vArranger Forums

Hi Dan
Congratulations

Lionel
You are a softy at heart.

Bernie

Jon
I have used my extension adaptor you describe and it works fine.
Bernie

Merry Christmas to you and yours also.
Bernie

Leon
I think you are coming along quite well with vArranger.  Stay with it.
Bernie

Still waiting for the save transpose for Karaoke files.

Bernie

Very good Lionel
Bernie

Hey, better than before.  Thanks Dan

Does this mean I can now use my Nord Electro in addition to the vArranger program ? I wanted to control chord input with either.

I have EMS Universal and wonder what difference there would be if I converted Yamaha syles to Ketron, as opposed to your Yamaha style support.
Bernie

Dan
I must have tried a couple of bad ones, but can't remember which they were.  No matter, I have thousands and the ones I tried this time work great.
As long as most play well, I don't care.  If I run into the bad ones, will send them.

All in all. I am most delighted with your progress.
Thanks
Bernie

Thanks, Pascal

I found that .891 contains the fix for double lyrics and is so much better.  The new .91 revision that plays Yamaha styles, messes up the lyrics as before.

The addition of Yamha Styles is great.  No problem loading and playing them.  However, when I try to substitute a Yamaha style in one of my favorite songs, the "Song" entry is not available, just the "Sound", in the Save tab.

Also, I find the controller doesn't work in the "Intro" and "Ending" when I load a Yamaha style. 

A thought just ocurred to me that Live styler and others play Yamaha styles because they are midi and don't need the SD2.  Of course, the SD2 is far superior to a PC sound card, but from a business stand point, vArranger is better than Livestyler, but needs an SD2.

I am just wondering if you couldn't sell a lot more vArrangers with an option of playing Yamaha styles without the SD2.  The only criticism I've heard is the double cost of the program and SD2.

Just a dumb thought

Hooray for Dan

Thank you for the report, Lionel.  It appears that the shortcomings were due to the previous size and feel of the Privia.  In my case, it sounds good.

So it is.  Thanks Dan

My Axiom is okay, but short a few controllers and the feel of the keybed is sloppy.  Before I buy a new one, I wondered if the Korg Nano, or any other auxillary keypad is suitable.  The reason I am asking, is that I have a Roland P-80 with a nice feel but few controllers.

Lionel
I know you had a Nano and bought a Roland.  How is it ?

Dan
You try very hard to please everyone.  What a job.

Dan
You are always on top of any problems.  They are in the mail.
Bernie

I have a new problem with Lyrics in my MidiKaraoke files.  vArranger lyrics show over the existing lyrics, making it impossible to read.  This happens on Tune 1000 files, that are supposed to be the benchmark.  I don't remember that happening in former builds.

Anyone else have this problem ?  I will send Dan a sample if not known.

Lionel
Since you asked, I find the font size fine.

Thank you, Brian, for a most informative reply.  I will try iy.
Bernie

Sorry, I jumped the gun.  I see there is no voice on left hand lower.  I guess there are but two sounds available( excluding combi's).

Hi Brian
I would like to have the same set up, with L+R organ on the bottom, and sound bar options on the top keyboard.  Now we are getting somewhere.

Bernie

I know you and Lionel use two keyboards, but don't know how to hook them up and use them.  Can anyone help ?
Bernie

Hi Brian
Very nice job on one of my favorites.  I might try two keyboards.
Bernie

It will take me a while to understand procedure, but I sure can use that.  I can now use MP3's and display lyrics.  Also, many of my midifiles don't stream lyrics well, so I can just search for the song and have the lyrics attached.

When do you sleep, Dan ?  You are on fire since you came back from holiday.

Being able to create "User Sounds" adds a whole new dimension to the program.  WOW, even I am excited now.

Way to go Dan

Thanks for your patience, Dan.  I should be okay now.

Thank you for your prompt reply and consideration.  It sounds like I would want to put my L2 sound in one of the Right tracks.  Now, if I can figure out how to assign it to the L2 track.  The other thing that comes to mind is which controller would change the volume.

I am working on a set up for my band.  I don't need a style at all.  I want drawbars and strings on my left, and be able to control the volumes and Leslie speed.

I am saving to a regular Ketron Style called Orch Slow.  I add the L2 voice(Digistrings) and save song.  When I hit save, the L2 sound disappears from the track.

As far as being able to control Leslie speed in left hand, is there any way to add a controller for a momentary switch pedal, or anything ?  I play a lot of left hand organ with my sounds.

I can't seem to save left 2.  I am not sure if it is implemented or not.  Also, my mod wheel does not change Leslie speed and I don't see the controller under options.

Hi Lionel
That is the controller I almost bought.  The keybed on a Roland is the best, and with 50 slots, you will have it made.  My Axiom doesn't have as many and the feel is not as good, but I can't justify another keyboard yet.

Let us know how it does.
Bernie

He is one innovative man, that's for sure.  That is way above my ability.  I, also, need my switch for my Roland so I wouldn't tear it up.

Please explain what a joystick or ketron pedal could control.  I have always used pedals for hands free playing, but want to know what your idea is.

In watching the video, I see where it could be used, but I don't seem to be able to relate it to vArranger use, like the Ketron FC-6 pedal.  I have a Roland FC-7 pedal that is identical to the FC-6 with one more controller.  When you implement pedal use, I will try mine, or buy another.

I rather thought so, since SD2 has only one output.  It can be done on regular midi keyboards, but I see the difference.
Thanks

I want to add my Nord Electro to my Axiom 61.  How do I make it send the left hand chords played in vArranger, as well as the Axiom ?

In other words, I want to be able to play the left hand with either keyboard and have vArranger receive the chord data on the accompaniment.

Thanks Dan.  I have it

I need to permanently lower one of my sounds one octave and leave the rest as is, and save in My Sounds.

Brian
Please tell me why you record in MP3, the midifile.  Am I to assume that you are not speaking of midikar files that display lyrics ?  There are some midi's I play and sing over, and some just play.  What can I do in MP3 I can't do with midi ?

On my other keyboards, I can recall a midi with the full registration saved with it.  If I need a lead sheet for a song I haven't memorized, I use my notation/chord/ or lyric display on the keyboard, or use Musicpap Pro.

I will eventually rely more on vArranger when I can do more.
Bernie

These requests are not made thinking they are easy tasks, even wondering if they can be added at all.  After all, the programs that do this are very mature(old), and are job specific.  They do a limited number of tasks, and hopefully, do them well.

Here we have Dan already incorporating many fine features in one program, at a relatively rapid rate.

I applaud Dan for steadily working to make vArranger a premier app.  I am beginning to see more and more reference to vArranger on various sites.

Hi Lionel
Yes, reducing volume to 0 in melody track is the same,   assuming it saves as described. I have a deep voice and many tunes need to be lowered to -2.  Some of the songs I sing do not involve playing(Karaoke), while others involve muting(or nil) more than one track and playing over it, and singing.

http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=BernieA1000&aq=f

Hi Lionel old chap
I look in everyday.  I don't want to stir the pot too much while Dan is busy with improvements.

I like the fact that Dan is continuing to improve the save registration area.  I still can't use the karaoke player, as it won't save muted tracks and transpose like VanBasco.

In the meantime, I am using the tools I have to use for my needs, not implying that this is not a good program.  I just can't use it all the time.

That is great, Dan
I know it takes a lot of work, but saving the desired set up is the most important task, in my opinion.  Little by little, you are accomplishing that task.

That sounds real good.  I have a Musicpad Pro with hundreds of tunes in PDF format.  How hard would it be to convert to another format for vArranger ?

Sounds good Dan.  I had no idea what the F1-F10 keys were for. I am happy tp find that out.

Dan
Please don't misunderstand me.  I expect nothing out of the ordinary from you.  These other programs have been out for years, and I think you are doing a remarkable job.  It is just that I have to perform several times a week using the only tools I have.  I am very happy with your program and expect to use it exclusively for some gigs as time goes by.  Some midikar files play well on vArranger and some don't.

Is there a way to use both programs from the SD2 at the same time.  I had been using VanBasco for my Midi's because I can save transpose and mute in playlists.  At least for now, vArranger doesn't seem to have these capabilities for Midifiles.  I have tried using both programs from the SD2 port.  Sometimes both work, but usually they fight each other for the port, sooner or later.

When I mute a track for a Midifile and load any style song, the track remains muted.  Not good.  The transpose seems to go back to 0.

Dan
I think the SD2 handles Latin pretty well.  You might think about Desafinado or Girl from Ipanema.

That's what I figured.  It is no big thing for now.  Many improvements have been made in a short time.  Thanks, Dan, for the great strides you have already made.

Thanks Dan
In the meantime, I am putting in the track number and transposition in the title so I can, at least, keep track of what changes I have to make when I pull up the song.

I need advice on how to arrange my Midi's in the song bar.  Let us say I have twenty five song styles named already on the bar.  I add a folder called Karaoke.  In that folder are several Midi's.  Now, say I want to create sub folders of country, 70's etc. . The sub folders won't show up, so I delete the sub folder to make the Midi's show on the left pane.

Is it correct that I have to make separate folders and put them on the bar.  In other words, instead of having one Karaoke folder, I have to have "Country, "70's", etc. ?

How do you save track mute and transpose changes on Midi's ?

It looks like the most imortant parts are done.  Very good,Dan.  Will report later.

That would be good.  I know you mentioned that you had made some good sounds by combining tracks. That would be of great benefit if you have made it so all sounds can be saved.

My biggest problem in live work is not being able to use combinations because I can't recall them.

Hi Dan
Glad it went well.  What kind of keyboard are you using.  I am looking forward to the next revision with saving sounds.

Hi Tidom
I am glad I wasn't the only one having trouble.  I am glad you got it straightened out.
Bernie

Hi Dan
That was what I was going to do, but quit being stubborn and changed the left voices to a sound that fit the octave.  For example, where I needed a +1 for a left orgjazz 2, I put in an accordian, which fits the 0 octave.

I am hoping that as I add songs with the desired octave in the first place, all will be okay.  I have all my songs working and couldn't tell you what is wrong.

Thanks

Sorry Dan

The way I said it might have confused you.

I do not want to change octaves in the middle of a song.  I want to permanently change the left track down or up one octave, and maybe change a sound.

Let's say I had an accordian on the left at 0 and I wanted to PERMANENTLY change to Organjazz2 at +1.  I first change the otave on the left track to +1 and press save startup config..

Sometimes it will stay at +1 when I exit, after saving config, sometimes it is back to 0

Now, in regards to saving song, I assume if you do not change sounds, but just track octave, saving song is not necessary, but if I were to change any sounds along with octave, I would save both.

Let's make this real simple, as I have spent hours just trying to do one simple thing.  I have deleted .pat2 and then .pat 1 and 2 as a last resort.

I am ready to trash the whole thing and start over.  It is like some data is remaining to change the octave back to original.

The only problem I have with the program is this.  I don't want to start out again with a new datarranger as I would lose all my work.

I still am having trouble with keeping the left handtrack at the octave I set it at.  It is okay until I reset.  Change left track, save startup config, save song,

I copied my data file and vArranger from laptop to main pc.  No change

This time I deleted .pat1 and two and saved it as new.  That should work if I don't change it.

Forget the last post.  Some of my songs refuse to change octaves upon a rest.

Dan
I think I solved the problem I was having with my Left octave change.  I went into the file and deleted the .pat2 and then saved the new config.  Apparently I cannot make those changes in the existing one.  It suites me as I don't change it again anyway.

I do not feel qualified as a lead man, but perhaps edit English content.

Since you guys know the program better than I, I may fall overboard at the getgo.  However, I am confident I will be recued.

If there is anything I can help with, let me know.

Dan
Thank you for your kind attention to my problem, however, I will receive another laptop in a couple of days.  My netbook is not set up to go online.  Let me see what I can do, and I will maybe take you up on your offer.

That sounds wonderful, but I still can't overcome the octave problem for left hand.

I have a song saved with no octave change .  I want to raise it by one octave.  I darken left hand in Master, then change my octave.  I switch back to right on Master for startup config.  Save startup config.  I sometimes save Song too for good measure.

I exit program to see if really saved, and no, it's not.
I am using 0.72ver.

It is probably something dumb, but I can't solve it.

You have solved by biggest problem of saving octave changes.  No wonder it wouldn't save in "Song" folder.

Regarding the Master presets, I don't know anything about this.  I have noticed on occasion that the right three tracks automatically are loaded, but don't know why or how.

Sometimes I need to fine tune the accompaniment, change the bass, or lower or raise volumes.  Will this come in the future ?

I will try later on to take my field recorder to my band gig, to get you a sonic example of how good I(vArranger) sounds.

You are doing a great job, and, as Lionel say, it is hard to keep track of changes, and even know everything the program can do.  On the other hand, if it means taking time away from your complete save project, I, for one, will muddle through and let you complete that.  To me, having the ability to save my settings throughout, is of primary importance.

I can't help but to draw a comparison between the rapid developement of vArranger and slow pace of Livestyler.  I am thinking of selling a couple of my arrangers.

Thanks Dan

Dan
On the new version you said that you had made the requested changes and fixed some bugs.  The problem is, since you were not specific, I don't know a bug from an unfinshed refinement.  It is also possible that I am doing something wrong.

I will list some things and you can tell me the status.

1. The left hand is set to Oct +1.  I want to lower it to 0.  I change while left hand track is red, then change to right track and save.  No change.

2. Have you made it so other track volumes and instruments can be saved yet ?

3. What is the relationship between track 9(left 1) and "Left' on the right.  Which one do you adjust to save ?

The whole point is, that eventually we will be able to save all volumes and sounds, and I don't know how far along you are.  I don't want to tear my hair out trying to do something the program is not capable of.

I took vArranger out for the first time to my band dance Monday.  This is a sixteen pc band and, of course I didn't need any styles.  I loaded 10 instrumets in my Band folder and was ready to fill in with any instrument needed.

I want to report that, not only, it played without a problem, but SD2 sounds were startling to others, because of their quality and the ability to cut throught the mix.  On every song we have 4 verses.  I back up on three and solo one.

I have three top of the line arrangers and a Kurweil work station.  None can beat the sound of the SD2 and vArranger.

Today I go to my two hour show with vArranger, loaded with songs and styles.  I love the latest version, Dan.  I am happy to save key changes and control Leslie sim.  I have to manually set left hand, but that's okay.

How are we getting on with saving other voice and volume paramiters besides left and right 1 ?

Thanks for all the work, Dan.  Will give it a spin.

I know delay is not reverb, and maybe was an inaccurate comparison.  What I meant was, the delay set at that fraction of ms is much too pronounced.  It produces an echo.

The default effect "Delay" is too much reverb.  At least it is using my Bose L1 and Compact on a dancefloor.  What are your thoughts ?  It is a small matter that can worked around, but I happened to think of it.

Great musicians think alike, but the difference is,  you also are great at writing software.  Ah well, one out of two ain't bad.

Yes, the Tab.  I use it on both now,no problems

WOW, great news Dan.  Many keyboards handle it this way.  Thank you !

Hi Dan
I wonder if, while you are working on settings other than left and right sounds, etc., you could include "Transpose".  I sing a lot of my songs and have to lower the key sometimes.  Some of my music requires sheet music and it is sometimes hard to play in another key to match my voice while sight reading the original.

For what it's worth, I bought an E-Mu 1x1 and it works perfectly with my win7 pc.

Dan
I am very happy you can make this change.  I agree that losing reverb with the Leslie is unfortunate.  My Nord doesn't have reverb, but I handle that with reverb on my mixer.  In this case, I need the reverb in my mixer only for Leslie sounds.  Maybe I can have the bypass on until I need it for Leslie, and turn it off with Leslie, giving me mixer reverb, at least.

At any rate, you have proven once again that you listen to our needs.  Thank you Dan.

Some wonderful features have been added, and I am like the program more all the time, except for an annoyance in selecting the Leslie speed and drawbar presets.  I admit to being an organ man and it may not bother some, but everytime I change a drawbar preset, it goes back to chorus.  It would be better to have a fast and slow choice, then have a controller to toggle, or use a switch pedal.

As we all know, the SD2 has some incredible sounds including the drawbars.  I don't know about France, but in the U.S., the Hammond sound is big business.  Between the native sounds of the SD2 and vArranger we are going to have a killer program and improving the control of the drawbars, I think is important.

Trouble in paradise, maybe.  Wheras it works for the most part, I am getting strange notes in the accompaniment and the #9 left track is playing a different sound than is indicated on the track screen, and it does not respond to volume change.

I move over to the netbook with Midi interface and it works perfectly.  I am going to have to specifically A/B the same style and settings to be sure.

After turning on "Midi Out to USB", which I didn't know about, the Axiom is working fine without a Midi interface.

Life is great again.

Thanks Dan

That is great news.  The ability to save all of the components of your set up and the ability to pull it up fast is most important.

I had no hopes of you doing all this.  Most exciting.

For the masses, I agree.  Midi Karaoke would be for important for musicians.

Okay, I'll try it again and send number.  I notice that you use an Emu Xmidi 1 and it has a Win 7 driver.  Why then do you use a Midi interface rather than straight USB.  Is that what you would recommend ?

I am using a MidiSport 2x2 with an Axiom USB and Midi controller on my XP Netbook and everything is fine.  The problem arises when I try and use my Win 7 pc.  M-Audio no longer supports this interface and has no Win 7 driver.

My Sweetwater rep tells me the Axiom is USB and as long as I install the Win 7 driver for it, it should work without an interface.

I attach Midi out of Axiom to SD2 and USB from Axiom to my pc, and boot vArranger from dongle.  The black screen which says "loading" came up.  The port screen came up and I chose USB device, then nothing.  I tried repeatedly and it would not boot.  I am thinking a Midi interface is necessary afterall.

Please advise

I have been thinking of how I can file songs with the appropriate styles.  The problem with using folders, for one thing, is the double .pats.  If I put a song in a separate folder(with it's own config file), like on my other keyboards, and add a "finder", the problem would be solved.  The problem is your interface is not set up to handle a couple of hundred songs in that manner.

For a few songs, it would be simple for me to go into the arrangedata file/style/Rom and make up some folders, but I don't know how many folders can be put on the "My Songs" bar.  In the absence of a "finder"(search), they could be arranged alphabetically per your previous post.

My left track 1 is not saving correct sound change by changing track 9.  To accomplish this, I have to change it over on the right in the "Left" column.  Is this the intended method ?

Is this the intended method

I totally agree.  In software, there are two categories of problems.  One is premature release of features that load up an app and have known limited functionality, and the other is normal bugs.

The first can be avoided by making sure the feature is released only after careful consideration of the necessity by users and that all elements are working as far as the designer knows.

Bugs, unfortunately, will always be present in any new software.  There are so many different paramiters and combinations that only field testing will bring to light.

This is why Dan, wisely asks for feedback, not only with desired features, but input of any problems that arise.  I admire Dan for trying to create a major program without a team of programers and a huge group of beta testers.

I know we are ready to stand behind Dan and help in what little way we can.

Thanks Dan

I can't expect your program to be all things to all people, but you seem to want it to, which would be great.  It might be a tall order though.

On the other hand, since you are including Midifiles, we have to look at what musicians do with them.
1. Break music
2. Play over
3. Sing over

Except break music, mute and key change is necessary.  I will send the converted files and the original, but you won't be able to open it without a link(I will provide), which is a free program to play only.

Man you're good

yes, all my programs save mute and key change.  I could very easily change these before I load them if I had a non proprietory program that would not interfere with vArranger.  Also, the melody is not always on track 4 and I couldn't be sure before it started playing.

Dan
Whenever you consider a change in the interface, you might consider  permanent numbers being placed in "My Sounds".  If I need a quick change and there are 8 to 10 sounds, I need to count over.  I have my sounds numbered on my controller and and it would be much faster to see #6 and hit it on the controller.

No problem muting melody track, but it won't save that way.  Is it supposed to ?  I mute the track, save song, exit program, and reboot

I have the Midi folder in place. Now I have a new problem.  If I use a Tune 1000 Midi Karaoke file and it works except I want to mute the melody to sing over.  Normally, I would use MidiNotate or MidiIlustrator to open it and have the program make a sing a long, or lead sheet and mute the melody.

Two problems.  One is how can I mute the melody track without opening it in one of my two programs, because if I do, it doesn't sound right in Arranger.  That leads me to the next problem which is, I have about two thousand Karaoke files in one of the two formats.  I am not blaming vArranger, as it is probably the programs are not exporting  the files to Midi correctly.

If I do want some Midi's in vArranger, how do I mute the melody.  It is a shame as really like the way you set it up with text or scrolling Karaoke.

I see the songs that are in "My Songs",Data Arranger/styles Rom/ My Songs.  I had made a folder called Latin, in the same folder that doesn't show.  I wanted to try a midi Karaoke file, but can't remember how to get a Midi Folder to show.

I quess I don't get how the file structure works so it will show on the interface.

I am using PowerKaraoke for CDG
http://www.powerkaraoke.com/src/prod_powercdgplayerpro.php
and Notate Composer for Midi

http://www.notation.com/NotationComposer.php

That would sure help, Dan.  Will do

I know we all see the great potential, and saving complete registration is important. However, knowing this is long tedious work, it will be worth the wait.  You have made great progress Dan.

I have a question along those lines.  In addition to styles, I too use midi files and MP3, but I use CD&G loaded to my hardrive. Since I have to use another program, should I be able to minimize vArranger and play CD&G in another window without interferering with vArranger ?  There has been times I would go back to the arranger window and it was non responsive, and I would have to reboot.

I am just wondering whether to avoid multiple windows when all can't be done on vArranger.

Yes of coarse, I forgot you have to assign it.  It works great.  Thanks

Sorry, I meant the bar above it.  You have a neat split window and a left hand start and stop.  What is the right arrow and the slidable bar.

Is there any way to assign cc7 or volume to a volume pedal of the master keyboard to control master volume ?

Please explain the use of the voice bar at the top of the latest version.  Also, when in the effects edit window, how to you change the values, that is, is there a controller you use to change a parameter from 64

Nevermind, I finally open'd drawbar window, and then it worked.

Fast and slow mutes all sound. Off, chorus, delay OK.  Nothing in effects edit seemed changed.  As a matter of fact, what changes the values from 64.  I mean what controller.

Dan
That's fine, but I am getting .pat 1 and 2 of every title.  One is like 15KB and the other is about 1KB.  I assumed that this was a config file, but it messy to keep two of each.

I copied a blank config setting folder to a new datafolder and renamed it.  Now, how can I get the program to get the proper shortcut when I load it ?  In other words, I want to point the programs to the proper datafile.  The favorite sounds etc, can be the same.  The controller sliders and knobs will be the only thing to change.

I guess I need mulpiple sets of config settings in Arranger Data folder.

I have several boards like Nord Electro 2 that I am experimenting with for use with vArranger.  The question is how to build controller assignments separate from my Axiom.  I would think I would make a separate folder, but am not sure how.

Thank you Dan.  Your explanation helps a lot.

Bernie

I guess I am newer at this than most and have to ask some basic questions.

I have my controls in hand, can load styles and make folders in the Data Folder.  I can manually choose what sounds I want in the left and right hand tracks.

What I can't do is save all of my sounds together with the Song name.  In other words, I might want piano on left and piano, sax, and trumpet on the right.  I change my right hand sounds my manipulating the volume controls so I can layer or change sounds completely.  I may be doing something wrong, but only one left and one right is saved.

If the program cannot do this, fine, but I don't know how to change sounds any other way without a delay.

The other thing is "dragging sounds to the bar".  Please explain this.

Thanks for any help you can give to an old software impaired musician.

Bernie

That's good news Dan.  It looks like you are on a roll.
Bernie

Hi Lional

First off is my thanks to Dan for trying to include features wanted by the members.  I use harmony to fatten up sounds on occasion, but my closed end boards have six or more harmony options.

It might be nice to have if Dan does not have more important features planned, and if it does not make the program too complex.

Of course, this is just one opinion.  I think it would be nice to have more input from other members, as to needed features, and have Dan put out some ideas for future expansion.

Bernie

This is what I envisioned all along.

I am eagerly waiting for that too, but I know it takes time.  In the end, we will have an amazing piece of software.

Hi Lionel
Looking good, and glad the Nano worked out for you.

Bernie

Hi Lionel
Carillon has been in business for ages, but have not tried them.

Lionel
I guess Dan doesn't allow links.  Just Google Stylediskwarehouse.com and look for Solton-Ketron.  The ones that I bought from them for other keyboards have been excellent.

Bernie

Hi Lionel
Carillon is good, and so is Styledisk

http://www.stylediskwarehouse.com/solton.htm

Thanks a lot, Dan.  I will try it out
Bernie

In short, I would like to control the accompaniment chords while playing styles on my left hand with either keyboard.

The organ controller is an Edirol PC-80.  It has a good quality keybed, but few physical controllers.  It is connected to a Muse Receptor, in which I have the NI B4 software for the Hammond organ sound.

If I have to, I can perhaps do without a  controlling the LH chords on the Axiom61, but its controllers are needed to control volumes, etc.  The Edirol has Midi out and USB.  The Axiom has in and out and USB, No thru.  Of course, it would be easy to keep the split on the Axiom and not have a split on the organ, but the loss of LH organ from my Receptor would not be good.

As a last resort, I could play LH organ from the SD2 on the vArranger and RH receptor if the other methods are not practical.

Hi Dan

There are times I want to play full organ(L&R).  There are other times I want L organ and R sax.
Other times, L strings and R piano. All with accomp.

How else would I accomplish this ?

I have vArranger, controlled by an Axiom61, an organ module controlled by a Roland controller.  I use a Midisport 2x2 interface for the vArranger and the laptop.

What I want to do is use both controllers, and have control of the left hand chords in style play with either keyboard.

Bernie

Thanks Lionel, I know Dan is working on this and eventually it will come.

Good idea, Dan

Lionel
Aside from the 3rd port question to Dan, the first consideration is the physical attributes.  The Nano has no keybed and is small, but will control the needed functions.  The Axiom61 will do both control functions and play sounds.  I think it depends on the Privia being needed or not.
Bernie

Lionel

Can you save even basic instruments with style ?

Dan
Let me know when it is done.

Bernie

Hi Dan
Yes, the Axiom Pro is better, but at over $500 it better be.  Thanks, My Axiom is good enough.

Lional
I can see why you would want to keep the Privia.  That leaves the small auxiliary controllers like Korg Nanokontrol.  It sure is a possibility at less than $50.

You might want to look at the two videos.

http://www.google.com/search?sourceid=navclient&aq=4&oq=korg+nano&ie=UTF-8&rlz=1T4ADFA_enUS351US351&q=korg+nanokontrol+review

Hi Lionel
I am using the Axiom 61
http://www.guitarcenter.com/M-Audio-Axiom-61-61-Key-USB-MIDI-Controller-103573630-i1154832.gc

I find it has more than enough controls and works fine, although I would prefer a firmer keybed.

Hi Lional
I bet it is a good sound. It looks like the Privia is the weak link, as any controller keyboard would have all the sliders and buttons to assign to volume and everything else.

Since there is no "Save As", couldn't you go into the data file and rename and/or make new files ?

I only have a trial version that doesn't save anything, but it seems I noticed the "Load" button takes you wherever you went last.  This way, it seems, you can do whatever you want.  I am sure Dan will get back with the final word.

I see you play guitar and the wife plays keyboard.  How do you hook up two, and does the Privia control anything  ?  I am trying to get a picture of the role the Privia plays.  I mean, is the Privia Midie'd to the vArranger and playing SD2 sounds ?

Hi Lionel
I use converted styles, as well as native on my three arranger keyboards.  I am going to buy vArranger when Dan finishes some needed features.  I have to have my setups saved, like left and right hand assignments, style etc., so I can make presets by song and load them from a playlist.

Bernie

Hi Lionel
The inherent problem with software based programs is fast and easy midi control.  While Dan's program is the easiest and most intuitive I have seen, it may still take an external controller to access all parameters.  While the Privia is a great keyboard for the money, it is not meant to be a full controller. 

Dan is certainly a wizard in what he does and, for all I know, come up with something on the pc keyboard.  If he doesn't, you might have to go with an external unit like:

http://www.guitarcenter.com/Akai-Professional-MPD26-Performance-Pad-Controller-105779094-i1504737.gc

Assuming you don't want to use a regular controller keybiard

Bernie

Hi Lionel
Converted styles from Yamaha, Roland, or any other mfgr's will play on the SD2, but, with varying degrees of accuracy.  I converted a Yammy style(Blueberry Hill) to Ketron with EMC Universal.  The native Ketron style is punchier, probably, but conversions are better than nothing.

Here is a link to my 4Share account.  Look for Bluebesf.pat

It plays okay

http://www.4shared.com/account/dir/27801236/92d1eef2/sharing.html?rnd=21#

Bernie

Hi Lionel
This is the only problem with Solton/Ketron, the lack of styles on the net.  Of course, one can buy them at Ketronus, or style disk warehouse, but that runs into money.  On the other hand, these styles can be complex and a lot of work has gone into them.  You can join the Yahoo Solton Forum and there are free files there.

http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/solton/files/

Hi Lionel
Thanks for the input.  I am a gigging OMB on arranger keyboards, but software is new to me, but since I have an SD2, vArranger is a perfect marriage.
Bernie

The left sounds of my presets.  If I choose piano on my left hand to play with the style, I may need to lower it 1 octave.

I am trying to lower my left one octave by one.  The main octave change seems to be global.  I found track 2 coarse tuning, that doesn't work on my trial copy.  Is this the way to do it ?

Wonderful Dan,thank you
Bernie

I am a bit confused.  What part of saving are you working on if Lionel is now instructed to alter the volumes of the accomp tracks and save.
I was under the impression that presets weren't able to be saved yet.

Sorry Dan, maybe my question was poorly stated.
Bernie

Thanks Dan
You have a fine product in the making.  Sorry, I didn't realise it is a work in progress.  When it is up to performance level, I will likely buy it.  This is meant respectfully, but I need to save my reg's, as I do not have time to choose my inst's etc before I start every song.

Aside from tweeking, do I have the ability to save basic config's, like L and R instrument with a chosen style  ?

I don't see rotor control anywhere.  Could you point me to it  ?

Thanks Dan
One other thing is whether my folder and controller settings would remain intact should I buy your software.  It is not a huge conscern, except I won't bother to fine tune the trial app if I have to start over again.  I don't think you answered the question about "SAVE".  It is greyed out and I can't save config's.  Is it because it is a trial version. ?