This video demos using the Akai APC40 like a monome:

Blinken Park on the APC40 sending midi through the IAC driver to Ableton Live 8. We don’t need no stinking Monome.

This video demos Stylophone music sequencing using a MIDI mod with Ableton Live.

Jay from Livid demos the new $399 Livid Block MIDI control surface, working with Ableton Live 8:

The audio is from my band Sinch’s sinch.net 2006 EP Subdivisions, Bluskreen created the samples and they are available under a cc license here bluskreen.com/soundshare.php

Here’s another Ableton Live 8 + Livid Block demo video:

Click here to view the embedded video.

You don’t need any special drivers or apps to do this – the Livid Block is plug and play.

Just when you think it’s safe to buy that cool matrix sequencer MIDI controller monome thing you’ve been jonesin’ for, out pops the $399 Livid Block matrix sequencer MIDI controller monome thing.

Description:

The Livid Block is a compact programmable MIDI control surface designed for interactive audio performance. Built on the same bi-directional and adaptable platform as the Livid Ohm64, Block provides an interface for creating and interacting with sound in a small easy-to-transport body.

Sixty-four LED buttons provide visual feedback with the instrument by connecting it to Ableton Live, Max/MSP,  pen source sounds apps, or any other software that supports MIDI.

The open source blockEditor application lets you reprogram any of the controller’s sixty-four clip buttons, eight knobs, two faders, and seven function buttons. Block is hand crafted from lightweight wood and aluminum for easy portability.

Block has bi-directional talkback communication allowing the controller to talk to your software, and software to your device. MIDI messages can be sent to the Block to light up the buttons for an interactive performance. Completely programmable and mappable, Block provides a flexible control surface that be used with any software or setup. Completely USB powered means you don’t have to worry about adapters and and power strips, and it is plug and play so no drivers are required.

The Livid Block is expected to be available starting Nov 1st for $399.

More details and photos below!

Features:

• Portability – A compact and lightweight design lets you slip this controller into your backpack. Plug it into your computer’s USB, and you are powered to play.
• Design – Block is completely plug and play and USB powered. This means you don’t need drivers to use it and it works with a single USB cable.
• TalkBack – Reprogrammable buttons with LED talkback provides visual feedback by sending MIDI commands back to the controller.
• Software – A growing collection of open source sound applications and utilities provide a wide range of uses and endless customization.
• Home Grown – Handcrafted by artists in Austin, Texas.

Specs:

• 10.25″ x 10.25″ x 1.5″ (WLH) / weight 3 lbs. (26 cm x 26 cm x 3.8 cm, 1.36 kg)
• USB Powered
• Bi-Directional MIDI communication (talkback)
• Class-compliant: no drivers needed for Mac, Windows, or Linux.
• 64 Programmable backlight buttons for talk-back and interactive performance
• Programmable MIDI mapping allows you to change the MIDI settings on the hardware
• Anodized Aluminum Faceplate
• Open Source software tools to create your own LED talkback interaction
• Editor included for MIDI editing, and LED talkback programming
• Made in the USA
• Compatible with any software that supports MIDI learn
• ROHS compliant
• USB cable included

Here’s what’s new:

• Logic 9.01 improvement.
• Revised RTAS wrapper to allow plug-in updates.
• Nocturn Keyboard enhancements.
• Updated DAW set-up guides improvements.

Download here.

Bug Fixes:

• Fixed issue with keyboard settings with SL MkII and Nocturn Keyboard.
• Fixed display issue with dynamic port menu with SL MkII and Nocturn Keyboard.
• Fixed issue with quitting Automap while using Logic 9.01.
• Fixed issue with updating RTAS plug-ins with new wrapper system.
• Fixed issue with dual mono RTAS plug-ins on Pro Tools HD.
• Fixed problems with updating Automap template when memory protect is set to on.
• Fixed issue with encoder 2 and mod wheel clash with Nocturn Keyboard.
• Updated Novation Automap Control.remotemap for Reason/Record.
• Added iPhone HUI mapping as default.
• Added mappings for Pro Tools native plug-ins and Logic 9.01 native effects.

This overview of the new Eigenlabs Eigenharp comes via the Eigenharp Roadshow at Air Studios.

More details about future roadshows is available at the Eigenlabs site.

Ableton Live 8: This video demos a Nanoloop 1.5, running on a GameBoy, synced to Ableton Live.

via littlescale:

Nanoloop 1.5 (Game Boy) Synced to Ableton Live. Game Boy music by Gutterkisser.

Moon Modular has released a new teaser video – this time for their new MIDI2Clock M553 module, running with the Moon Modular M569 step sequencer.

Paired with the M569, it looks like Berlin School style step-sequencing nirvana.

Update: Here’s additional info, via Moon Modular:

The M553 is a module, which converts a MIDI clock into analog clock and gate-signals, to synchronize, for example, analog step-sequencers to MIDI-hardware- or software-sequencers.

The MIDI clock (MIDI real time message) has a native resolution of 1/96 notes (24 ticks per quarter note) of which the M553 derives the following signals:

Variable Clock

The divider value of the left clock-output can selected among the MIDI original clock (1/96) and these fractions:

• 1/48
• 1/32
• dotted 1/32
• 1/16
• dotted 1/16
• 1/8
• dotted 1/8
• 1/4

Fixed Clock

The right clock-output supplies a fixed clock signal, divided down to 1/16 notes.

Start/Stop

Whenever the MIDI device puts out start- and/or stop/reset-commands, these jacks supply relevant trigger-signals to e. g. – control an analog sequencer via suitable inputs – or reset an analog sequencer – skip notes, trigger switches etc.

Note-on

Both „Note-on >C3“ and „Note-on <_C3“ jacks supply gate signals, derived from MIDI note-on commands. This way the user can utilize one ordinary MIDI-track in a MIDI (software-)sequencer to create two streams of defined trigger signals, to be used – via the M553 – to synchronize/control analog equipment.

The left output generates a gate signal, whenever a MIDI note- on command below C3 (= MIDI note number 1-59) reaches the module. The right output reacts accordingly, if a note-on command of C3 or above (= MIDI note number 60-127) arrives in the M553‘s input.

These „note-on to gate“ activities work in parallel to the „normal“ MIDI to clock conversion.

Midi-Channel

To select the MIDI channel (for the „note-on to gate“ function): Dial the rotary switch to the„channel select“ position and initiate a MIDI-channel message (e. g. strike a note on a keyboard); the module sets itself to the most recently received MIDI channel (this setting is saved even if the unit is switched off).

via moonmodular:

The new MIDI2CLOCK M553 module soon on sale.

In this tutorial, Gareth Williams demonstrates how to quickly set the Jazzmutant Lemur to do sound design using Ableton Live.

Part 2 below.

Click here to view the embedded video.

via Jazzmutant:

What
You now have the opportunity to get a Yamaha CS70m Midi retrofit by Kenton Electronics UK. It will be a redesign of the Kenton kit that was discontinued due to parts availability quite some years ago.

Scroll down to the end of the document to read the specifications.

How
This is a group buy, which means that we need at least 10 prepaid orders to start the production. Production and distribution will be approx 8 weeks.

Price
349 UK pounds + VAT which needs to be paid in advance to Analog Sweden. If we don’t reach 10 prepaid orders by the 1st of October 2009, your money will be promptly returned. Shipping cost not included.

Ordering & Questions
Use the contact form here

Deadline
October 1, 2009

Installation
The kits are not intended for installation by the end user. They should always be fitted by an experienced synth engineer. The kits are built and tested before dispatch. DIY-kit NOT available. Analog Sweden can do the installation.

Background
We at Analog Sweden have had a few enquiries about CS70m retrofits, so we got in touch with Kenton to investigate the possibilites for a new production run. Kenton wanted to have a group order to start the production, and here we go.

CDM’s Peter Kirn has put together a very nice look at the new Cakewalk V-Studio 100, an example of a new class of all-in-one computer music devices. .

The Cakewalk V-Studio 100 features:

• High Speed USB 2.0 Audio Interface
• Universal DAW Controller
• Personal Digital Mixer
• SD WAV Recorder
• VS Production Pack suite of virtual instruments and effects (Mac/Win)
• SONAR VS digital audio workstation (Win)

About the V-Studio 100, Kirn says:

At US$699 street, there are cheaper options around, but by the time you add a control surface, a mobile recorder, a mixer, and an audio interface together, it’s a different picture. There are also other control surface-mixer-interfaces out there, but some skimp on audio quality while others lack the VS’ elegant compactness.

The VS still counts as the most control, mixing, and audio functionality I’ve seen in any backpack-friendly box. And as such, for the laptop music production warrior wanting to maximize space and power, it’s part of a handful of essential gear to consider.

If you’re a Sonar user, checking out the Cakewalk V-Studio is a no-brainer. The V-Studio offers Mackie Control support, though, so it’s an option to consider for use with other apps, too.

See CDM’s coverage here.

Kenton Electronics has introduced the USB Solo – a MIDI to CV converter for analog synthesizers. The USB SOLO replaces their 14 year old MIDI to CV converter, the Pro Solo.

The Kenton USB Solo is available now for £130. Details below.

Features for USB SOLO

• Designed to control all types of mono-synth
• Super-fast response time
• Famous Kenton build quality
• Rugged brushed aluminium case
• CV and Aux1 outputs use high specification 16 bit D/A converters for rock-steady pitches
• Gate / S-trig output configurable output to match virtually any synth
• Aux2 & Aux3 outputs are on-off only (zero or 5V)
• Dedicated DIN socket output for Sync24
• CV/Gate/Aux1,2,3 outputs on 3.5mm jack sockets (3.5mm to 1/4″ cables are available in our cables section)
• Any MIDI channel can be selected
• Switchable for V/oct & Hz/V & 1.2V/oct scaling systems
• Fine tune & scale are software controllable
• Transpose (coarse tune) – up & down 12 semitones
• Adjustable pitchbend range
• Programmable Gate V-trig (up to 15v) or S-trig (with or without pull-up)
• Multiple and single trigger modes – adjustable re-trigger time
• Note priority selection – newest / lowest / highest
• Old notes are remembered to facilitate trill effects and increase playability
• Portamento – fixed rate or fixed time modes
• Auto Portamento mode selectable (where legato playing turns on Portamento)
• Portamento Controller is selectable
• Programmable Auxilary outputs controllable by any MIDI controller
• Programmable LFO – 9 wave shapes inc. random
• LFO can modulate pitch &/or AUX output
• Separate Controllers for LFO to CV and LFO to AUX
• LFO can be synchronised to MIDI clock
• LFO sync point can be selected
• Key-on can reset LFO
• Aux3 output can output clock – Aux2 can output stop-start
• Clock output can select from 1 to 12, 24, or 48 clocks per quarter note
• All parameters are controllable in real-time by SysEx
• Set-ups are stored in non-volatile memory for easy recall
• 40 memory locations for store / load
• MIDI monitor mode – for easy MIDI troubleshooting
• USB powered
• Size 130mm x 97mm x 40mm
• Suitable for use with XP / Vista / MAC OS-X v10.2 onwards / Linux

Improvements over Pro-Solo mkII

• USB connection – faster data transfer
• Has 40 memories which can be stored and recalled
• Setups pre-loaded for popular synths
• Dedicated DIN Sync-24 output
• Aux 2 & 3 on 3.5mm jacks
• Variable gate-off time for re-trigger (multiple trigger)
• LFO start point can now be selected for Sample & Hold too
• Aux 2 & 3 have adjustable threshold
• Program changes can be used to recall memories

This is a Loop Shaper tutorial. In less than 4 min., it teaches you how to use Loop Shaper with Percussa AudioCubes.

2009 Summer NAMM Show: Akai has announced the MPK61, the fourth model in the company’s line of keyboard/MPC performance controllers.

Description:

The MPK61 is a keyboard performance MIDI controller that expands the popular MPK line.

Each MPK controller combines a piano-style keybed with a bank of genuine Akai Professional MPC pads, assignable Q-Link controllers and some of the technologies from the icon MPC. The MPK61 offers a mix of 61 semi-weighted keys with aftertouch, 16 MPC pads with velocity and pressure sensitivity, 72 assignable Q-Link, MPC Note Repeat, MPC Swing and an arpeggiator.

The MPK61’s size is ideal for performers who need a larger range than the original 49-key MPK49 offers, but also prefer the lighter weight and associated portability of a semi-weighted keyboard. The MPK61 retains the key split features from the MPK88, enabling the performer to divide the keyboard into two zones for performing with two different programs at once.

Like its 25, 49 and fully weighted 88-key siblings — the MPK25, MPK49 and MPK88, respectively, the MPK61 empowers musicians to create and manipulate melodic, harmonic and rhythmic content and manipulate quickly with its arpeggiator, MPC Swing and MPC Note Repeat technologies.

The MPK61 comes with Ableton Live Lite Akai Edition software, one of the most popular and powerful performance and production programs worldwide. Ableton Live Lite enables musicians to spontaneously compose, record, remix, improvise, and edit musical ideas in a seamless audio/MIDI environment.

The MPK61 is a MIDI controller that sends MIDI values over USB for plug-and-play performance with Mac and PC. Because they are MIDI compliant, the MPK series works with virtually all MIDI recording, sequencing, and performance software for musical performers from keyboard players to producers to DJs and VJs.

The MPK61 performance keyboard controller will be available from professional audio and musical instrument retailers Q3, 2009.

We never thought that we’d live to see “MIDI-Controlled”, “Fire” and “Cannon” go together in one nice, juicy Synthopia headline, but there you go.

Absolute proof that there’s still reason to wake up in the morning.

This video captures a demonstration of Rob Darman’s completely mental MIDI-controlled Fire Cannon.  The cannons are controlled by MIDI notes being sent from Steven Asaro’s Roland V-Drums. Notes are decoded using an MSA-T MIDI Decoder.

You play the drums, fire shoots out the cannon.

Anybody else want to see this beast do battle against MIDI-Controlled Tesla Coils?

Psylab and MIDI Controlled Fire Cannon Cover Michael Jackson

Click here to view the embedded video.

via psylab:

Special thanks to Jeff Mission for MIDI technical support and translations via GlovePIE.

MrBook has shared documentation on his awesome hack to add MIDI to the Gakken SX-150 synthesizer.

Here’s what you’ll need to turn the Gakken SX-150 into a MIDI synthesizer:

• Gakken SX-150 Analog Synthesizer Kit
• Arduino (This one is the classic, but my favorite ones, are the ones from Modern Device)
• MCP4921 12-bit DAC
• 4N28 Optoisolator
• 1/4” Audio Jack
• DIN 5 Pin Chassis Socket (Female MIDI plug)
• Diode (N4148)
• Resistors(220 ohm, 100k ohm and 3.3k ohm)
• Wire, breadboard (or wherever you wanna do the circuit), soldering stuff and patience.

Details at MrBooks’ site. See this previous post for a demo of the Gakken SX-150 being sequenced by Ableton Live.

Before we get into the meat and potatoes of this post, it’s worth noting that:

• Controlled By Reason sounds like an unauthorized biography of Leonord Nimoy; and
• Mark Of The Unicorn is a great name for a music technology company, if it’s the 1980’s and you play a lot of D&D; and
• Behind every classic Sequential Circuits synth, there’s a guy in a wizard cap.

All that being neither here nor there – this video captures Peff using the Reason/Thor MIDI to CV conversion process with a couple of bad Moogerfoogers:

The MF-107 FreqBox oscillator output is connected directly into the MF-101 Low pass filter. Thor’s key note value, mod wheel, pitch bend, aftertouch, LFO, and envelope generators all modulate the two pedals to create a functional monophonic synthesizer.

See Peff.com for details.

via PeffTV:

http://www.peff.com/journal/2009/06/17/moogerfooger-synth-via-reason-40/ moogerfooger MF-107 FreqBox and MF-101 LP Filter controlled by Reason to create a monophonic moogerfooger synthesizer. The Thor Polysonic synthesizer converts MIDI and Reason CV signals into DC signals like MOTU Volta, and using a MOTU 896HD interface, the control signals are routed to the moogerfoogers. The Thor programming matrix allows the signals to be scaled so that the oscillator responds to a musical scale. Also used is a MF-104Z Analog Delay.

“With the MIDI Mobilizer, the iPhone becomes the most portable and versatile editor and tone storage device for your Line 6 gear,” remarked Line 6 co-founder Marcus Ryle as he demonstrated a prototype this morning at Apple’s annual Worldwide Developers Conference.

When used with Rig Remote, MIDI Mobilizer gives guitarists the freedom to control Line 6 Variax digital modeling guitars and Vetta II digital modeling amplifiers.

There isn’t much detail available yet on MIDI Mobilizer yet, but it looks like iPhone 3.0 WILL kick ass for music after all.

Planet Waves’ Rig Remote app features an graphical display that takes a nod from the Line 6 software commonly used to adjust Variax and Vetta II tones via personal computer. The iPhone display and touch screen make it simple to scroll, choose and adjust models of amps, guitars, pickups, pickup placement, alternate tuning and more. Guitarists can easily save their favorite settings and apply them to any Variax guitar or Vetta II amplifier.

MIDI Mobilizer and Rig Remote 1.0 are currently in development, with pricing, availability, and more detail on the complete feature set to be announced at a future date.

This video tries to answer the question “What is MIDI?”

via SynthGnosis:

Midi stands for Musical Instrument Digital Interface. Midi is not sound whatsoever, rather, it is a signal. That is one misconception about it. In this video I’ll explain the basics of it for those who don’t know what it is and what it can do for you.

Midi is simply sending a signal to your computer or some other musical device. Since it’s dealing with signals, just think of a midi controller being like a videogame console controller (SNES!) that sends a signal when you press a button on the pad, or being just like the keyboard (typing) that’s sitting right in front of you.

Midi is a little more advanced than the signaling that I talked of above because it deals with music, and with music there are a lot of variables. For example we have a velocity range which goes from 0 to 127, and velocity is how hard or soft you hit a key on your controller. It also tells whichever hardware or software that you’re sending the signal to exactly which note you’re playing and how long you hold it for. It can get a bit more advanced, but those are the basics.

Midi is a great way to record sort of a ‘DI’ and go back to replace or switch out the sounds of a synthesizer or piano performance. Learning the basics of midi is essential to any musician these days, and you don’t necessarily have to play keys to fool with it. Anyone can PROGRAM midi.

CME has introduced the WIDI-XU, a wireless MIDI interface housed in a Flash drive profile.

The WIDI-XU is the smallest member of the WIDI family, needing no MIDI IN/OUT port, just an USB plug. Plug it into your computer, to enable wireless Duplex MIDI data transfer with other CME WIDI products.

The WIDI-XU provides one-to-multi communication; one WIDI-XU can connect to many wireless MIDI devices, up to 64 MIDI channels. The WIDI-XU also has the same capability as other larger WIDI products, for example: 80m maximum wireless range, powerful error correction with automatic notes-off and on-line detection etc.

Features:

• USB class compliant for Win XP and Mac OS X, supporting hot plug. No driver needed.
• The working band is 2.4GHz ISM.
• USB RF transmission mode.
• Duplex wireless MIDI data transfer.
• Manual switching for one-to-multi communication (auto finding and selecting).
• Low power consumption, high speed, powerful error correction with automatic notes-off and on-line detection.
• Maximum wireless transfer distance is 262 feet without obstacle. (Your mileage may vary)
• 64 radio channels for MIDI data transfer, with manual or automatic radio channel setting mode.
• When connected to computer via USB, this product will be automatically recognized as the USB Audio Device, fully support MIDI data stream, compatible with Cakewalk, Sonar, Cubase etc.
• Automatic searching, manual or automatic channel setting and other system function can be controlled by the special MIDI SysEx command from USB.
• Powered and upgrade program via USB.
• Indicator for signal and power.