Keyboard has all knobs on the left, should they redesign it?
 

Hi,

I don't know if I am the only one who dislikes the layout of the 61-note keyboard version of the Virus (TI), but why are all the knobs + LCD of the 61-note keyboard version completely on the left, instead of being in the middle (or spread evenly) above the keyboard, like with most other synth I know and gives a much better user interface when playing on the keyboard and want to use the knobs and read the LCD screen, etc..

I am not only talking about workstations, but also VA keyboards like Novation's KS4/5 synths seem to have the knobs much better placed above the keyboard which makes it all easier to use.

Am I the only one or would other people also like to see a 61-keyboard version of the TI with a better interface (like the KS4/5, knobs and LCD placed in the middle above keys). If enough people would want this, I could contact Access about this and I am sure they would consider making it, so everybody reply here please if you would also want this!

I can gues the response, if any, you might get.
It's cheaper for them to use the same circuit boards in all models.

Honestly I prefer all the knobs on the left. I have ever since getting the Nordlead2 all those years ago. Gives me more real time playable access to everything (but I do prefer to play leads and bass with my right hand though).

I also like putting things on top of the spare space on the right too.

All personal preference though I guess. :)

But would it be so difficult for them to place the entire knobs section (which is indeed the same as with the dektop module) in the middle above the keys instead of completely to the left. You know, like it is with the Novation KS4/5 synths. It's much easier to use the knobs and LCD when they are in the middle above the keys. Do you think it would be difficult for them to change that technically?!

The reason why the knobs are on the left is obvious: You play with your right. If the knobs would be in the middle you would have to keep your hands in weird position. Imagine yourself using modwheel that's placed in the middle.

I think you are on your own here mate!

It is quite obvious that the knobs should be on the upper left, as most would play synth lines with the right, whilst tweaking with the left hand...

Keyboards/ workstations that have things centralised are not in the same league as a VA like the Virus. The Virus is for tweaking, live, and getting creative......a workstation or rompler is something where you find a sound, tweak a little (EQ etc), and then play, but not usually in real time (like with the filters/resonance)

By the way all assingable controllers on workstations are on left side.

i think for left handed people the whole synth part on the left might be a bit diffecult when playing live.

When you play keyboards you naturally play melodies with right hand and the rest with left. I haven't heard of a keyboardist that would play melodies on left.

Edit: Except Keith Emerson who is left-handed (Hammond with right and Moog leads with left), but mainly he plays traditionally.

Generally, left-handed people play the keys in the same way as right-handed people ;)