Anyone got a way of converting keystrokes from a standard QWERTY keyboard to midi notes, cc, or Program changes?
Bout to get me a dwarf and this seems like an easy idea for adding a whole bunch of additional controls.
2 Likes
Do you want that coming from a phone/tablet or computer?
I would say that from a computer that is a really simple Max MSP or Pure Data patch
1 Like
Iāve written a virtual MidiKeyboard as LV2 plugin here:
But, here on the MOD we need to use javascript/css to grab the keyboard input while my solution (as also the other suggested ones) using xevents for that.
A example for using javascript for it is here:
2 Likes
Itās not clear for me if you intend to simply plug in a keyboard on the usb-host port for this?
1 Like
there are projects to convert regular keyboard input into notes.
@brummer relying on web gui being open for this is not very practical.
in theory it is possible to open usb handles for hid events and listen to those.
3 Likes
Ableton is what gave me the idea.
The idea was to Plug a qwerty keyboard straight into the dwarf and then within a plug-in: map your QWERTY keystrokes to cvās, loopers; or say a series of notes;
my idea - rip apart a QWERTY keyboard: build organ pedalboard using qwerty keyboard circuit : and have them trigger a virtual organ bass inside the dwarf.
4 Likes
The cheapest midi organ pedal board isā¦ not cheap - but as organ pedals donāt need velocity - simple keystrokes on and off is all it needs- I was going to rip apart a cheap 25 key midi controller as an organ donor (pardon the pun) but a qwerty keyboard is so cheap: if thereās a way to make it work Iām all ears!
2 Likes
And if this is possible - it would give users a super cheap āmidiā controller with heaps of buttons (alas no knobs or faders: but buttons can go along way)
2 Likes
Yea, my impression was (wrongly) to use it with the web editor and desktop keyboard.
1 Like
Hmmm, VMPC uses keyboard events to control the plugin as well, so hooking up a keyboard to a MOD unit for controlling a plugin isnāt the craziest idea imo.
4 Likes
Thatās actually a really cool idea , maybe go one stage further and have joystick input too then I can be Tim exile all over again . I used to use a program VSTHOST to send midi out from a joystick years ago - a big thrustmaster flight stick. Was loads of fun dropping beats and modulating
3 Likes
As far as I know stuff like Playstation remote controllers can be already used. So somehow itās what you are mentioning @Austin73
1 Like
OK will check it out when I finish work but only have xbox controllers these days - is there any particular plugin I need to use?
2 Likes
I donāt think so.
Take a look here. Not a lot of info, but I believe you should be able to simply map it. @falkTX am I correct?
1 Like
OK will definitely try later with the bits I have and feedback
Cheers for input
2 Likes
Ok so just got back from work - plugged in my XBOX One controllerā¦
Holy FFFFFFF it works brilliantly . Just selected MIDI when you are looking to control the plugin, move the joystick or press a button and hey presto.
Just need either a way to select toggle instead of momentary, I think Iām being a bit dumb tonight but just canāt work it out.
@falkTX can I connect it via Bluetooth, or does it have to be wired?
P.S Also tried my old Buzz Quiz controllers but thats a no Iām afraid
3 Likes
OK had another quick go this morning pre shift this morning and really digging it now.
Think we need a dedicated plug of say 16 buttons that can be addressed to send out pc, cc, note etc as required. I know there are plenty of work arounds but it gets very messy very quick.
Also need to be able to connect via BT as this would really push the envelope. I used to use Wii controllers for a short while with glovepie if I remember correctly which Jon or James has messed with too?
There are plenty of little android / pc joysticks on Aliexpress etc that could be stuck on a guitar or synth for a bit of extra control.
And last point - do a proper video of a joystick being plugged in and used. Think it might be another āoh wow thatās coolā accolade to the MOD devices as donāt know any other hardware you can do that with.
Few finished rant
Have fun and stay safe
6 Likes
+1. I didnāt keep track but one of the most requested plugins. A mindi x16.
really like that - put it in the hands of a kid, assign chords to the buttons and a synth and see whatās possible.
5 Likes