The last 3 gigs[all outdoor], with my Trio..I have used my M-Audio Axiom61 controller..controlling my VST's on my laptop..The Axiom61 is a USB, 4 zone controller with a multitude of sliders , knobs, buttons, and pads..
I have set it up very basic for now[since I had trouble setting default sliders for drawbars..most likely human error], I set 4 zones , key range and program changes, along with CC7 for expression on pedal and slider #9..
The easy hookup [USB] is quick and clean[no extra wires or interface]...

I am set up[with Forte] to play my VST's..and B4 as a stand alone..I am playing my VST's live along with/and over MP3's, sequences[VanBasco player], and when needed , JammerLive[arranger]..
After 3 gigs with this set up, I am happy to report..no crashes or unexpected /or expected problems..

The Axiom61 has a semi weighted key pad, so it is comfortable to play compared to virtually all the synth action controllers I have tried..The fully weighted ones are too much for me, to use on long gigs..

The one thing that I am compromising on...61 keys, if Axiom had a 76 key version, I would go that way..I find my self going off the board looking for that low "E" bass...

Last night I played at the shore, and the fog moved in so bad[outdoors , remind you]..It was like soup..I had to continually wipe down mics, stands, keyboard, mixer, and laptop..

I was glad I was using a$300 controller, rather than a $3,000 G70..I would have called it if I was playing my G70..I wouldn't expose the G70 to that[against my nature]..

Overall it has been a pleasant surprise working this way with the Axiom61..I will let you all know how things work out as I set up the Axiom61 to do more control...

Very KOOL Fran.....
good luck with the new setup ......
Save the G70 for the Serious Stuff

I've been gigging the G70 on the shore for two years now, often under those humid conditions. Before that, the G1000 for eight years or so. Before that, the G800.

No problems whatsoever (except due to direct sunlight!)...

You don't have to baby them, Roland arrangers are close to bulletproof...

(My usual disclaimer... Your mileage may vary, objects in mirror... yad yada yada. I ALWAYS use an ATA flight case, Always cover it on breaks, ALWAYS power down on breaks, ALWAYS wipe down at the end of the gig, and do a deep clean every month or so. My eight year old G1000 looked virtually showroom when I sold it. Mistreat ANY keyboard, you'll have problems, but normal caution is enough to keep Roland's ticking along just fine).

Great Tips Diki.....especially in Florida temerature......btw Fran is getting old

I didn't let my kids play in the rain, either....I guess I care more for the important things in my life..Like my family, friends and G1000..

BTW: taking care of our instruments pays off..Did I mention that my G1000 sold for more than $1,300 [2 weeks ago]..

So you got $1300 for the G1000... How much for your family and friends?? (Just kidding, Fran!)

(I only got $1200 for my G1000, but I sold it to a VERY good friend!!)

Me, personally, I'd be MUCH more worried about a laptop's reliability under humid conditions than my G70...

After all is said and done..I just spent the last half hour playing the G70 ..what a joy, even compared to the "controller method last night"..Maybe I should buy another G70 for foggy/rainy gigs..

My initial reason for going via controller..to leave my set up[keys] on the jobs that are 1 or 2 months at a time..Rather than breaking down and setting up on these 3 days a week gigs..The trio , I do not need the G70 capabilities..I would enjoy playing it, but the traffic from this busy venue , makes it hard to set up..too many people waiting to be seated[The Crab Trap]..

[This message has been edited by Fran Carango (edited 06-20-2007).]

Rub it in Fran, UPS won't be delivering my G70 until Monday All kidding put aside, I'm glad to hear it's a joy to play.