Recommendations for controller for softsynths

[zenesh]

Hi all,

I need recommendations for controllers for softsynths?

I have just downloaded some free softsynths and the sound was great. I really enjoyed playing and toying with them, something that I have not done in quite a while.

Currently, I am using an old Roland epiano to provide midi in for the softsynths and the mouse for the rest. It was terrible to control all the softsynth "knobs" with the mouse therefore I am looking for a controller to do those.

I intend to use the softsynths to learn about various ways to synthesize "sounds" and just have fun with them. I do play in church group so it be good if the controller can be used live too.

From my Googling around, the novation zero sl, behringer bcf2000, korgk49 seems to be candidates. Any recommendations anyone? will these enable me to modify settings and learn how to use synthesizers?

 

[alshit]

I think novation is kinda the king in these areas, their built are super solid and you really feel the quality just by touching them alone. Next would be the M-audio axiom series, which IMO are very good performance controller.

 

[aireydon]

yup.. i second novation as a controller. or if u want solid built keys for yr softsynths....CME seems to have a great solid keybed with a cool black and red metal casing..

 

[zenesh]

Thanks for the replies.

I will check up the novation and M-audio at sinimax.

From harmony central reviews, it seems that CME has certain problems with drivers.


How easy is it to map the controls of the softsynths to the keyboard? No need to program at all, just load the softsynth and good to go? or must configure each individual button/knob or fader?

 

[Cheez]

Reviews from Harmony Central are old. Current CME are not bad, as reported. And if you are concerned about drivers, you can always do it the old fashion way - midi cables instead of the built-in USB.

 

[zenesh]

Where can we take a look at the CME controllers models?

Just a side track, would you recommend a softsynth or a hardsynth for someone like me who is interested to learn about subtractive synthesis?

 

[alshit]

I would recommend hardware synth if you can afford it, a Roland SH-201 is a good one to start for beginners. It's got nicely arranged interface so its really easy for you to navigate through.