LinnStrument

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why can't you do this on an iPad?

A: The main reason is the iPad does not sense finger pressure (for note loudness/expression) or even strike velocity, so at best an iPad LinnStrument app would provide on/off control of notes, like playing organ sounds with pitch and timbre control. Also, iPad's size is too small for playing notes and chords, is scanned too slowly for rhythmic music, and does not provide tactile ridges between notes to feel your way around the fingerboard. However, the iPad app Musix is wonderful for experimenting with new note layouts, and many creative iPad apps exist for music and audio control applications.

Q: What is the note spacing and size of total playing area?

A: In the guitar/grid and piano layouts, the notes are 3/4 inch apart, same as a computer keyboard and same as the spacing between your fingers.  On the Hex Key Flat Top layout, the spacing is 3/4" from key center to key center above it. On the Hex Key Flat Side layout, the spacing is 3/4" from key center to key center to its side. The total playing surface area regardless of layout is 18.75" wide by 6" deep.

Q: How do the interchangeable note layouts work?

A: The top of the metal chassis is removed with six screws on the sides to reveal the sensing surface. Remove the current overlay, replacing it with another, then replace it with the desired overlay and replace the top chassis section.