Dear MMD and Lars, The PowerRoll can be run by any device that plays
MIDI, including a Macintosh. The key is whether you have the proper
MIDI files.
All of the scanned files offered for the PowerRoll by Spencer Chase
<spencer@mcn.org> include MIDI files which can operate the PowerRoll
from either Macintosh or Windows. However, Spencer only offers Duo-Art
files.
Wayne Stanhke's files for the PowerRoll use a format (BAR/ANN) that
works with WindPlay, the wonderful software created by Richard Brandle
for use with the PowerRoll. However, these files are not compatible
with Macintosh -- they work only with WindPlay. Mr. Stahnke offers a
CD with 350 Ampico selections, (approx.) 60 Duo-Art selections, 60
Welte Licensee selections and 60 QRS (88-note) selections.
WindPlay has certain advantages, such as a visual roll "scrolling" on
your screen, means to adjust tempi, a means to customize your play list,
etc. However, if you have a MIDI "juke box" program for your
Macintosh, then you can stack and scroll Spencer Chase's files in the
same manner.
Spencer Chase himself would (I am sure) be pleased to answer your
questions. But if you have a Duo-Art and a Macintosh, you should not
be dissuaded from purchasing a PowerRoll. I can tell you that I
personally own a Macintosh, Duo-Art and PowerRoll, and have obtained
good results. (However, I bought a used Windows laptop for $200 to use
with the PowerRoll so I didn't keep having to lug my Macintosh desktop
computer around the house!).
All the best,
Timothy Baxter
Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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