MIDI out to your synthesizer.
Roger Linn I understand. Thanks.
Can you play notes live and also have the step sequencer running?
Yes. Each of the 2 keyboard splits has a sequencer associated with it, and either split may be used for either live play or sequence playback. For example, you can have both splits' sequences play for 2-track sequencing, or one split's sequencer playing back while using the other for live play.
Wow, a response from the inventor himself. Excellent, thank you so much!. Random question: I want to use Kontakt in Ableton. To get MPE, do I need to do the work around for both programs? As in 7 instances into Kontakt multi rack, fed into the separate ableton tracks for each poly voicing? The description for the ableton work around on the FAQ was confusing to me, and the screenshot didn't make it clear. I could be messing up the Kontakt side of it as well though. Perhaps a good candidate for a future video? Also one more thing: are CC parameters universal across all synths and DAW's?
Regarding Kontakt in Live, neither is MPE-compatible so yes you would need to kludge both Live and Kontakt. I don't think I'd make a video for this, but I don't think it's too difficult to download my example Live file (from the Recommended Sounds page) and alter it to your needs. Regarding universal CC parameters, I'm sorry but I don't know what you are asking.
Thanks. I'll figure all that out in due time. My linnstrument just came in, and I hooked it up to ableton. It recognizes linnstrument in the midi port area, but it is no where to be found in the control surface area. I rebooted the program with the controller already connected and it still doesn't show.
Hi Chris,
Thank you for buying a LinnStrument. Your connection in Ableton is correct in that it is a "MIDI port" in Ableton's terms, just as with any other MIDI keyboard. A "Control surface" in Ableton's terms in a recording interface with transport controls or a clip launcher, both of which LinnStrument is not.
Can the sequencer be synced to an external midi clock?
Yes. Just send it MIDI clock and it immediately syncs.
What DAW's will this work with?
Bitwig?
LinnStrument is a MIDI controller and sends standard MIDI. So it works with every MIDI synth or DAW in existence. The only caveat is that LinnStrument has a mode called Channel Per Note (also called MPE), which permits its 3-dimensional touch capture to be independent for each simultaneous touch, by sending each touch on a different MIDI channel. At this time only about 35 MIDI synths implement MPE, including all the synths in Logic and Bitwig and others listed on our site under LinnStrument page > "MPE/Expressive Sound Generators". However, if you're mainly interested in LinnStrument's Step Sequencer, there's no need for MPE mode so it works with every MIDI synth or DAW.
OK, so this isnt sequencing the notes in bitwig, it actually has its own internal sequencer, that you would sync with any DAW, is that right?
(yes, i have a RISE 25 & bitwig, familiar with MPE)
That particular video didn't use Bitwig but rather Logic's ESX24 sampler for both the guitar and drum sounds and nothing more. LinnStrument is a MIDI controller without internal sounds like Rise, but it also has a built-in step sequencer.
Brandon
I’m not familiar with Studio One 4 Pro, but MPE is MPE. There is no such thing as a Roli-specific variant of MPE. Also, there is no such thing as an MPE DAW. If a DAW passes all MIDI channels to the track (which nearly all do except for Ableton), then it is MPE compatible. MPE is nothing more than sending each note over a different MIDI channel.
Brandon
Thanks, Brandon. By the way, MPE isn’t necessary for LinnStrument and in fact, most LinnStrumetalists use regular one-channel synths. Please read the 4th FAQ on this page:
www.rogerlinndesign.com/ls-faqs.html
is there a way to disable a note by entering another note in a given step? In other words, to force the sequencer to be monophonic.
No, but it isn’t very difficult to tap the unwanted note to delete it.
@@rogerlinndesign it takes out the immediacy)
@Mr. Fedor
LinnStrument isn’t a step sequencer that rather an expressive, quality musical performance instrument that happens to include a Step Sequencer as an added bonus feature. If you’re looking to buy it as a step sequencer, it really isn’t worth the money because you’d be wasting its patented expressive polyphonic 5D touch surface. If all you need is a step sequencer, you can use any cheap on/off switch controller and save a lot of money.
@@rogerlinndesign I already have 128, and having a monophonic mode in the step sequencer would make so much sense)
You’d be surprised by how many people have a different feature request for the step sequencer that they believe is the one important missing feature. The problem is that LinnStrument has no dedicated user interface for the step sequencer, so this inherently prevents it from having many special-case features like the one you desire. For this reason, and because LinnStrument is not a step sequencer, I’m afraid it will never be your ideal step sequencer. Rather, LinnStrument is an expressive musical performance instrument-like a guitar or sax or violin- that happens to have a limited step sequencer as a bonus feature for occasional but limited use.
is it possible to chain several projects and play them on the fly in order to extend the length of 32 steps ?
Sorry, no. The step sequencer is just a bonus feature of a musical instrument whose primary purpose is the skilled expressive performance of music as in a guitar or violin or sax or their modern expressive equivalent. To be honest, if all you’re looking for is step sequencing, you can do that with a far less expensive simple on/off switch controller. In LinnStrument, what you’re paying for is the highly sensitive polyphonic 3D touch sensing.
Here’s one I found that looks very good and is only $399:
polyend.com/seq-sequencer/
It's 1299 EUR for the sequencer. If you want a very good poly sequencer then go for the Squarp Pyramid witch costs €590 or $690
www.squarp.store/
Oops. I guess the 399 was for their expansion module. But the Squarp does seem like a good value for step sequencing.
Roger, can you change the global tuning for instruments so that say A=432Hz rather than 440 ?
There is no global tuning, so you'd have to do that in your sound generator.
Roger Linn okay mate cheers
Genius !
How does the sequencer layout work on the smaller 128?
Garrett Becker -- its identical except the sequence note display area on the left is 8 columns wide instead of 16. Each sequence has 32 steps maximum, which is viewed a two 16-column pages on the large LinnStrument, or four 8-column pages on LinnStrument 128. You can see all the details on my site www.rogerlinndesign.com. Click Support menu > LinnStrument to get to the LinnStrument Support page, then click the Panel Settings button to see the Panel Settings page. Select the Sequencer tab and the information is all there.
Ok that makes sense, Thanks for the quick reply!
This looks really cool. It's only 2 track though?
Pete Horam
Yes that's correct, Pete. One uses the assignments of the left split and the other uses the assignments of the right split.
Functionally and intuitively it seems like one of the nicer sequencers I've seen. it would be even more awesome if you had a decicated product for it. 16 tracks and an oled screen and lots of CV. it's a really cool product though.
Pete Horam
Thanks, Pete. LinnStrument's main purpose is to bring the musically expressive performance gestures of fine acoustic instruments to electronic music, by virtue of its ability to capture subtle continuous finger gestures in three dimensions. The step sequencer is merely a convenient bonus feature, added mainly because many people see LinnStrument and think "It is a grid with lights so it must be a step sequencer, right?" If you're mainly interested in step sequencing, there are many simple on/off switch grid controllers that cost much less. Here's a page with videos that demonstrates LinnStrument's main purpose:
www.rogerlinndesign.com/linnstrument.html
You probably explain it somewhere else, but I don't understand "left split" and "right split"
Sorry it isn't clearer, Chris. LinnStrument has a split keyboard mode, usually used to play a different sound on the left side than on the right side, but you can also play either split on the full playing surface. The way the sequencer is implemented is that each of these 2 splits has its own sequence, which plays out through the split's assigned MIDI channel settings. If the sequence is turned on in both splits, this has the effect of a 2-track sequencer, with the sequences of both splits playing simultaneously. You can learn more details on my site, rogerlinndesign.com. Click Support menu > LinnStrument, then click the "Panel Settings" button. In the Panel Settings page, click the "Sequencer" tab. I hope this answers your question.
Thanks Roger. I'm sure it will be more clear after I purchase my LinnStrument. But now that there is a "mini" I have to decide which one.
Pourquoi faire simple quand on peut faire compliqué !
should be a dream to have a real polyrhythmic sequencer :) a loop line in 5, another in 7, etc.... ( even with different tempos /res)
the way to loop steps before the 16th is a good start ( as u did in 5)
sky watcher
There are two tracks, each of which can have a separate loop length up to 32 steps, as well as a different playback rate (1/4, 1/8 or 1/16 notes; triplets, dotted or swing) in relation to the overall tempo. It turns out that different rates are more useful than different tempos, because the rates are musically related to each other, and changing the tempo changes all rates proportionally. This is normally how sequences work.
Thank you for watching the video.
looks confusing
If this were a step sequencing product, that would be a fair comment because the controls on the right side are merely repurposed play pads with their labels located above them on the panel margins. However it’s not a step sequencing product, but rather an expressive musical performance instrument that senses 3 dimensions of finger movement plus velocity and release velocity, all polyphonically, for subtle performance control rivaling that of a violin, sax or guitar. This video is merely an explanation of the step sequencer feature, which is a minor side benefit. If you’d like to know what this instrument does, there are more videos at rogerlinndesign.com. If you’re only interested in step sequencing, you can pay far less for commodity on/off switch controllers that do that.
@@rogerlinndesign Weird, if its a musical performance instrument they why does the title say different.
Because that video is one of many videos about specific aspects of LinnStrument’s functionality- in this case, this video is only about the Step Sequencer and nothing else. If you want to know more about LinnStrument, visit rogerlinndesign.com.
@@rogerlinndesign so im not entitled to my opinion?
Yes, you certainly are. I was merely attempting to help you have an informed opinion.
What a jyp
I suspect you intended to write “Gyp”, meaning “to defraud, swindle to cheat”. Instead you wrote “Jyp”, meaning either “Park Jin-young” (a Korean singer) or an organization called “Jewish Young Professionals”.