What is a MIDI controller?
The Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) controller is a device that sends MIDI signals to a MIDI-enabled device, such as a computer or synthesizer, to control variables such as pitch, volume, velocity, vibrato, panning, and cues. The MIDI controller does not produce sound on its own but rather acts as a remote control for other devices that do.
MIDI controllers come in various forms, including keyboards, drum pads, and even wind instruments. They can be used to play virtual instruments, sequence music, and control lighting in live performances.
History of MIDI controllers
The concept of MIDI was first introduced in the early 1980s as a standard protocol for electronic music devices to communicate with each other. Before MIDI, there was no universal standard, making it difficult for instruments from different manufacturers to interact. The introduction of MIDI revolutionized the music industry by enabling a new level of interaction between devices.
The first MIDI controller was the Sequential Circuits Prophet 600, a synthesizer introduced in 1982. Since then, MIDI controllers have evolved in complexity and functionality, with modern controllers offering a wide range of control options and integration with various software.
Development of MIDI standards
The MIDI Manufacturers Association (MMA) and the Association of Musical Electronics Industry (AMEI) are responsible for the development and maintenance of MIDI standards. These organizations ensure that all MIDI devices adhere to the same protocol, allowing for seamless interaction between devices from different manufacturers.
The MIDI standard has undergone several updates since its inception, with the most recent being MIDI 2.0. This update introduced new features such as increased resolution, more channels, and improved expressiveness, further expanding the capabilities of MIDI controllers.
Types of MIDI controllers
MIDI controllers come in various forms, each offering different control options and catering to different musical needs. The most common types are keyboard controllers, pad controllers, and control surfaces.
1. Keyboard controllers
Keyboard controllers are the most common type of MIDI controller and resemble traditional pianos. They come in various sizes, from 25 keys to 88 keys, and often include additional controls such as knobs, sliders, and buttons. Keyboard controllers are versatile and can be used for a wide range of musical genres.
2. Pad Controllers
Pad controllers feature a series of pads that can be used to trigger sounds, loops, or sequences. They are popular in electronic music and hip-hop, where they are used for beat-making and live performances. Pad controllers often include additional controls such as knobs and sliders for further sound manipulation.
3. Control surfaces
Control surfaces are MIDI controllers that mimic the layout of a traditional mixing console. They offer controls for volume, pan, EQ, and other parameters, making them ideal for mixing and mastering. Control surfaces often include motorized faders, which can move automatically to reflect changes in the software.
How MIDI controllers work
When a key or pad on a MIDI controller is pressed, it sends a MIDI message to the connected device. This message includes a note-on message, which contains the note's pitch and velocity, and a note-off message, which signals the end of the note. Other controls on the MIDI controller, such as knobs and sliders, send control change messages, which adjust parameters such as volume and pan.
Integration with software
MIDI controllers are often used in conjunction with digital audio workstations (DAWs), software applications used for recording, editing, and producing audio files. DAWs include virtual instruments, which can be played using a MIDI controller, and effects, which can be controlled using the controller's knobs and sliders.
Most DAWs offer MIDI-learn functionality, which allows the user to assign the controls on their MIDI controller to parameters in the software. This enables a high level of customization and control, allowing the user to tailor their setup to their specific needs.
