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Appendix
E-MU Systems 64
APPENDIX
MIDI Background
MIDI Channels & Continuous Controllers
MIDI continuous controllers may seem confusing at first, but they are really very
simple once you understand them. You probably already know that there are 16
MIDI channels per MIDI cable. Information on a MIDI channel will only be
received by an instrument set to receive that channel. MIDI channels are usually
associated with different sounds. In this way, up to 16 sounds per MIDI cable can
be separately controlled.
Each MIDI channels uses three basic types of messages; note on/off, preset
changes, and continuous controller messages. When you play the keyboard, the
Xboard transmits information about which notes were played and how hard.
The Xboard can also send continuous controller information from its 16 knobs, pitch
and mod. wheels as well as aftertouch from the keyboard (key pressure applied after
the notes have been pressed). These controls are used to add more expression or
control.
The controller knobs send out information on separate continuous controller
numbers. There is a set of 128 continuous controller numbers (0-127) for each
MIDI channel. Some continuous controllers, such as modulation wheel, volume,
and pan have standardized numbers. For example, volume is usually sent on
continuous controller #7.
Normally, the Xboard controller knobs and wheels transmit on a single MIDI
channel, but each of the 16 knobs and wheels can be programmed to transmit on
a different MIDI channel if you so desire. See page 50
for more information.
MIDI
Channel 1
Note
On/Off
Program
Change
Continuous
Controllers
MIDI
Channel 2
Note
On/Off
Program
Change
Continuous
Controllers
MIDI
Channel 3
Note
On/Off
Program
Change
Continuous
Controllers
MIDI
Channel 16
Note
On/Off
Program
Change
Continuous
Controllers
X Board.book Page 64 Wednesday, April 12, 2006 10:44 AM