6.1 MIDI Basics and Protocol

MIDI is the language of digital music, allowing instruments and devices to communicate seamlessly. It's not about audio signals, but rather performance data that tells devices how to create sound. This foundational protocol revolutionized music production, enabling complex arrangements and precise control.

Understanding MIDI basics is crucial for navigating modern music production. From controllers and synthesizers to sequencers and sound modules, MIDI connects it all. Grasping concepts like channels, notes, and controllers empowers you to harness the full potential of your digital music setup.

MIDI Fundamentals

MIDI Definition and Data

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• MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) establishes a technical standard for connecting electronic musical instruments, computers, and audio devices
• MIDI data controls various sound aspects
  • Pitch
  • Velocity
  • Vibrato
  • Panning
  • Tempo
• MIDI specification defines hardware and software protocols enabling standardized communication between devices and applications
• MIDI transmits performance data interpreted by compatible devices to generate sound, not audio signals

Key MIDI Terminology

• Sequencer records, edits, and plays back MIDI data for complex musical arrangements
• Synthesizer generates audio signals, often controlled by MIDI data to produce various sounds
• Controller (keyboard, drum pad, wind controller) generates MIDI data based on user input
• Program change alters the instrument or sound preset on a MIDI device
• Patch refers to a specific sound or instrument setting in a synthesizer or sound module

MIDI System Components

Input and Output Devices

• MIDI Controller generates MIDI data from user input
  • Examples: MIDI keyboard, drum pads, wind controller
• MIDI Interface connects MIDI-equipped instruments to computers
  • Facilitates MIDI data exchange between devices
• Synthesizer produces audio signals controlled by MIDI data
  • Can be hardware-based or software (virtual instruments)
• Sound Module contains various instrument sounds triggered by MIDI messages
  • Often used with MIDI controllers lacking built-in sounds

Data Processing and Routing

• Sequencer records, edits, and plays back MIDI data
  • Hardware sequencers (standalone devices)
  • Software sequencers (DAW applications)
• MIDI Thru, In, and Out ports enable MIDI data transmission between multiple devices
  • MIDI In receives incoming MIDI data
  • MIDI Out sends MIDI data to other devices
  • MIDI Thru passes incoming MIDI data to additional devices without modification

MIDI Message Transmission

Message Structure and Timing

• MIDI messages transmitted serially at 31.25 kilobaud
• Typical message structure
  • Status byte identifies message type and channel
  • One or two data bytes provide specific information
• Asynchronous transmission sends messages only when changes occur
  • Minimizes data flow and reduces latency
• Running status optimization technique
  • Omits status byte for subsequent messages of the same type
  • Further reduces data transmission

Synchronization and Specialized Messages

• MIDI Time Code (MTC) coordinates timing between devices
  • Provides absolute time reference for synchronization
• MIDI Clock sends tempo-based timing information
  • Typically used for synchronizing tempo-dependent devices (drum machines, arpeggiators)
• System Exclusive (SysEx) messages allow for device-specific data transfer
  • Used for patch dumps, firmware updates, and custom parameter control

MIDI Channels vs Notes vs Controllers

MIDI Channels

• Virtual pathways for MIDI data transmission
  • Up to 16 independent streams on a single MIDI cable
• Channel assignment enables multi-timbral arrangements
  • Different instruments or sounds on separate channels
• Message types affecting channels
  • Channel Voice Messages impact specified channel only
  • Channel Mode Messages affect entire MIDI device

MIDI Notes

• Represent musical pitches defined by note numbers (0-127)
• Note messages include
  • Note On initiates sound with velocity information
  • Note Off terminates sound, also with velocity data
• MIDI note number mapping
  • Middle C typically assigned to note number 60
  • Each semitone increase/decrease adjusts note number by 1

MIDI Controllers

• Continuous controllers (CCs) enable real-time parameter control
• Controller identification uses numbers 0-127
• Common standardized controllers
  • CC 7 for volume control
  • CC 10 for stereo panning
  • CC 1 for modulation wheel
• Device-specific controllers allow for unique parameter adjustments
• Controller manipulation methods
  • Physical controls (knobs, sliders, wheels)
  • Software interfaces in DAWs or MIDI editing applications