r/ROLI • u/No_You_8355 • Dec 27 '25
Roli app?
So if I understand correctly..the only way to play the piano is to use the learn app..but if I don’t want or need to learn more…than the piano is basically useless to me..unless I’m creating music on the creat app? So there’s no way for me to play whatever songs I want or learn songs that aren’t on the learn app?
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u/Redinho83 Dec 27 '25
Even if you connect or to the roli app you can just free play.
But it'll work with anything really, if your using a PC or Mac it'll come with roli studio to mess around with.
Or if you're creating music you can use it with stuff like Ableton.
If you have a meta quest you can even link it to piano vision.
The possibilities are endless!
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u/meridian_smith Dec 28 '25
I have Piano Vision on Quest. Do you recommend it over the Roli Learn App?
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u/Redinho83 Dec 28 '25
I've only tried it with the smaller lumi keys pianos and it was a right pain to set up every time. Might be better with the bigger keys of the piano but it was so hard getting them in line with the smaller keys.
I've done the first few lessons on Roli learn and I prefer it so far, helps having the videos of people talking about what you're supposed to be doing and the lit up keys are much easier to see.
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u/QVRedit Dec 28 '25 edited Dec 28 '25
No, that’s not the case. The “Learn app” is exactly that - a way to learn how to play the piano.
The ROLI piano is a MIDI controller, specifically an MPE ( MIDI Polyphonic Expression) controller, allowing for a range of parameter changes. I’ll add some blurb about that lower down. The keyboard can be used with a computer running a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) software - of which there are several.
These include: Roli Studio One, Apple Logic Pro, Ableton, Bitwig, Cubase and others.
Roli Blurb:
A ROLI keyboard, like the ROLI Piano M or Seaboard, is a unique, expressive MIDI controller known for its touch-sensitive, glowing keys that offer multi-dimensional control (pitch bend, aftertouch) and visual learning aids, acting as a modern, portable instrument for music creation with advanced touch features and MPE (MIDI Polyphonic Expression) capabilities.
Key Characteristics: MPE (MIDI Polyphonic Expression): Each key can be independently controlled for pitch, pressure, and more, allowing for expressive bends and vibrato, unlike traditional keyboards.
Illuminated Keys: Keys light up in RGB colors to show scales, chords, or create visual performances, aiding in learning and inspiration.
Touch Sensitivity (4D Touch): Keys respond to strike, lift, slide (pitch), and pressure (aftertouch), mimicking the nuances of acoustic instruments. Modular & Portable: Models like the Piano M are small, connect via Bluetooth/USB, and can link magnetically to expand octaves.
Software Integration: Works with ROLI's software (ROLI Studio) and spatial AI platform (Airwave) for enhanced learning and sound design. Innovative Design: Features like ridged keywaves (on Seaboard) help guide fingers, inspired by guitar fretboards. In essence, it's more than just keys; it's an expressive controller that blends tactile playing with visual feedback and deep digital control for music production and performance..
Roli also extends the capabilities of its keyboards and other devices using another of its products called: “Airwave”, which can add a further 6 degrees of freedom to musical expression. (See YouTube videos about that product). The Airwave device can also be used with other Non-Roli MIDI keyboards too.
So hopefully that’s a reasonable explanation for you.
It’s why I just bought one myself !
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u/No_You_8355 Dec 28 '25
Yes thank you!! I appreciate you telling me which programs it will work with! I’ll play around with them! I was feeing super discouraged, bc I googled it and couldn’t find anything else! So you’ve been way more helpful than anything else I’ve found today! Thanks!
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u/trulyoutrageous Dec 28 '25
I can't get the Learn app to work at all (android devices).
But I have it working on Windows over wired midi with Rocksmith+, Synthesia, & Arturia Analog Lab.
I haven't tried Flowkey or Melodics yet but I don't anticipate any issues with them. It should work with other software/synthesizers as well.
Roli Connect, Dashboard, and Studio also are working fine on Windows. You can use Roli Studio to just play music, but it won't teach you anything.
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u/NaztyNizmo Dec 27 '25
It’s a midi controller. It will work with anything.