MIDI Splitting Problems

[Yourssincerely]

Hi guys, just thought I'd try asking here to see if anyone knew some solutions to some of my MIDI splitting problems. First off, I'm running an Mbox 2 with pro tools 8 which has only one MIDI in and out. I'm looking for a way to split those inputs and outputs so I can run multiple keyboards into Pro Tools so that I can play different virtual instruments simultaneously, and at low cost. Now, I understand that there are MIDI splitting cables, so you can put 2 MIDI input devices in at the same time, but does this show up on Pro tools as 2 separate inputs, or is there the same amount of inputs (just the one) with 2 instruments on the same track recording different notes?

 

[ssscientist]

Each midi input can handle 16 separate data streams. In midi-speak, these are called channels and instead of splitting cables this is how you record and control multiple keyboards, modules, soft synths and soft effects into your digital audio workstation.

You only need one keyboard into a single midi input to access multiple sound sources, be they softsynths or other hardware keyboards. Any splitting of the midi signal takes place on the midi out side, and only if you are running multiple hardware keyboards or midi modules and are having a problem with midi delay when you are using midi thru to connect more than 3 units to the same midi out stream.

Try this - plug one keyboard into the midi in of your interface and set the 'local control' to 'off'. This will break the connection between the keyboard and the sounds inside. Then connect the midi out of your interface to the midi in of the same keyboard. Then connect your second keyboard from the midi thru of the first keyboard to the midi in of the second keyboard. This setup should allow you access to both the sounds in both keyboards and any softsynth you may be running inside the computer.


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