Midi via usb on a laptop

[ChrisLucas]

Hi

I'm looking into the possibility of driving our new FLX from my laptop via usb and a midi interface of some kind. For shows I use Multiplay which is a brilliant FREE show sound package and it has the option to control midi devices as it can send midi control codes.

I would like to trigger the master go button via these codes.

 

1. Is this possible?

2. What usb to midi convertor would I need?

 

Thanks in advance

 

Chris Lucas

Buckley Theatre Club

 

 

[keredyelesob]

It is posible. From what i remember from a similar post if you use midi show control then this activates the master go. If you use midi time code then can activate a specific cue.

 

As for usb to midi i would say any will do providing it is transmiting the midi standard. I use a cheap usb to midi dongle i found on ebay to control our sound cues with no problems.

 

I hope this helps you a bit with getting your midi up and running.

[Jon Hole]

Be careful of purchasing the cheaper cables. Have a look at this for more info:

http://www.arvydas.co.uk/2013/07/cheap-usb-midi-cable-some-self-assembly-may-be-required/

 

We've found these cables often work with MIDI TimeCode (MTC) and MIDI Notes, but not with MIDI Show Control (MSC)

[ChrisLucas]

Hi Keredyelesob and Jon

 

Thanks for the info. Good to know it should work.

 

I think I'll go for the Roland one mk2. It's a lot dearer but the reviews are much better. Only complaints were the price. I don't like some of the reviews on the cheap ones and the article you mentioned Jon was not clever. I can't be bothered tinkering with one just to make it work. Don't know how long it would last and I'd rather not take a chance with our new desk.

 

Cheers Both

Chris