Which number keypad to buy for note input?

Dorico
1

Hi,

I have always used an external number keypad for note input to change note values, etc, but the one I have worked better for Finale…

Does anyone have a recommendation for a specific one that you find works well with Dorico? If it can do accidentals, articulations, ties, or at some of these? (This is why mine worked better on Finale – the buttons I’d normally use for these actions don’t register on Dorico.)

Also open to other solutions / methods that I need to evolve into!

Thanks!

2

I bought this one to use with my laptop, and it works just like the numpad on my extended keyboard for my desktop:

In terms of accidentals, etc., it depends on what key commands you have set up in Dorico. Like I said, it works just like the numpad on my full keyboard, with all the same shortcuts I configured for that. It has no other special magic powers.

I’m sure others here will suggest the Notation Express products, either with a Stream Deck or with the Stream Deck Mobile app on your phone. It does much more than a numpad, because it has purpose-built buttons for different actions. But it’s not something that fits in my workflow.

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In what way? Could it be a question of changing the commands that each key triggers?

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I use a 3Dconnexion Pro keypad placet to the left of my keyboard. It has programmable keys and I have set it up with the functions that I use the most. I printed stickers for the keys since I use it exclusively for Dorico - for other programs I use another numpad to the right. I have a midi keyboard that slides out under my desk so note input is very convenient. I reduced the number of note values on to only 6 in order to be able to include more other functions. On the few occations I need shorter than 32nd or longer than whole note I have to work around that limitation. To me it is worth it so I can include other useful functions instead. This can off course be set up to your preference. I am very happy with the way this works.

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This keyboard from Logitech has worked well for me Buy Wave Keys | Logitech

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Hi Ben, yeah I think basically I never bothered to program the keys and they were already pretty much what I needed, haha.

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Thanks all! I’ll update when I pick one. The main thing I’m getting is that I just need to take the time to program it how I want it! Haha.

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@NathanBrooklyn , I use an old iPad (and/or phone) with the StreamDeck mobile app.

I can lay it out any way I want want, and use it concurrently with my computer keyboard or midi device.

— Jim

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I highly recommend Glorious GMMK Numpad, it is little bit pricey but it is good. It also work with bluetooth.

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