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Average Price: $1,058
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Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Roger Linn Design LinnStrument 128". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 7, 2026.
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Description
Step into a new realm of musical expression with the Roger Linn Design LinnStrument 128. This multi-touch performance controller redefines versatility with its grid of 128 sensor pads, offering musicians a tactile experience akin to playing an acoustic instrument. Whether you're a traditionalist or an innovator, the LinnStrument 128 adapts to your style, allowing you to explore different tunings such as guitar, violin, or standard keyboard layouts.
The LinnStrument 128's integrated backlit sensors respond to touch and movement across three dimensions—X, Y, and Z—enabling you to seamlessly control velocity, loudness, timbre, and pitch. Imagine the creative possibilities as you strum, slide, and tap your way through complex compositions or spontaneous jam sessions. Its user-friendly interface and split keyboard mode make it a perfect tool for both studio production and live performances.
Featuring robust connectivity options, including MIDI in/out and USB, this controller is compatible with PC, Mac, iPad, and iPhone—no drivers required. Its sturdy aluminum and steel construction, complemented by elegant cherry wood side parts, ensures durability and style. Plus, with a guitar strap holder attachment, take your music wherever you go.
Key Features:
- 128 Sensor pads (16 x 8) for expanded creative control
- Responsive to touch, X, Y, and Z-axis for dynamic expression
- Tunable like a guitar, violin, or standard keyboard
- LED grid controller capabilities for diverse applications
- Split keyboard, CC fader, and strum mode arpeggiator
- USB-powered with MIDI in/out connectivity
- Compatible with PC, Mac, iPad, and iPhone (class-compliant)
- Rugged aluminum and steel build with cherry wood accents
- Includes transport bag and USB cable
Product specs
| Available since | November 2016 |
| USB | Yes |
| Bluetooth | No |
| 5-pole DIN MIDI | Yes |
| Ethernet | No |
| Pads | 128 |
| Diplay | No |
| Rotary Knobs | 0 |
| Fader(s) | 0 |
| Drawbar | No |
| Expansion | No |
FAQs
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How many pads does the Roger Linn Design LinnStrument 128 have?
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The Roger Linn Design LinnStrument 128 features 128 pads, allowing for extensive expressive control and musical performance.
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Does the LinnStrument 128 support USB connectivity?
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Yes, the LinnStrument 128 supports USB connectivity, enabling easy integration with computers and other USB-compatible devices.
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Is the LinnStrument 128 compatible with Bluetooth?
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No, the LinnStrument 128 does not support Bluetooth connectivity. It relies on USB and 5-pole DIN MIDI for connections.
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What makes the LinnStrument 128 different from traditional MIDI controllers?
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Unlike traditional MIDI controllers, the LinnStrument 128 senses subtle finger movements in five ways, providing expressive control similar to acoustic instruments.
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Can the LinnStrument 128 be used with 5-pin MIDI devices?
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Yes, the LinnStrument 128 includes a 5-pole DIN MIDI connection, allowing it to interface with traditional MIDI hardware.
Videos
sonicstate
NAMM 2017: Roger Linn's Linnstrument 128
NAMM 2017: Roger Linn's Linnstrument 128
sonicstate
LinnStrument 128 MPE Controller Demonstration
AMAZONA Music Mag
Reviews
PROS
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Full expressivity with pressure and X/Y sensors
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Easier to learn for beginners than traditional keyboards or guitars
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Customizable row offset for tailored playing experiences
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Sturdy build with instant actuation; pads don't physically move
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Open-source firmware allows for extensive customization
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Supports full polyphonic expression with MIDI routing
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Inbuilt pitch quantization modes and "fretless" play options
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Comes with a well-cushioned carry bag and Bitwig 8-track software
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Particularly effective with modeled instruments for expressiveness
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Familiar ergonomic design, intuitive for new users
CONS
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Expensive compared to other MIDI controllers
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Keys have minimal "travel," feeling like a hard surface
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Low-velocity keys are less sensitive than a touchscreen
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Only three notes per vertical column can be played
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Roger Linn Design LinnStrument 128.
Features and functionality
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The LinnStrument's isomorphic layout and MPE support make it ideal for musicians interested in expressive, detailed musical articulation beyond standard MIDI controllers.
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The LinnStrument allows pitch quantization to be turned off, enabling violin-like play with continuous pitch control.
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The LinnStrument 128 includes a step sequencer, and it allows custom scale highlighting through its settings, which can be adjusted using MIDI messages.
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The device lacks a power input jack because it is USB powered, eliminating the need for an external power source.
Source
Software and compatibility
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It's possible to control lighting via MIDI using user firmware mode, providing custom sensor data output for advanced users.
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The firmware is open-source and available on GitHub, allowing for custom modifications and external app development.
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The LinnStrument does not pass MIDI tempo or perform transpositions, which may affect integration with some setups.
Source
User experience
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Some users find the light arrangement distracting, especially when playing in multiple keys, and suggest custom light configurations to mimic guitar fretboard markers.
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Owners appreciate Roger Linn's direct involvement with users, providing personalized support and advice, enhancing the ownership experience.
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Some users report a steep learning curve but appreciate the isomorphic layout for enhanced articulation and varied musical expression.
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Some users find the smaller size potentially limiting for two-handed play, as it could affect interactivity compared to the larger model.
Source
Use cases and applications
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Owners use the LinnStrument with MPE-compatible synths like Deckard's Dream and Micromonsta, enhancing expressive potential.
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The LinnStrument 128's smaller pads allow for the fingering of complex chords with one hand, enhancing solo play speed and complexity.
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It's possible to attach a guitar strap to the LinnStrument, allowing it to be played standing, similar to a Chapman Stick.
Source
Other
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The LinnStrument's design is inspired by the Soundplane, with significant advancements in scale changeability and visual representation, offering a unique expressive musical interface.
Source
Comparisons
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Compared to the Push 3, the LinnStrument's 128 pads provide a larger surface for skilled chord and solo play, while Push targets clip launchers and beatmakers with its 8x8 pad matrix.
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LinnStrument 128 offers a 4-octave range with 16 columns in the default 4ths tuning, akin to a guitar with 15 frets and an open string.
Source
Critic Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Genre Usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Roger Linn Design LinnStrument 128, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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