MIDI Controller : What is it?
| MIDI controllers produce audio signals and transmit them to computers or other MIDI-enabled devices. They are used to enter sound clips to computers for mixing or editing. They usually take the form of a musical instrument, such as guitars and keyboards, and transmit data in digital form. Most MIDI controllers require a separate or bundled MIDI software to facilitate transfers. |
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Kinds of MIDI Controllers include the following: |
MIDI control devices
MIDI control devices take the form of musical instruments such as keyboards, guitars, and percussions. They only produce sound when connected to MIDI devices. They often include sound controls such as modulation wheels and pitch bends.
Electronic musical instruments
Electronic musical instruments simulate the sound of common instruments using existing samples or actual inputs. They are used to enter sounds in real time, simultaneously producing notes and transferring them to computers.
Pitch-to-MIDI converters
Pitch-to-MIDI converters record specific pitches from a sample and convert them into corresponding MIDI signals. They are used for recording human voice and monophonic instruments like flutes.
MIDI sensors
MIDI sensors pick up sounds from traditional instruments and transmit them in real time to a computer. They work the same way as pitch-to-MIDI converters, but are able to convert polyphonic sounds.
Sequencers
Sequencers retrieve stored sound clips and send them to MIDI instruments. They are used to reproduce performances and mix samples.
MIDI machine control (MMC) devices
MMC devices control synchronization when recording from computers. They are commonly used when working with devices in various formats.
MIDI show control (MSC) devices
MSC devices control various production aspects in addition to sound. These include lighting, rigging, and video playback. They are often used to create elaborate presentations combining video and sound. |
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Connections: Choose a MIDI controller with a USB or FireWire computer connector. USB connections are ideal if you work from different computers because they have broader compatibility. Choose a FireWire controller if you work with large files and multilayered sounds, because they allow faster transfers.
Data recognition: Choose a MIDI controller that accepts a wide range of file formats. This is usually indicated by the number of knobs or sliders on the controller. Look for one with six or more knobs. Also look for multiple controllers such as joysticks, wheels, and buttons for handling various MIDI messages. |
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