Hi Ivan, Glad you got QWS working.
Regarding what keyboard to get, I think perhaps you might almost inspire me to write a new article for the site on the subject - time permitting. Basically, I think people are using a whole variety of keyboards. So long as you can connect it to your computer and Windows recognises a MIDI device, QWS will work with it. Typically, this means you can connect using a MIDI interface and MIDI cables, or many modern keyboards also have USB. In terms of the keyboard itself, I would suggest you go down to a music store and find one you like. They've all got different features, knobs and buttons and, most importantly, diferent sounds. They also come in different sizes and have different prices. You can also look on the net for reviews of particular models and brands and hear demos. There is one thing that might render a keyboard more unfriendly for visually impaired users and that is if it relies on a touchscreen. I would probably recommend you find a keyboard that has real buttons and knobs. When you go to the store, make sure the salesperson shows you how to do the basics and make sure that you can do it for yourself. We're talking real basics, including turning it on, selecting sounds, selecting basic modes; if applicable, selecting rhythms, and so on. Many keyboards usually contain some kind of configuration menus to make a variety of settings. It can be helpful if, when navigating these menus, the cursor stops at the top/bottom. This isn't essential, but can help so you know where you are, or can find a reference point. Regarding the menus, I know some people ask others to read them all out so they can note tdown the order of the options. It might be helpful to get the manual in something other than print. Many manufacturers now provide manuals on the websites in PDF format. You may have noticed, I have not mentioned any particular models or manufacturers, so here are some features I would consider important: * Sounds - at least usable: you want something you will enjoy playing * keys - touch sensitive * keys - full size * keys - at least four octaves (49 notes). Most keyboards are 61 notes * sustain jack - for connecting sustain pedal * pitch bend (optional) * modulation wheel/lever (optional) * MIDI connectors - especially useful if you want to connect to other MIDI gear * MIDI connectors or USB connector - needed to connect to PC Choices you can then make include: * price bracket * number of sounds (do you want just a few, dozens, hundreds or thousands) * unweighted, semi- or fully weighted keys * 61, 76 or 88 keys * portable or fixed installation - tuck under your arm or furniture style OK, that's probably enough for now, but I hope this has been some help. With best regards, James. On 08/08/2011, Ivan Pivac <[email protected]> wrote: > Hi joe and Raymond, > > Many thanks for all your tips on getting QWS to play midi files. I can > report that all is working well now. Just a further question at this > point. I > read that it is possible to connect an external keyboard to a PC and create > one's own midi files. Is there a particular keyboard that is user=friendly > for visually impaired users to look out for? > > Speaking of tutorials, I did convert the original manual into Braille and > embossed it. I'm quite happy to convert the latest manual into Braille and > post it for folk to download if james is happy after reading a proof copy. > > Regards > Ivan > To unsubscribe or change list options, see http://lists.andrelouis.com for archived list posts, see http://www.mail-archive.com/[email protected]
