Unable to send Pattern Change messages from Bitwig

Hi guys

Firstly hello, first post here - I did do a search but couldn’t find anything related specifically to my issue…

I’ve recently purchased a Digitakt 2 and have been really enjoying using it via Overbridge in Bitwig, the issue I’m having is that I’m unable to send Pattern Change messages back to the Digitakt. When I send MIDI to channel 16 on the Digi, from notes C-2 and above there’s no change - however this works completely fine for me in Ableton.

Am I missing something really obvious here in the way Bitwig handles MIDI?

Cheers

Did you try chatgpt ? I’ve no idea if any of this is true.

Yes, Bitwig Studio can send MIDI Program Change messages, but there are a few important things to know about how it’s done:

:white_check_mark: How to Send Program Changes in Bitwig Studio:

  1. Use the HW Instrument Device (for external gear):
  • Add the “HW Instrument” device to a track.
  • Select your MIDI output port.
  • Click on the wrench icon (device inspector) to open parameters.
  • Here, you can set Program Change, Bank MSB, and Bank LSB.
  1. Use the “Program Change” automation lane:
  • You can automate program changes by adding a Program Change automation lane to the track.
  • Right-click on the track header and choose “Add Automation Lane” > “Program Change” (if available for your device).
  1. Send Program Changes via Clips (MIDI clips):
  • Open a MIDI clip and click the clip launcher inspector.
  • You’ll see options for Program, Bank MSB, and Bank LSB under MIDI Clip Settings.
  • This change gets sent when the clip is launched.
  1. Third-Party VSTs or MIDI Tools:
  • Some VST instruments or MIDI effects (like MIDI Shaper, CcStepper, or other MIDI utilities) can send program changes if Bitwig’s built-in tools are too limited for your needs.

:brain: Notes:

  • Not all VST plugins respond to program changes — some ignore them completely.
  • If you’re working with external synths, ensure the MIDI channel and port match the device settings.

Let me know if you want a specific example (e.g., setting up a clip to change patches on a synth).

I was doing this the other night with my Prophet 6. The automation lane thing was what threw me for a few mins. Though pretty cool

Unfortunately, at least for me, it seems ChatGPT is lying in this occasion

Please don’t do this.