what to do with MIDI? Help!

**bouldersoundguy** · 02-10-2013

Before going to buy MIDI cables read the manual for your keyboard (or maybe just look at it) to determine if it has its own USB port. Many MIDI keyboards connect to the computer with USB so there would be no need for a MIDI interface. If it doesn't have USB for the MIDI then consider getting a combo audio/MIDI interface.

**ecc83** · 02-10-2013

There are really 3 types of MIDI keyboard (whether or not they make their own sounds)

First is the really cheap ass'ed type that just has a usb port. This can play data into a PC and might have some "controller" functions but that's about it.

Next is keyboard like my Evolution Ekey49. This has usb but also a DIN MIDI out so it can control/play another device/PC. Handy for us because we have two PCs, this old P4 that connects and powers the Evo via usb and a bigger, better W7 jobbie that runs from the DIN. Thus we do not have to faff about swopping usb plugs. (both computers have a 2496 soundcard in them).

Thirdly, and these are often a lot more money, is the type with usb and MIDI DIN in and out. These kbds can also work as a MIDI interface and allow the connection of other MIDI gear.

I will take this opportunity to say that not fitting MIDI ports to an audio interface is being a cheap a'ed illegitimate in the extreme IMHO! If you already HAVE a box with a processor in it and most AIs do, then fitting a couple of DINs and associated tronics is trivial. Ok, something with one mic and a guitar jack for 50quid I will allow but get to a ton and they really should have MIDI!

Dave.

**bouldersoundguy** · 02-10-2013

Originally Posted by ecc83

I will take this opportunity to say that not fitting MIDI ports to an audio interface is being a cheap a'ed illegitimate in the extreme IMHO!

So those of use who just record real sounds should subsidize MIDI users' gear?

**ecc83** · 02-10-2013

Originally Posted by bouldersoundguy

So those of use who just record real sounds should subsidize MIDI users' gear?

Absolutely!

Must add all of two quid to the price and you never know when you might want to use a controller!

Dave.

**crystal_andersn** · 02-11-2013

i don't work with MIDI (but i know what it is) and I noticed that one of my stereo pedals (the boss sl-20 slicer) accepts a midi input which i assume can be used to control the BPM of the machine (there is no digital readout its just knob twiddling) by a midi clock source.

my question is: is it as simple as getting a proper cable and downloading a free app for iphone or mac osx to input a midi clock source? maybe what i'm looking for is a no-brainer but the apps i have seen get pretty mind-boggling for someone that does not work with midi. i just need to generate a clock signal and be able to modify that signal (not necessarily on the fly), like a metronome that you do not hear.

**brahma jay** · 02-11-2013

Originally Posted by ecc83

There are really 3 types of MIDI keyboard (whether or not they make their own sounds)

First is the really cheap ass'ed type that just has a usb port. This can play data into a PC and might have some "controller" functions but that's about it.

Next is keyboard like my Evolution Ekey49. This has usb but also a DIN MIDI out so it can control/play another device/PC. Handy for us because we have two PCs, this old P4 that connects and powers the Evo via usb and a bigger, better W7 jobbie that runs from the DIN. Thus we do not have to faff about swopping usb plugs. (both computers have a 2496 soundcard in them).

Thirdly, and these are often a lot more money, is the type with usb and MIDI DIN in and out. These kbds can also work as a MIDI interface and allow the connection of other MIDI gear.

I will take this opportunity to say that not fitting MIDI ports to an audio interface is being a cheap a'ed illegitimate in the extreme IMHO! If you already HAVE a box with a processor in it and most AIs do, then fitting a couple of DINs and associated tronics is trivial. Ok, something with one mic and a guitar jack for 50quid I will allow but get to a ton and they really should have MIDI!

Dave.

i think 3rd option is good but not sure how much will it cost. what brands would you recommend?

**brahma jay** · 02-11-2013

but do i need a midi keyboard if i have midi in my synth?
If i have it in my synth - the only one thing that i need is Midi interface, right?

**ecc83** · 02-11-2013

Originally Posted by brahma jay

but do i need a midi keyboard if i have midi in my synth?
If i have it in my synth - the only one thing that i need is Midi interface, right?

If you have a "synth", that is to say a keyboard that connects to the computer via usb then all it can do it produce its own sounds and trigger "softsynths" in the PC. You have no other MIDI outputs to control anything else nor any inputs (i.e. another computer. Think about that one!)

Time was, peeps bought a decent soundcard such as my 2496's which HAD MIDI ports on it. Or, they bought an AI, usb or FW and again, almost always there was MIDI! Keyboards and controllers, sound modules, portasounds and £2000 synths only had DIN so there was no option and no confusion. Now we have usb MIDI devices and usb MIDI interfaces (there is even a usb MIDI host! Varder Kenton.com) But the fact remains that if you want a versatile, flexible MIDI setup get a card or an AI with 'king MIDI. AND a keyboard with at least a MIDI out.
Yes, 2 port, interfacing synth/controllers tend to be very pricey. I am just a bottle jockey who dabbles to help a musical son, I would not care to recommend something I have no hands on knowledge of.

Dave.