WHAT IS MIDI
The MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) allows instruments of different makes and types to
communicate with each other by means of this clearly specified protocol of codes.
This makes it possible to create systems of MIDI instruments which offer much better versatility and control
than can be achieved with separate instruments.
To make this communication possible, all MIDI instruments are equipped with two or three 5 pin DIN
connectors marked:
- MIDI IN:
By means of this connector, the device receives the MIDI data emitted by other units.
- MIDI OUT:
By means of this connector, the device sends the MIDI data it has generated to other units.
- MIDI THRU:
This connector, used to connect several units in series, emits the MIDI data exactly as they
are received by the respective MIDI IN port.
For example, most instruments equipped with MIDI interface transmit MIDI messages which specify which note
has been played and with what velocity by means of the MIDI OUT connector. If this connector is connected to
the MIDI IN of another MIDI instrument, such as a synthesiser or an expander, the connected instrument will
give a precise response to the notes played on the transmitter instrument. This allows you actually to play two
instruments at the same time, and obtain special multi-instrument sounds.
The same type of transfer of information is used to record MIDI sequences. A sequencer can be used to
record the MIDI data transmitted by the Legend / Legend Classic / Legend Live or any other instrument.
When these recorded data are sent to the Legend / Legend Classic / Legend Live, it will automatically play
back the recorded performance.
MIDI Channels
The MIDI is able to transmit a multitude of digital data by means of a single cable and thus a single connector,
thanks to the MIDI channels. There are 16 MIDI channels, so MIDI messages are processed when the
channels of the receiver and transmitter instruments are the same. The Legend / Legend Classic / Legend
Live is able to receive and transmit information on a maximun of 3 MIDI channels simultaneously: one for the
upper manual, one for the lower manual and one for the pedalboard. The data relating to the instrument's
general information (the Reverb level, for example) are transmitted and received only on the channel
associated to the upper manual.
MIDI messages are transmitted (by the [OUT 1] and [OUT 2] ports) and received (by the [IN] and [PEDALS
KEYB ONLY] ports) on the following MIDI channels:
Section
Upper manual
Lower manual
Pedalboard
MIDI INFORMATIONS
[IN]
[PEDALS KEYB ONLY]
1
2
3
1 - 16
MIDI - 1
[OUT1] - [OUT2]
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1
2
3