Simple Midi Software

[zepp]

Hi,

I am looking for some very simple midi software. I just want to press a key and hear the note. That simple.

I have Piano Suit Primer, but the sound lags behind by about a second after I press a key. I also have Synthesia, which does not suffer from this problem, however the sound output is quiet (I have checked the software for volume controls, could not find any). Since I am using video tutorials and copying midi examples I have to keep altering the sound levels on each to avoid blasting my ear drums. You also have to choose a song and click on several buttons to get to hear the keyboard, which is a bit annoying.

Not sure if this matters but I am using the m-audio keystation 88es (as was recommended to me on here ), windows 7 32bit and a Creative X-Fi XtremeMusic sound card.

Thanks

 

[The Y_man]

When you say "midi software" are you talking about "sequencing software"? Or a Virtual Synth?

The Y-man

 

[zepp]

I'm not actually familiar with either of those terms. I just want to be able to hear my keyboard when I press a key. I don't need any backing tracks, effects or the ability to record.

 

[The Y_man]

You need a Virtual Synth.

Have a look at free programs like Chainer

http://www.xlutop.com/html/chainer.html

then load a (free) VST plug in (just google "Free VST")

You will also need ASIO driver to get rid of any lag

http://www.asio4all.com/

The Y-man

 

[YeahDoIt]

http://www.anvilstudio.com/

 

[zepp]

Thanks Y man, Chainer was exactly what I was looking for.

Thanks also to YeahDolt for the suggestion, though I could not get any sound output from Anvil.

 

[Julian]

The fastest and lighter i found is this: (freeware)
VMPK. Virtual Midi Piano Keyboard

Takes about 2.5 secs to start in my dualcore...