Controller suggestions.... Can't currently purchase Breath Controller

[Jonathanatkinson]

Hey all, Just looking for suggestions really.... Ideally I'd be looking for a Yamaha Breath controller, and I have an input to use one (a BC3) on my DrumKat... However, they're no longer in production, and I've been looking out for old stock, or second hand for a while with no joy. Any thoughts on a useable plan B? I guess an expression pedal would be one way to go, but my gut feeling is that it's not going to be as natural to use as a Breath Controller (especially for brass and winds) What other options are out there...?

[stevesolum]

I use a CME UF 70 that I purchased new 2-3 years ago. It has a breath controller input. 'Not sure of their present product lineup. Cheers, Steve S

[Jonathanatkinson]

Thanks for the reply. However, it's not the input that I require... There are lots of options for that, and I already have an input in my DrumKat... The problem is that nobody is currently manufacturing a breath controller.... The Yamaha BC3A which was their last model is now discontinued and has not been replaced.

[DG]

There is no other option for the BC3A, so you're out of luck. Sorry.

DG

[stevesolum]

@Jonathanatkinson said:

Thanks for the reply. However, it's not the input that I require... There are lots of options for that, and I already have an input in my DrumKat... The problem is that nobody is currently manufacturing a breath controller.... The Yamaha BC3A which was their last model is now discontinued and has not been replaced.

ahh, I didn't know that. Must be recent, as I bought a new BC3 last year. I will hold my BC1 and 3 close then : )

[PierreFunck]

OMG! I heavily depend on my Yamaha BC3A, if it breaks, I'll have to stop producing music... no alternatives whatsoever...?

[gerard kruse]

A EWI by Akai does the same as the BC3 (pressure transducer), with more but not necessary options, and much heavier. Can be directly plugged in a USB port, however.

Gerard

[DG]

However, if you are mainly a keyboard player, it is impossible to work without a huge amount of practice. I speak from experience, as I've given myself 6 months to learn. [:(]

DG

[PierreFunck]

... and you have to use one hand to hold the device. With the BC3A, both hands are free.

[gerard kruse]

Yes, the ewi is too clumsy for a one take with a keyboard. I write the notes first and add the pressure controller later, which requires editting later to better fit start and end of notes.

Gerard

[Jonathanatkinson]

Thanks for the input (scuse the pun) chaps....I think I might try an expression pedal under the left foot.... Not as obviously intuitive as a breath controller (especially for a trumpet player like myself...) but better than the other apparent options (none..!)

[dsilvercoin]

Would people recommend the EWI to a sax player for controlling VSL instruments?

And if so, is the EWI USB adequate or is their any reason why one would need the EWI 4000s?

(I'll probbaly post this in a separate thread as well)

thx!

d.

[popmann]

I would buy a bc3 in a heartbeat for my Brass2 and MojoHorns, along with the Kronos horn samples. I find it odd in this day and age that no one makes a breath controller. The Akai is more--it s amid I brass controller that you are intended to hold and play. It's odd to be that there is no headset format bc like the old Yamaha. 

[Dominic Laprise]

Controller pedal ? I use it for una corda, expression, and wha-wha on guitar.

How maybe you could find a used breath control on Ebay ? Just kidding... [I] 

[Minimidi]

You could have a look at one of these [url]http://www.synthtopia.com/content/2013/04/30/new-usb-midi-breath-controller[/url]