Tag: controller

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Difference Between MIDI Module and A Software Synth

The difference between a MIDI module and a software synth lies in their physical form, functionality, and the way they integrate with other musical equipment and production environments. Both are used to generate sounds based on MIDI input, but they serve different roles in music production.

MIDI Module

What is a MIDI Module?

A MIDI module, also known as a sound module or tone generator, is a hardware device that generates sound in response to MIDI data. It doesn’t have a built-in keyboard, so it requires an external MIDI controller (such as a keyboard or computer) to trigger the sounds.

Key Features of MIDI Modules:

  • Hardware-Based: MIDI modules are physical devices that often come with various sound libraries, ranging from pianos and strings to synthesized sounds.
  • Standalone Operation: They can operate independently of a computer and are often used in live performances or studio setups where reliable, hardware-based sound generation is preferred.
  • Preset Sounds: Most MIDI modules come with preloaded sound banks, often based on the General MIDI (GM) standard, as well as additional proprietary sounds.
  • Connection: MIDI modules typically connect to other devices via MIDI cables, though many modern modules also support USB and other digital connections.
  • Dependability: As hardware devices, MIDI modules are often prized for their reliability and low latency, making them suitable for live performances where stability is critical.

Examples of MIDI Modules:

  • Roland JV-1080: A popular rack-mounted sound module with a wide range of sounds.
  • Yamaha Motif Rack: A module version of the Yamaha Motif synthesizer series.
  • Alesis NanoSynth: A compact module offering a variety of sounds.

Software Synth

What is a Software Synth?

A software synthesizer, or soft synth, is a virtual instrument that runs on a computer or mobile device. It generates sound digitally and is controlled via a MIDI controller or directly within a digital audio workstation (DAW).

Key Features of Software Synths:

  • Software-Based: Soft synths are programs or plugins that operate within a DAW or as standalone applications.
  • Flexibility and Customization: They often offer extensive sound design capabilities, allowing users to create, modify, and save custom sounds.
  • Vast Libraries: Software synths can access massive libraries of sounds and samples, often far exceeding the capabilities of hardware MIDI modules.
  • Integration with DAWs: Software synths integrate seamlessly with DAWs, allowing for easy automation, effects processing, and multi-track recording.
  • Portability: Since they are software, soft synths can be installed on laptops or other portable devices, making them highly convenient for on-the-go music production.
  • Cost-Effective: Often, soft synths are more affordable than hardware MIDI modules, especially considering the vast range of sounds and features they offer.

Examples of Software Synths:

  • Serum by Xfer Records: A popular wavetable synthesizer known for its high-quality sound and visual interface.
  • Native Instruments Massive: A software synth widely used for electronic music production.
  • Spectrasonics Omnisphere: A comprehensive soft synth with an extensive library and powerful sound design tools.

Key Differences

  1. Physical Form:
  • MIDI Module: A physical, standalone hardware device.
  • Software Synth: A virtual instrument that runs on a computer or mobile device.
  1. Sound Libraries:
  • MIDI Module: Typically comes with preset sound banks, often based on the GM standard and other proprietary sounds.
  • Software Synth: Offers vast and often expandable libraries, with more flexibility in sound design and customization.
  1. Integration:
  • MIDI Module: Connects to MIDI controllers or other instruments via physical MIDI connections.
  • Software Synth: Integrates directly with DAWs and other software, often controlled via USB MIDI controllers.
  1. Latency and Reliability:
  • MIDI Module: Known for low latency and high reliability, making them ideal for live performances.
  • Software Synth: Dependent on the computer’s processing power; latency can vary, and reliability may be affected by system stability.
  1. Portability:
  • MIDI Module: Portable but requires additional hardware (MIDI controller).
  • Software Synth: Extremely portable, as it can be installed on laptops or mobile devices.

Why Choose One Over the Other?

  • MIDI Module: Ideal if you need a reliable, low-latency solution for live performance or prefer hardware-based sound generation. They are also a good choice if you want to avoid relying on a computer for sound production.
  • Software Synth: Best suited for those who require flexibility, customization, and seamless integration with a DAW. Soft synths are ideal for studio work, sound design, and situations where a vast array of sounds and effects is needed.

Conclusion

Both MIDI modules and software synths have their own strengths and are suitable for different applications. MIDI modules are reliable, hardware-based solutions favored in live settings, while software synths offer greater flexibility and integration in digital music production environments. The choice between the two depends on your specific needs, whether you prioritize portability, sound customization, reliability, or the breadth of available sounds.

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What is a MIDI Sequencer?

MIDI Sequencer

In the world of digital music production, a MIDI sequencer is an essential tool. It allows musicians and producers to create, edit, and play back music by managing MIDI data. This blog will focus on sequencer software for computers but will also touch on the fact that many keyboards come with built-in sequencers.

What is MIDI?

Before diving into MIDI sequencers, let’s briefly recap what MIDI is. MIDI, or Musical Instrument Digital Interface, is a protocol that allows electronic musical instruments, computers, and other devices to communicate. It sends instructions on how to play notes, rather than the audio itself. This makes MIDI a powerful tool for composing and arranging music.

What is a MIDI Sequencer?

A MIDI sequencer is a device or software that records, edits, and plays back MIDI data. Think of it as a digital music sheet that can capture every note and expression you play on a MIDI instrument. Sequencers can be either hardware (like those built into some keyboards) or software that runs on a computer.

Software MIDI Sequencers

Software MIDI sequencers are applications you install on your computer. They offer a wide range of features and flexibility, making them popular among musicians and producers. Here are some key aspects of software MIDI sequencers:

  1. Recording: You can record MIDI data from your keyboard or other MIDI instruments directly into the sequencer. This captures the notes you play, along with velocity (how hard you hit the keys) and other performance nuances.
  2. Editing: Once recorded, MIDI data can be edited with precision. You can change notes, adjust timing, tweak velocities, and add or remove control changes. This level of detail allows you to perfect your performances and compositions.
  3. Playback: MIDI sequencers can play back your MIDI data through virtual instruments or external hardware. This lets you hear your compositions with different sounds and instruments.
  4. Arrangement: You can arrange your MIDI recordings into complete songs. Most sequencers support multiple tracks, so you can layer different instruments and parts to create complex arrangements.
  5. Integration: Software MIDI sequencers often integrate with digital audio workstations (DAWs), allowing you to combine MIDI sequencing with audio recording and production. This makes them powerful tools for music production.

Built-in Sequencers in Keyboards

Many modern keyboards come with built-in multi-track sequencers. These hardware sequencers offer similar functionalities to software sequencers, including recording, editing, and playback of MIDI data. While they might not offer the same depth of features as computer-based sequencers, they are convenient for live performances and on-the-go music creation. Here are a few advantages of built-in sequencers:

  1. Portability: You don’t need to carry a computer to use a built-in sequencer. Everything you need is within the keyboard, making it great for live performances and mobile music production.
  2. Ease of Use: Built-in sequencers are often designed to be user-friendly, allowing musicians to quickly record and arrange their music without needing to navigate complex software interfaces.
  3. Integration: Since the sequencer is part of the keyboard, integration with the instrument is seamless. You can easily access the sounds and features of the keyboard while using the sequencer.

MIDI SequencersWhy Use a MIDI Sequencer?

MIDI sequencers are invaluable for several reasons:

  • Creativity: They allow for experimentation with different arrangements, sounds, and compositions.
  • Precision: You can fine-tune every aspect of your performance, ensuring that your music sounds exactly how you want it.
  • Efficiency: Sequencers make it easy to record and edit music, saving time compared to manual methods.
  • Flexibility: With software sequencers, you can use a wide range of virtual instruments and plugins, expanding your sonic possibilities.

In conclusion, a MIDI sequencer is a powerful tool for any musician or producer. Whether you use software on a computer or the built-in sequencer in a keyboard, the ability to record, edit, and play back MIDI data opens up endless creative possibilities. Understanding and utilizing MIDI sequencers can significantly enhance your music-making process, allowing you to create more complex and polished compositions.

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Sending Program Changes With MIDI

When it comes to electronic music, MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) is a game-changer. One of its powerful features is the ability to send program changes. This means you can switch instruments or sounds on your MIDI device with just a simple command. Let’s dive into how this works and why getting your MIDI connections right is crucial.

What are Program Changes?

Program changes are MIDI messages that tell your electronic instrument to switch to a different preset sound or instrument. For example, you could switch from a piano sound to a guitar sound on your synthesizer without physically touching the instrument. This is incredibly useful during live performances or when recording in a studio, as it allows for smooth transitions between different sounds.

Setting Up MIDI Connections

Before you can send program changes, you need to ensure your MIDI devices are connected correctly. MIDI devices typically have MIDI In, MIDI Out, and sometimes MIDI Thru ports. Here’s a simple way to understand them:

  • MIDI In: Receives MIDI data from another device.
  • MIDI Out: Sends MIDI data to another device.
  • MIDI Thru: Passes MIDI data received at MIDI In to another device (used for daisy-chaining multiple devices).

It’s essential to connect the MIDI Out of your controller (like a keyboard) to the MIDI In of your sound module or synthesizer. If these connections are incorrect, your devices won’t communicate, and no program changes will happen.

Sending Program Changes

Once your devices are connected, sending a program change is straightforward. Most MIDI controllers have buttons or dials that can send program change messages. Many devices manage and send program change MIDI messages automatically in the background, when you select the desired sound.

For example, if you want to switch to a piano sound, you might select program number 1. If you want a guitar sound, you might choose program number 25. The specific numbers can vary based on the General MIDI standard or the specific setup of your device.

Using the Learn Function

Many modern MIDI software and keyboards come with a “learn” function. This feature makes mapping MIDI controls to specific software parameters incredibly easy. Here’s how it works:

  1. Activate Learn Mode: In your software (like a digital audio workstation or DAW), find the MIDI learn function. It’s often a button labeled “Learn” or “MIDI Learn.”
  2.  Select the Control: Click on the software parameter you want to control (e.g., volume slider, effect knob). In this case we want the patch/program selector.
  3.  Move the Control: Move the corresponding control on your MIDI device (e.g., turn a knob, press a button). The software detects this movement and maps the control to the selected parameter.

This process ensures that your MIDI controller and software are perfectly in sync, making it easier to control your music.

Why It’s Important

Getting your MIDI connections right and understanding how to send program changes can significantly enhance your music-making process. It ensures that your instruments respond correctly to your commands, whether you’re performing live or working in a studio. Additionally, using the learn function simplifies the setup process and makes it easier to customize your controls.

In summary, sending program changes with MIDI opens up a world of possibilities for musicians. By connecting your devices correctly and utilizing features like the learn function, you can streamline your workflow and focus more on creating great music. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced musician, mastering these MIDI basics is essential for taking your music to the next level.

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MIDI Fighter 3D – Compact MIDI Controller

midiFighterI came across this cool little MIDI controller and thought I would share it with you all. It’s called the MIDI Fighter 3D.

FEATURES
  • Accurate, detailed precision on all axis
  • Full motion tracking of tilt, pan, and rotation.
  • Map accelerometer data to any midi-compatible effect or software
  • Traktor Pro, Ableton Live and Serato Scratch official mappings
  • Customizable, animated LED color rings

The general sense I get is that the MIDI Fighter 3D is designed for live performances, but I can see how it couldn’t be useful in recording applications as well.

What do you think? Ever tried it?
Share your experiences with us.

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Looptimus MIDI Controller, Great Looking New Kickstarter Project

UPDATE: The Looptimus is now in production and can be purchased here.

Looptimus USB MIDI Foot Controller Stomp boxes and foot pedals are standard gear for guitarists all over the world.  But for some reason that trend hasn’t caught on yet for keyboardists and computer musicians. Perhaps this little box will change that.

It’s called the Looptimus USB MIDI Foot Controller, and looks like it could add some pretty cool real-time functionality to live performance software. Designed to integrate with your computer through a USB MIDI interface this little box is configurable to navigate through sections of songs, start/stop, rearrange live sets, and much more I’m sure.

The Kickstarter project is going on NOW (Sept.10.2013), and they could use your support. Link: http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/loopcommunity/looptimus-usb-midi-foot-controller  This looks like a great new tool. If you do any LIVE performances with software, or you just want to help out a good cause, consider supporting this new venture.

FEATURES:

  • 20 Banks, A – F for each Bank
  • All-Access Bank for quick switching
  • 16 MIDI Channel Options
  • 1 Dedicated STOP button (single MIDI note)
  • 9 Rock-Solid, Momentary switches
  • USB MIDI connection
  • Expression Pedal Jack (for Roland Rv-5 or equivalent)
  • 3 Digit LED Display
  • USB Bus Powered!
  • 9v optional power jack
  • Aluminum Enclosure, Black powder coated
  • 6 ft. USB Cable included
  • 8×5″ x 5″ x 1.5″

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Axis 64 Midi Controller

OK, I’m all for innovation and changing the way we do things for the better. So in the spirit of experimentation I thought I would post this cool MIDI controller I found online.

This guy, Peter Davies, redesigned the musical keyboard arranging the keys based on harmonic table.

Take a look. It’s pretty cool looking.

My initial thoughts are… what about velocity sensitivity and after touch. But these are issues that I’m sure could be addressed easily enough.

Let me know what you think of this device.
Do you like it?
Have you used it?
What are the drawbacks or benefits?