6.2 MIDI controllers and interfaces
2 min read•july 22, 2024
MIDI controllers are essential tools in electronic music production, offering diverse options for creating and manipulating sounds. From keyboard and drum pad controllers to control surfaces and wind controllers, these devices provide intuitive ways to interact with digital audio workstations and virtual instruments.
USB and 5-pin DIN interfaces connect MIDI controllers to computers and other devices, enabling communication between hardware and software. Proper configuration and mapping of MIDI controllers in DAWs unlock their full potential for both studio recording and live performance, enhancing creativity and workflow.
MIDI Controllers
Types of MIDI controllers
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A Novation Remote 25 two-octave MIDI controller View original
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Top images from around the web for Types of MIDI controllers
A Novation Remote 25 two-octave MIDI controller View original
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NI Officially Reveals Komplete 10, Kontrol Keyboards [Details, Gallery] - CDM Create Digital Music View original
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Off-White Noise: Akai MPK mini & Reason View original
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A Novation Remote 25 two-octave MIDI controller View original
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NI Officially Reveals Komplete 10, Kontrol Keyboards [Details, Gallery] - CDM Create Digital Music View original
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- Keyboard controllers resemble traditional piano keyboards and are used for playing and recording MIDI notes, often including pitch and modulation wheels, octave shift buttons, and other controls
- Drum pad controllers feature a grid of velocity-sensitive pads used for playing and programming drum patterns and triggering samples ( MPD series, Maschine)
- controllers offer faders, knobs, and buttons for mixing and controlling DAW parameters, used for mixing, , and plugin control (, )
- Wind controllers resemble wind instruments like saxophones or clarinets and use breath pressure and fingering to control MIDI notes and expression (Akai EWI, )
- Guitar and bass controllers resemble traditional guitars or basses and use strings and fretboard to control MIDI notes (, )
USB vs 5-pin DIN MIDI interfaces
- USB MIDI interfaces connect MIDI devices to computers using USB ports, are powered by the USB connection, and enable bi-directional communication for sending and receiving MIDI data
- 5-pin DIN MIDI interfaces are traditional MIDI connectors used in older devices, require separate MIDI IN, MIDI OUT, and MIDI THRU ports, offer unidirectional communication for sending or receiving MIDI data, and require an external power supply
MIDI controller configuration in DAWs
- involves selecting the appropriate MIDI input device in the DAW's preferences and ensuring the controller is recognized and receiving MIDI data
- assigns MIDI controls (knobs, faders, buttons) to specific software parameters using the or manual mapping in the DAW, and allows saving and recalling MIDI mappings for future use
- Controller-specific software may require installing and configuring any required drivers or software for the MIDI controller and using dedicated software for advanced programming and customization
MIDI controllers for performance and recording
- involve using MIDI controllers to:
- Play virtual instruments and trigger samples in real-time
- Assign performance controls (pitch bend, modulation) for expressive playing
- Create and switch between different controller mappings for different songs or sections
- Studio recording techniques involve using MIDI controllers to:
- Record and edit MIDI notes in the DAW
- Utilize and velocity editing to refine MIDI performances
- Automate plugin parameters using MIDI controller mappings
- Integrate MIDI controllers with hardware synthesizers and drum machines
Key Terms to Review (20)
5-pin DIN MIDI interface: The 5-pin DIN MIDI interface is a standardized connector used to transmit Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) data between electronic musical instruments, computers, and other devices. This interface allows for communication of performance information, such as note on/off messages, control changes, and other parameters, facilitating synchronization and control in music production and performance setups.
Akai: Akai is a well-known brand in the music technology industry, primarily recognized for its innovative MIDI controllers and digital audio products. These devices are widely used by musicians and producers to create, edit, and perform music in a digital environment. Akai's products, such as the MPC series, combine sampling capabilities with MIDI functionality, making them essential tools for electronic music composition and live performances.
Automation: Automation in electronic music refers to the ability to program changes in parameters over time, allowing for dynamic alterations in sound, effects, and mix levels. This process enables musicians to create evolving soundscapes and precise control over various elements of a composition, significantly enhancing expressiveness and complexity.
Control Surface: A control surface is a hardware device designed to control software applications, particularly in digital audio workstations (DAWs), through physical knobs, faders, buttons, and pads. This tactile interface enhances the user experience by allowing for more intuitive and expressive interaction with music software, bridging the gap between digital and analog workflows.
Fishman TriplePlay: The Fishman TriplePlay is a wireless MIDI guitar controller that allows guitarists to convert their performance into MIDI data for use with virtual instruments and music software. This innovative device enables guitarists to trigger sounds from synthesizers, samplers, and other MIDI-compatible hardware without being tethered by cables, enhancing creative possibilities and performance flexibility.
Live performance techniques: Live performance techniques refer to the various methods and practices used by musicians and electronic artists to deliver engaging and dynamic performances in real-time. These techniques often leverage technology, particularly MIDI controllers and interfaces, to manipulate sounds, create improvisation, and enhance audience interaction. Mastering these techniques allows performers to adapt their set based on the audience's reaction, fostering a unique experience each time they perform.
Mackie Control: Mackie Control is a protocol for MIDI controllers that allows for the integration of hardware control surfaces with digital audio workstations (DAWs). This system facilitates hands-on manipulation of software parameters, enabling users to adjust levels, panning, and effects in a more tactile manner. By using Mackie Control, users can streamline their workflow, making the process of recording and mixing more intuitive and efficient.
Midi drum pad: A midi drum pad is a type of MIDI controller designed specifically for triggering drum sounds and samples through the use of pressure-sensitive pads. These controllers allow musicians and producers to play, record, and manipulate drum patterns and rhythms in real-time, providing a tactile interface for creating electronic music. They often come with various features such as velocity sensitivity, customizable MIDI mappings, and built-in sounds or software integration.
Midi input configuration: MIDI input configuration refers to the process of setting up and managing the connection between MIDI devices and a digital audio workstation (DAW) or music software. This configuration is essential for ensuring that MIDI controllers can communicate effectively with the software, allowing for seamless control of virtual instruments, effects, and other parameters. Proper MIDI input configuration includes selecting the appropriate MIDI ports, setting up channels, and adjusting preferences to optimize performance.
Midi keyboard: A MIDI keyboard is a device that allows musicians and producers to input musical data into a computer or digital audio workstation (DAW) using MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) protocol. This tool typically resembles a traditional piano keyboard, providing musicians with tactile control over virtual instruments and software synthesizers, which enhances creative expression and facilitates music production.
Midi learn function: The MIDI learn function is a feature in digital audio workstations (DAWs) and software instruments that allows users to easily map MIDI controller inputs to software parameters. This feature simplifies the process of assigning knobs, sliders, or buttons on MIDI devices to control various aspects of a virtual instrument or effect, enhancing workflow and making it more intuitive to create music.
Midi mapping: MIDI mapping is the process of assigning specific MIDI messages to control parameters in software and hardware instruments, allowing users to customize their interaction with music production tools. This technique enhances the user experience by enabling real-time manipulation of sound and effects, creating a more dynamic musical performance. By establishing these connections, MIDI mapping can significantly impact everything from software synthesizers to live setups, fostering creativity in both composition and performance.
Native Instruments: Native Instruments is a leading software and hardware company known for creating digital music production tools, including software synthesizers, virtual instruments, and audio effects. Their products enhance the music-making process by providing musicians and producers with innovative solutions that integrate seamlessly with MIDI controllers and interfaces, enabling expressive performance and creativity.
Presonus FaderPort: The Presonus FaderPort is a compact and versatile control surface designed for use with digital audio workstations (DAWs), featuring a motorized fader, transport controls, and customizable buttons. It enhances the workflow for musicians and producers by providing hands-on control over mixing and recording processes, making it easier to manipulate audio tracks in real-time. This tool integrates seamlessly with MIDI interfaces, allowing for precise adjustments and streamlined navigation within a DAW environment.
Quantization: Quantization is the process of mapping a continuous range of values into a finite range of discrete values, often applied in digital audio and MIDI sequencing to ensure that notes and rhythms align perfectly with a predetermined grid. This technique is crucial for achieving precision in timing and pitch, allowing for tighter rhythmic performances and consistency in playback across various platforms.
Roland GK-3: The Roland GK-3 is a guitar synthesizer pickup that allows electric guitars to interface with MIDI devices, transforming the way guitarists create and perform music. This device enables guitar players to trigger MIDI sounds and control synthesizers directly from their instrument, providing greater versatility and expanding the range of musical possibilities available. The GK-3 is designed to be mounted on the body of a guitar, capturing note information and converting it into MIDI data.
USB MIDI Interface: A USB MIDI interface is a device that facilitates communication between MIDI instruments and computers via a USB connection. This type of interface allows for the transmission of MIDI data, which includes musical performance information such as notes, velocity, and timing, enabling seamless integration of hardware synthesizers or controllers with digital audio workstations (DAWs) and software instruments.
Velocity sensitivity: Velocity sensitivity refers to the feature in MIDI controllers and electronic instruments that allows the response of the instrument to vary based on how hard or soft a note is played. This means that when a musician strikes a key with different levels of force, the instrument can produce varying volumes or timbres, leading to more expressive and dynamic performances. The ability to capture nuances in playing styles is essential for programming drums and triggering samples accurately, making it a crucial element in modern music production.
Wind controller: A wind controller is a specialized MIDI instrument designed to emulate the playing techniques of traditional wind instruments, allowing musicians to control sound generation through breath and finger actions. These devices capture breath pressure, embouchure, and fingering, translating them into MIDI data for synthesizers or sound modules, effectively merging acoustic performance with digital technology.
Yamaha WX5: The Yamaha WX5 is a MIDI wind controller designed for musicians seeking to control synthesizers and other MIDI-capable instruments using breath and finger pressure. This instrument allows for expressive performance, mimicking the feel of playing a traditional wind instrument while integrating seamlessly with digital music production setups. Its design facilitates easy playability and adaptability, making it popular among electronic musicians.