Shelljam transforms keystrokes into MIDI events, and is compatible with all platforms, making it a versatile console application.
Shelljam is a software application that allows users to transform keystrokes into MIDI events, enabling the use of a computer keyboard as a MIDI input device across different platforms. This unique feature lets users enjoy true live-played computer-made music for its own sake and uniqueness. It is not meant to replace musical keyboards, but rather to enhance the music-creating experience by offering full musical control on a computer.
Shelljam is written in C++ and has been optimized for speed. It provides the ability to enjoy favorite soft synths without the GUI and reduce overhead if the synth is all that is needed. With Shelljam, users can perform live alongside their computers. Tech-savvy Windows and Mac users can compile their own versions with the portable application, although there is some latency.
An excellent feature in Shelljam is its ability to allow users to switch octaves and MIDI channels just like on expensive synth boards. The application locks the keyboard and mouse, ensuring users never lose focus in mid-performance. However, there are a few known issues worth mentioning. The command-line version leaves the keyboard in medium-raw mode, and the X interface spawns a non-drawing window. Additionally, keymaps are hard-coded with no way to change them without a little bit of compiling.
Shelljam requires libgii 0.9.1 or higher and portmidi 20041117 or later to function. Once all prerequisites are met, installation is straightforward. After making sure you have all required dependencies, extract and compile the binary using scons and then copy it wherever it is usable, e.g., /usr/bin.
In conclusion, Shelljam provides users with an exciting way to create music using their computer keyboard with full musical control. Its speed, portability, and support for soft synths without a GUI make it a unique and useful tool. Even with known issues, it is worth trying Shelljam's robust software and exploring its full potential.
Shelljam is written in C++ and has been optimized for speed. It provides the ability to enjoy favorite soft synths without the GUI and reduce overhead if the synth is all that is needed. With Shelljam, users can perform live alongside their computers. Tech-savvy Windows and Mac users can compile their own versions with the portable application, although there is some latency.
An excellent feature in Shelljam is its ability to allow users to switch octaves and MIDI channels just like on expensive synth boards. The application locks the keyboard and mouse, ensuring users never lose focus in mid-performance. However, there are a few known issues worth mentioning. The command-line version leaves the keyboard in medium-raw mode, and the X interface spawns a non-drawing window. Additionally, keymaps are hard-coded with no way to change them without a little bit of compiling.
Shelljam requires libgii 0.9.1 or higher and portmidi 20041117 or later to function. Once all prerequisites are met, installation is straightforward. After making sure you have all required dependencies, extract and compile the binary using scons and then copy it wherever it is usable, e.g., /usr/bin.
In conclusion, Shelljam provides users with an exciting way to create music using their computer keyboard with full musical control. Its speed, portability, and support for soft synths without a GUI make it a unique and useful tool. Even with known issues, it is worth trying Shelljam's robust software and exploring its full potential.
What's New
Version 0.0.1: N/A