I’m using the AstroLab in a hybrid PC setup with Cantabile 4. We could really use some additional MIDI implementation to avoid having to build a zillion nearly identical presets. If I want to use the Scale/Chord/Split/Layer functions, each one needs to be saved as a separate preset…which means if I decide to tweak a sound used for multiple songs that have different scale/chord/range requirements, I then have to find every version of that, apply the same changes, and hope I didn’t miss any. It’s especially inconvenient when I need to do key range splits with some things on the AstroLab and some on the PC.
It would be extremely helpful for the sake of consistency to be able use the presets in the AstroLab as master patches, and then send a batch of CC changes to alter them as needed on a song by song basis. It would also avoid having to menu dive or load a whole different preset when all you need is the split point to change for few bars.
MIDI Controls Needed:
- Scale and Chord Select and On/Off
- Part 1 and 2 Key Ranges and Octave Shifts
- Transpose
- Local On/Off
I know there might be some hardware restrictions preventing this, but it would also be really useful to have a global audio input to output bypass mode. I just want to be able to send my audio interface through the AstroLab regardless of what preset is loaded so I don’t need an extra piece of equipment on stage. I don’t need it processed, I don’t need it put through any effects, I just need it sent straight to the output along with whatever the AstroLab is doing. I know the Bluetooth input will do that, but Bluetooth is obviously useless in this case due to the latency.
I’d even be willing to use the AstroLab as my interface if that were an option in the future and the latency was reasonable. Honestly, I’m a little baffled by the lack of audio over USB capability, considering all of the other connectivity options. I mean, there aren’t a ton of scenarios where you wouldn’t just use AstroLab to control the Analog Lab VST, but it would be at least as useful as Bluetooth audio.
Anyway, I don’t mean to sound too negative - I am loving the AstroLab overall and it’s still the right keyboard for my rig. Just some unexpected holes in the usability. Thanks for keeping these things in mind!