Footpedal controllers for synth?

[ihateusernames]

Not sure how to title this to get the responses I'm after.

We're adding more and more songs that are too empty without synth parts. Does a programmable footpedal based unit exist, similar to the pedals on an organ but programming to replace keys/synths? The guys won't wear in ears, nor will the drummer wear headphones so clicktracks and midi are not an option - I need real time playability with me feet!

While true keys/synth is the best solution for sound and ease, we'd rather not add another musician to the mix for 5 songs in a 30 song night!

[Ely]

The best option is right here. http://www.moogmusic.com/taurus/?sec...oduct_id=21299

Other than that, look up something called the Basyn (I think?)

Or pick up any synth that has MIDI inputs and a Roland PK-5 (basically organ footpedals without a sound module)

[Lefty Geek]

Originally Posted by Ely

Or pick up any synth that has MIDI inputs and a Roland PK-5 (basically organ footpedals without a sound module)

I just jammed with a couple of guys with this setup. PK-5 into a MicroKorg, played by the drummer.

http://www.myspace.com/bathyspheremusic

[GingerConor]

Originally Posted by Lefty Geek

I just jammed with a couple of guys with this setup. PK-5 into a MicroKorg, played by the drummer.

http://www.myspace.com/bathyspheremusic

so ur drummer controled settings/sound while u played the notes???

Conor

[fightthepower]

On the myspace page it says the drummer is playing a floor tom, snare, cymbal etc, while playing the PK-5 pedals with his feet (as opposed to a kick drum and hi hat). The PK-5 is controlling the microkorg.

[GingerConor]

Originally Posted by fightthepower

On the myspace page it says the drummer is playing a floor tom, snare, cymbal etc, while playing the PK-5 pedals with his feet (as opposed to a kick drum and hi hat). The PK-5 is controlling the microkorg.

ahhh, i see!!! very cool!!

[almix12]

not exactly sure what you're after
but i know roland makes a foot pedal controller (like hammond organs, actual pedals)
or if you want pedals for patch changes and expression pedals, Behringer FCB1010
(one of behringer's actually good products) very well made

[ihateusernames]

the taurus is exactly it! now, how to do that for something under a few hundred dollars?

[Ely]

Originally Posted by ihateusernames

the taurus is exactly it! now, how to do that for something under a few hundred dollars?

http://basyn.com/

That's the cheapest you'll find. I really don't like the look of those buttons as opposed to the organ pedal style controllers, though.

I'd recommend the Roland and a cheap synth.

[GingerConor]

Originally Posted by Ely

http://basyn.com/

That's the cheapest you'll find. I really don't like the look of those buttons as opposed to the organ pedal style controllers, though.

I'd recommend the Roland and a cheap synth.

whats the model name of the roland one?

Conor

[brstma]

This might be worth a look
http://cgi.ebay.com/DIGIKICK-FOOTAR-...A10%7C294%3A50

[Ely]

Originally Posted by GingerConor

whats the model name of the roland one?

Conor

The Roland PK5 has 13 keys and goes for about $500.

[The Mock Turtle Regulator]

Originally Posted by brstma

This might be worth a look
http://cgi.ebay.com/DIGIKICK-FOOTAR-...A10%7C294%3A50

I've been watching the demonstration vids for the Footar-
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CZQGxJm6xkc
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CEKWeQybhS4

a very interesting concept- especially the ability to programme chords for each button.

[ihateusernames]

that footar is quite an impressive controller. i still prefer an organ pedal layout, it's easier for me to look at and know i'm on the right note than a fretboard layout. great controller though, i'm considering it.

[The Mock Turtle Regulator]

Studiologic/Fatar do a couple, 13 and 17 note- http://www.studiologic.net/mp-117.html

although the transposing range is limited at only 2 octaves.

a list of others-
http://www.virtualorgan.com/Default.asp?page=54

Basyn do a kit for building your own too-
http://animecollectibles.com/basyn/o...cf58ac7358b5e8