Polyend Synth - MIDI Terms; Basic MIDI Concepts for Synth

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Polyend Synth Manual
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Polyend Synth Manual
NOTESNOTES
MIDI & Connectivity
8
MIDI & Connectivity
8
8.1 MIDI Terms
To clarify some of the generic terminology and technology around MIDI, a
summary of key denitions is provided. Synth uses a Type B, TRS to MIDI
Adapter. Also MIDI over USB is possible.
5 PIN MIDI 5 PIN to TRS MIDI
MIDI DIN 24
This is often found for MIDI
Out and Thru and enables
syncing of devices. This uses
0v & 5v messages as sync
signals at 24 pulses per
quarter note (PPQN) as a
MIDI standard.
MIDI CC
MIDI Continuous Control
change messages are used to
communicate messages
across MIDI with values of 0-
127. CC Changes affect
parameter values while note
data triggers notes. Synth has
some dened CC assignments.
SYSEX
System Exclusive. This is an
expansion of the normal MIDI
communications set up and is
typically used for transferring
data such as back ups,
patches, presets and
rmware updates to and from
devices. Not supported by
Synth.
MIDI
Musical Instrument Digital
Interface. A protocol for
communicating between
electronic musical gear.
Never connect MIDI gear to
incompatible DIN signals.
Synth has USB MIDI but also
an interface for 5 Pin DIN In
and out.
MIDI STANDARDS
While there are MIDI
standards dened, many
synth developers interpret
this in slightly different ways.
Its always worth reviewing
the documentation with each
to fully understand each
device level implementation.
MSB & LSB
Most Signicant Byte and
Least Signicant Byte. MSB
provides the 128 data
resolution which is ok for
most MIDI applications. More
advanced devices use MSB
and LSB values increasing
resolution to 16,384 steps.
MIDI DIN 48
This is used for MIDI Out and
Thru and enables syncing of
classic devices. This uses 0v
& 5v messages as sync
signals at 48 pulses per
quarter note (PPQN). Less
common in modern synths.
MIDI PC
MIDI Program Change allows
presets or banks to be
controlled over a MIDI
connection. Synth recognises
PC messages to select the
current Synth preset.
NRPN
Non-Registered Parameter
Number is part of the MIDI
standard. CC and NRPN are
technically very similar but
NRPN is less well dened in
the standards. NRPN uses
more data and can give
better control. Not supported
by Synth.
The term ‘primary lead’ will refer, in this guide to a device that has the main control responsibility.
For example controls the clock and transport and is the central lead. A device which will be
controlled by, and follows the primary lead device and which will be subservient by responding to
the main control messages will be called a ‘secondary follower’.
8.2 Basic MIDI concepts for Synth
Synth has a MIDI USB plus a MIDI TRS Input and Output in order to
connect between compatible devices. The settings for MIDI are found in the
main menu under the MIDI sub-menu. The notes of the synth can be
controlled by an external MIDI Keyboard plus Control Change CC and
Program Change PC messages can be received.
The following points should be considered and questions answered when
working with MIDI congurations:-
• How the devices are connected together? Are the devices
connected by USB? Which will transmit and receive MIDI with the
MIDI 5 Pin connection using the MIDI Jack adapter? Synth can use
one or the other or both.
• Which device will be a primary leader (main device e.g. controls the
main clock) or a secondary follower (will respond to other gear e.g.
synchronised to another clock)? Synth will issue a warning message
if the external MIDI clock assigned from the primary device is lost or
is disconnected.
• When Synth receives a MIDI clock the tempo will reect the external
controller BPM. Synth can also send a clock out. Also incoming
transport for play / stop and Synths MIDI settings will affect the
sequencers.
• The default CC congurations in Synth are pre-dened. Check the
device MIDI mappings for each connected device in the
manufacturers documentation.
• Synth does not support MIDI NRPN or Sysex messages.
• Synth operates internally with 96 PPQN - Pulses Per Quarter Note
for MIDI Timing but communicates at 24 PPQN.
USB
Synth is powered via the USB-C,
also communicates MIDI.
MIDI Out / In
Connect to MIDI DIN gear using the
Type B, TRS to 5 Pin adapter
Out MIDI Out MIDI In Micro SD
USB Power