One for the Midi Boffins

AUX · 2014-07-24T13:37:44.000Z

I am trying to simplify my setup whilst maintaining my workflow.

Currently, I am using numerous midi devices to do the job and will need to add more unless I can find one unit that can do the role of all.

I have no computer in my setup (except for tracking) so the unit must be able to operate “standalone.”

My main issue is midi feedback loops.

Here goes.

Octatrack out to - MD (pattern change/clock)
- Sub Phatty (sequencing/clock)
- Mopho X4 (sequencing/clock)
- Bass Station 2 (sequencing/clock)

Octatrack in from -MPD (CC Control)
-Sub Phatty (note input)
-Mopho X4 (note input)
-Bass Station 2 (note input)
(I like to sequence and play)

MD in from -MPD (CC Control/pads)

Is there one device that can do this for me without issues? For instance, sending midi from Octa to BS2 and sending midi from BS2 to Octa without the loop??

Motu Midi Express XT looks like a candidate , but it is difficult to get a concrete answer on whether this will do what I need.

Big thanks to anyone who can contribute…

udenjoe · 2014-07-24T17:12:13.000Z

You should be able to do this. I’ve done similar with my Indigo 2 sending notes to OT. I’m also using a midi solutions quad thru box to send from OT to everything.

Set your BS2 to send on the Midi Auto channel set on the OT.

Make sure all of the other devices don’t use the same channel. Just to be safe.

Set up your midi tracks in the OT to match the other device channels.

Make sure the Audio channel Midi CCs are off. The manual says this doesn’t seem to matter. Just to be sure.

I would use one keyboard as the input to OT. Then select the track that is set to the channel of the other keyboards on the OT. Learn the auto channel feature, it’s great!

Start simple. Set up the OT with BS2 first (the x4 might be a better kb?). Mess around with the settings, channels, etc. until the feedback loop stops. Then start adding the other pieces. I don’t think it will be possible to have all keyboards for note input.

Maybe one keyboard > MPD > OT > thrubox > everything (including keyboard).

I would just use transport to run the MD and not use the controller to it. It already has controls!

I hope these help.

Edit: Page 128 of the manual.http://www.elektron.se/sites/default/files/products/files/octatrack_manual_OS1.25.pdf

NRain · 2014-07-24T17:37:18.000Z

I have used both, the Express XT or Micro Express have great routing and filtering options and would suit your needs, both can be used standalone (computer required for preset setup) Micro requires USB power but there is ways to provide USB power without a computer.

AUX · 2014-07-25T05:13:26.000Z

Hi Udenjoe.
In your recommendation you would need a merger going into Octa (out/thru to in) and the keyboard at the end would cause a midi loop. This is what I was trying to avoid. The MD isn’t really an issue in this respect and I need sync… Thanks for giving it a crack!

NRain the XT looks like the all in one solution.
Just trying to weigh up my options. I could get another cheap merger and another synth/master keyboard for the price of the XT!

jeffe · 2014-07-25T18:26:47.000Z

MPC 2500 - you will have to chain some inputs via midi thru, but really, and especially with the jjos, there is no more powerful midi device out there than an proper mpc.

a 60, 3k, or 4k might be useful too but i’m not as up on those machines, i just know they have lots of midi ports.