Category: Music equipment
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VC-1: Volume control for guitar using Arduino
As explained here, here and here, the VC-1 is a volume control for guitar (or bass) that can use a potentiometer, a variable analog signal or a Midi command to change the output volume.
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Akai MPK261: One more thing using Sysex…
In a previous post, I explained how to control preset changes on the mPK261 using SysEx commands. In this post, I explain how to get the MPK2 series to show some tricked pad colors.
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MIDI experiments: A simple MIDI tester
While doing some research to build a simple MIDI tester, I started to study the “real world” MIDI electrical specifications out there. I also experimented with various MIDI equipment and measured some voltages. A simple MIDI tester MIDI specifications imply that a MIDI OUT circuit always provides +5 Volts, on pin 4, in reference to circuit ground,…
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My ultimate versatile MIDI connection board: Versatility is the key
My Ultimate Versatile Midi Connection Board I work with Midi, a lot. I often have to plug equipment for testing instruments, circuits and interfaces. I often need to connect more than one device to a computer or micro-controller. So I decided to build the ultimate versatile MIDI connection board that I could modify, tweak, and install…
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Akai MPK261 (MPK2 series): Controlling the controller with SysEx
In this (very) technical post, I explain a method that will give you better control over the behavior of your Akai MPK2 series keyboard (tested on an MPK261). The goal is to be able to select one of the 30 “presets” stored in the keyboard on demand, without touching a button on the controller. A side benefit is…
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Review: Alyseum AL-88c Midi Interface
UPDATE : 2016/10 Alyseum, the makers of this hardware product, have discontinued its manufacturing. They have a new product out, the U3-88c. It’s a USB 3 interface that provides similar functionalities, minus the Copperlan interface. The Alyseum AL-88c is a midi interface with 8×8 Midi ports (8 Midi IN and 8 Midi OUT). If you…
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REVIEW: Akai mpk261 keyboard
AKAI MPK261 This is a review of the Akai MPK261 Midi Keyboard. You can find the detailed specifications on the Akai website. I only explain the particularities that are not obvious on the web site. Most of the information here applies to MPK249 and MPK261. Some of it applies to the MPK225.
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REVIEW: IKMultimedia iRig Blueboard
The iRig Blueboard is a small pedal board that uses bluetooth to connect to a computer or a mobile device and sends Midi commands to any application listening for it. The Hardware The idea is that a compact pedal makes a lot of sense when you, as a musician, want to be as mobile as possible.
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Alesis Vortex: Modify the Ribbon Controller behavior
Some Keytar players use both hands on the keyboard part to play more complex notes arrangements. When I need to do that, I use a regular keyboard. As explained in a previous post, “I have seen keytar players “cross-under” the support strap to use their left hand on the (small) keyboard part. I have tried…