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Roger Linn Design LinnStrument 128 MIDI Performance Controller

128-note USB MIDI Controller Keyboard, with Polyphonic Aftertouch, Pitch, and Modulation
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Roger Linn Design LinnStrument 128 MIDI Performance Controller
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Ultimate MIDI Control and Expression

Roger Linn Design's LinnStrument 128 MIDI controller delivers the same amazing control and playability as the original LinnStrument, only in a slightly more compact and more affordable package. Featuring 128 (vs. the original's 200) individual responsive pads and powerful multimode functions, this matrix of touch-sensitive controls lets you play your instruments and create music in a fun and exciting way. If you're a guitarist, then this is the MIDI controller you've always wanted, and if you're a keyboardist, then hang on to your hat, because this unique controller will spark your creativity in a whole new way.

The most responsive pads you'll ever play

"Responsive" hardly covers it — it's like saying a Hennessey Venom GT is a "fast" car. These pads respond to strike velocity, pressure, X and Y axis motion, and even release velocity — and they do it all in such an organic way that it becomes totally natural. In fact, after a few days of familiarizing themselves with the LinnStrument, several Sweetwater songwriters found going back to a traditional keyboard to feel a bit flat. Best of all, you get 128 of these pads, covering four octaves and making other functions feel totally natural.

  • Based on a matrix of 128 highly expressive performance pads
  • Pads transmit full-resolution note-on and note-off velocity
  • Pads include individual continuous X-, Y-, and Z-axis control

The perfect MIDI controller for non-keyboardists

First off, the LinnStrument 128's tuning options are incredibly flexible, so you aren't stuck with any one configuration. That said, the default is perfect fourths, making the note arrangement from row to row like that of an 8-string bass. If you play guitar, bass, or other stringed instruments, this controller will feel totally natural. What's more, you can easily set the note range and highlight all the naturals in whatever scale you like, with different colors for the octaves. Even if you don't play another instrument, you'll find learning to rock out on the LinnStrument 128 incredibly easy.

  • Each row arranges notes like a string on a guitar or bass
  • Choose your row-to-row tuning (e.g., perfect fourths)
  • LEDs highlight the notes in whichever scale you choose

Plays well with any MIDI synth or virtual instrument

Armed with both standard MIDI I/O and USB connectivity, the Roger Linn Design LinnStrument 128 is the perfect companion for your favorite synthesizers and virtual instruments. Everything it does sends MIDI information, and depending on how flexible your synths are, you get a virtually unlimited amount of control. In fact, if you're running a synth with next-generation MPE (Multidimensional Polyphonic Expression) MIDI control, such as the included Bitwig 8-track or many synths created in Native Instruments Reaktor or Cycling 74 Max, you enjoy full control over each note you play.

  • MIDI I/O and USB connectivity connect to your synths
  • Get full note expression from MPE-equipped instruments
  • Includes Bitwig 8-track MPE-based virtual instrument

Get creative with sequencing and arpeggiation

Simple top-level buttons let you access the LinnStrument 128's additional tools. First, there's the powerful 2-track step sequencer, which includes independent track step sizes and loop lengths, as well as reverse play, live play, and more. The arpeggiator is also impressive, with its expressive swing and responsive chord functions. Just by varying your pressure, you can manipulate the arpeggiator to create exciting and constantly changing rhythms.

  • Top-level controls let you access advanced functions
  • 2-track step sequencer includes multiple play modes
  • Arpeggiator offers swing, chord, and other options

Additional control options offer added expression

Kick in the Low Row mode and the LinnStrument 128 lets you control multiple parameters, such as sustain, modulation, and pitch bend, all at once, via the bottom row of 3D pads. Top it off with dual footswitch support, strum mode for guitar-like chords, and splits that allow different modes in each section, and the control options onboard the LinnStrument 128 will blow you away.

  • Low Row mode provides multiple-parameter control
  • Strum mode lets you express guitar-style chords
  • Splits let you use multiple modes and tools at once

Roger Linn Design LinnStrument 128 MIDI Controller Features:

  • A 128-pad version of the groundbreaking LinnStrument MIDI controller
  • Perfect for songwriters, guitarists, and other creative artists
  • Each pad includes velocity (on and off), pressure, and X/Y motion control
  • Take full control of MPE (Multidimensional Polyphonic Expression) instruments
  • Includes Bitwig 8-track soft synth with MPE instruments
  • Customizable layout arranges notes on rows like strings on a guitar
  • Multicolor LEDs provide scale highlighting for natural and octave notes
  • 2-track step sequencer and extremely flexible arpeggiator onboard
  • Low Row mode and Strum mode provide extended expression options
  • Split the playing area into multiple modes for even more dynamic playing
  • Includes dual footswitch inputs and guitar strap pegs for different playing styles

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Tech Specs

  • Type: MIDI Performance Controller
  • Pads: 128 multi-touch sensors (pressure, velocity, X axis, Y axis)
  • Velocity Sensitive: Yes
  • MIDI I/O: In/Out/USB
  • Pedal Inputs: 1 x 1/4" (footswitch)
  • USB: 1 x Type B
  • Sequencer: 2-track Step Sequencer
  • Software: Bitwig 8-track
  • Power Supply: USB bus power
  • Height: 1"
  • Width: 15.7"
  • Depth: 8.2"
  • Weight: 4 lbs.
  • Manufacturer Part Number: LinnStrument 128

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Customer Reviews

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Rated 5/5

BEST MIDI Control in my studio!

Roger Linn has succeeded in creating a one of the kind musical expression instrument. The instrument is top notch in quality and design! I have finally found a MIDI controller that allows me to add expressive touch to my synth instruments. I grew up in the bay area of California in the 70's, and very quickly became a fan of Roger Linn's and Dave Smiths work and the important contributes that they both made in the electronic music industry. Roger is a fantastic electronic engineer and musician. The Linnstrument will not disappoint.
Rated 5/5

My Favorite MiDi Controller

The Linnstrument is by far the most incredible MiDi controller I've ever used and it's certainly the most intuitive for guitar and bass players. I've only been using it for a couple months but I already feel more comfortable improvising on the Linnstrument than I ever felt on keyboard. All of my guitar and bass tapping ideas work on the Linnstrument and I'm able to easily expand on those concepts because of the Linnstrument's excellent playability.

I will be using the Linnstrument to record Synth Bass, Piano, Organ, etc... and I'm already using it every day with MuseScore to write out sheet music for my students. I absolutely love my Linnstrument 128 and I've been showing it every musician I know. People are blown away by it and I really feel like it is the MiDi Controller of the future.
Music background: Professional Bass Player
Rated 5/5

Perfection.

Roger Linn has done so much for music technology that it would be a long list to name them all. However, Linnstrument sets a new standard for musical expression in an instrument. The three dimensional playing surface gives more life to the notes, it's like having a more guitar-like expression than regular note-on/off controllers.
The row offset feature provides additional note patterns which is great for creativity. There are additional features with it too, and the entire unit is very user friendly. The quality of the build is top notch. This is definitely a serious instrument.
Rated 5/5

A New Era of Music Creation is Born

Linnstrument = new era of music/creativity. It is an instrument-controller which provides for what I describe as "Modernized Vintage"; and this is truly nothing short of AMAZING. This instrument has bridged the "gap" in terms of digital-vs-acoustic musical techniques.

(1) The ability to play synths "AS IF" they were fully articulated & expressive acoustic instruments changes the game (primarily in terms of performance).

(2) This finally allows musicians/composers/producers the ability to use all the awesome sounding string, brass, & guitar libraries (Kontakt, EastWest, MusicLab, Halion, etc.) to their maximum potential.

I am "violining" (vibrato & pitch-bending) like an ACTUAL violin/cello. There is no core difference between playing the Linn as a "digital lap steel" or "digital slide guitar" and the actual acoustic instrument. The only limit would be the quality of the sound library or VSTi you're using.

It has been a bit mind-blowing to be honest. Better experience than what I was expecting. The vibrato & pitch-bending immediately stood out.

I was originally a bit skeptical that there were any new capabilities to be found with MIDI-based creation, but the Linnstrument has not only humbled/surprised me - but has more importantly provided the musical freedom I've always craved from electronic music.

Thank You Roger Linn for yet again crafting a ground-breaking tool for the music community! (MPC "Drum Machine" lover; late 90s)
Rated 5/5

Linnstrument = Wow

This is a simple design idea taken all the way to fruition.. I don't read music nor am I a keyboard player but I understood how this worked immediately... I also have the Seaboard Rise and the MPE capability of these two instruments have added another set of parameters (MPE) previously unavailable. This is perfect for adding horn stabs or string section and the realism of the VST stands out.. 5stars!
Music background: 40+ years playing, recording, mixing in Nashville
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