Holy Crap! Check these out folks if you're like me and love the ease of drum programming using large (touch sensitive pads) found on more expensive drum machines and the so popular Akais, have a look here at these links.

These units can be midi'd up to your keyboards and used to trigger your drums. I'm not sure if others here have any experience with drum machines, but using pads like this (in my opinion are so much more expressive, and give your a greater sense of control over your percussion tracks). Plus they can "greatly" extend the life of your keys, saving them from all that drum pounding I know I give my keys a workout when playing drums!

This one from Akai is only $99.00 http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/A...1&category_id=8

This is a great solution for us keyboardists. It could really simplify drum programming for us. Has anyone tried one of these yet? These items have midi out jacks as well as USB, so you should be able to control external hardware too.

Squeak

[This message has been edited by squeak_D (edited 06-16-2006).]

I got a reply today from Akai regarding their MPD-16 controller pad. The rep gave me the green light and said "yes" they can also be used for synths (or any keyboard that has midi)

I'm going to buy one. For $99.00 it's a minimal investment, and will be a great addition to any keyboard for drum programming.

For those here not used to touch sensitive pads (like those found on drums machines) I can honestly tell you that the result will be quite pleaseing. With a keyboard you have to wait until the key returns--even though they're synth action, but if you're recording a heavy and fast drum loop then your keys can often take a pounding.

With rubber touch sensitive pads, you have a better connection with the sound (at least I feel you do). Personally I think the end result using pads as opposed to keys is more favorable.

Squeak

Doesn't the Roland Fanthom X boards do this kind of stuff also with drum pads on board?

Yes.

Michael

Very Interesting. Please review after you've used it for a while, either here or email me.
What if you need a drum sound that is not in the 16 pads? Is there a way to tell the machine which MIDI number to play on each pad?
What does this mean in English, "The active pad (note number) is the last pad played before the 16-Level key is hit"
I guess this answers one of my questions, "Equipped with 16 totally assignable MPC pads switchable across two banks (thereby giving you effectively 32 pads)"
Starkeeepr

[This message has been edited by Starkeeper (edited 06-19-2006).]

Yup you answered your own question their Starkeeper Totally assignable, and two banks. Plus from what I've read it maps the pads to standard (keyboard drum mapping) 32 pads would't be limiting either (I know I don't use the entire 61+ percussive instruments on each kit with my synths).. The pads would be great for your actual acoustic kit, bongos, and a few other instruments.

Dnj,

Yes the Fantom has touch sensitive pads on the panel. Every Fantom owner I've talked to "loves" those pads, and use them exclusively to record their drum tracks. I'd midi up one of my drum machines, but they both only have "midi-in".

Like I said for $99.00 what a deal. I'm going to check with a few local stores to see if they carry it, and if not probaby order one by nights end.

Squeak

[This message has been edited by squeak_D (edited 06-19-2006).]

Would you be able to assign midi drum notes on the unit itself or do you have to connect it up to a computer to assign the numbers?
What does this mean in English, "The active pad (note number) is the last pad played before the 16-Level key is hit"
Starkeer

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What does this mean in English, "The active pad (note number) is the last pad played before the 16-Level key is hit"
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Starkeeper, not sure about that one. I'll look into and see what I can find out. Even though there are 16 pads, there's actually 2 banks which really makes for 32 sounds. Yes you can select different sounds for the pads by entering the appropriate midi numbers.

Squeak


[This message has been edited by squeak_D (edited 06-20-2006).]