MIDI technology has evolved since the early days. And as it grows, we see more options with respect to connectivity and the creative flexibility it offers. If you’re just entering the world of MIDI, it may be helpful to first check out our article: How to Use MIDI to Sound Like a Pro. But if you’re already familiar with the basics, the following guide will help you get a better overview of the MIDI options available to you.
What Is MIDI?
For those unfamiliar with the technology, MIDI stands for “Musical Instrument Digital Interface.” In practical terms, it’s a universal or shared language that can be used to send information across various mediums. Simply put, MIDI is a way of sending messages to sound sources to activate notes and control various parameters. Take your typical MIDI keyboard controller; you can connect it to your computer, for example, to initiate sounds and modulations of a software instrument, but the keyboard controller itself doesn’t usually have any built-in sounds (unless it’s a synth too). It simply triggers actions.
What Is MPE?
MPE stands for MIDI Polyphonic Expression. While the sound coming out of most synths can only be manipulated monophonically with knobs, sliders, joysticks, etc., MPE controllers and synthesizers give you timbral and modulation control of each key (it’s polyphonic), resulting in more nuanced and expressive playing. On typical MPE controllers, you can trigger pitch bends, filter cutoffs, lateral movement and more just by moving your finger or applying pressure to the keys. Most of the major DAWs support the MPE standard, so you would just need an MPE controller or synth like the one below.
Types of MIDI Connections
5-pin
With respect to connectivity, MIDI information can be sent in three different ways. The five-pin plug is how MIDI was originally transmitted to hardware. And while it’s becoming less common now, many audio interfaces and synthesizers still support five-pin MIDI connections.
USB
Nowadays, it’s very common for MIDI to be sent via USB. And most MIDI controllers on the market can send MIDI information through USB cable to various hardware without the need for a dedicated MIDI interface. But more about interfaces below.
TRS
TRS cables have 3.5mm plugs and transmit the information in the same way as USB and five-pin cables. But confusingly, there are different types of TRS connections, the most standard one being Type A. Different synth and MIDI controller brands support different TRS types, so it’s important that you ensure that your MIDI instruments are compatible when connecting with this type of cable.
MIDI Interfaces
Most modern controllers act as MIDI interfaces, connecting to your computer via USB. However, if your instruments have a five-pin connection, you can use a dedicated MIDI interface. Additionally, many audio interfaces support five-pin connections as well (while others also offer MIDI TRS connections).
MIDI vs. CV
It may also be helpful to differentiate between MIDI and CV (Control Voltage). Both are ways of sending signals to external sound sources. However, MIDI sends digital signals, while CV is an analog signal. While most older synths support CV connections, many current synthesizers have CV connections as well, not only to expand compatibility but also because CV transmission typically results in better resolution than MIDI.
MIDI to CV Conversion
It is possible to control desktop analog synths and modular synths from a MIDI controller by using a MIDI to CV converter. In the same way it is also possible to employ analog and modular synthesizers as MIDI controllers using a converter. Finally, you can also control desktop analog and modular synths from a DAW if it’s able to generate CV output signals. But for this you will need an audio interface with DC-coupled outputs.
Final Thoughts
MIDI technology is increasingly providing incredible flexibility in the way we play and control instruments and sounds. And as long as you ensure that your MIDI equipment and software is compatible with your other gear, the artistic possibilities are virtually endless.
