MIDI channel assignments in the studio

natar · 2024-03-03T04:12:53.346Z

I have a few pedals and rack mount gear I’d like to start controlling from Ableton (OTO machines, Quadraverb, etc.). I already have things wired up to receive clock but curious how other people set up their channel assignment when dealing with more than like, one synth. Start from 1 and go up? Maybe start from 8 for effects? What do you do and how do you stay organized?

jdaddyaz · 2024-03-03T05:07:29.065Z

Do you plan on keeping things setup semi-perminate?

natar · 2024-03-03T17:00:03.681Z

Yeah, more or less permanent, fixed assignment at least

JES · 2024-03-03T17:04:47.615Z

Some devices want to be on certain channels so I check that first. Then you can just count up and make a document that you can edit if anything changes. One potential issue is MIDI latency if everything is on a serial chain. It may not be an issue for you but if you’re having timing issues, it might be worth it to check.

Tchu · 2024-03-03T17:46:18.000Z

When my full studio is wired up, Digitakt MIDI Tracks control my Synths via a MIDI Thru box. Digitone and Octatrack control my FX pedals via their MIDI Outs. With minor configurations, the MIDI Out « resets » the MIDI Channels so that you can use another 16 Channels. The External Audio FXs are handled with an 8 In/8 Out Audio Interface.

alexwasashrimp · 2024-03-03T20:53:17.547Z

I prefer not using the first few channels, as they can be fixed on some gear (such as the Medusa in the multi mode).