linux software synth / hardware drum module

[pbh4]

Hi,

I am fairly new around here. I do not yet have a megadrum but have ordered the kits from Synthex. I am going to build an aeectronic kit for/with my 12 year old son who is a gifted percussionist and drummer (I only play the viola )

I am trying to figure out the best way to get some sound out after I have built it. I was hoping to use a software synth on linux (fluidsynth or timidity) or my Roland VA-7 keyboard in the short term and invest in a hardware drum module in the longer term. I have some questions I cannot find the answer to on this forum, the megadrum documentation or anywhere else.

I understand that megadrum supports cymbal chokes and variable hi hat sounds by means of MIDI CC messages but I cannot figure out whether the software synths or my keyboard will support this convention. The VA-7 is probably about 10 years old and has general midi 2.0 support and some good drum sounds but is not a specialized drum machine. If not, is there any way I can get it to work such as routing midi signals through something that will convert them to something the keyboard will understand?

Is there a better linux software route? Hydrogen?

Failing the linux software or Roland keyboard routes, what hardware drum modules support variable hi hat and cymbal chokes? Is this CC convention new? Do I need to avoid older models? - if so how old?

Cheers,

Paul

[Firelord]

Why not get Windows?

[Rubis]

Why not get Windows?

Cost, overhead, reliability, and just the principle of the thing. Some of us just don't like the feel of the OS. Windows 7 is a big step up, but until it properly handles window focus, I won't use it unless it is absolutely necessary.

More on topic, the GSCW kits for Hydrogen sound pretty good. You can get them at http://www.autodafe.net/gscw-drum-kit-f ... chine.html . I can't comment on whether Hydrogen supports cymbal chokes or not, because I haven't finished my cymbals. I know that you can choke the recorded note with the note-length editor, but I don't know if it works from the CC messages.

[tatankam]

I use Debian with Hydrogen and Megadrum 56input connected by USB

The only thing to have attention: open Hydrogen, AFTER connect the USB to Megadrum, and after you can select from the preferences of Hydrogen the input "Megadrum MIDI USB".

Mario