Feature Request: standalone MIDI control for interfaces

[Michael Labay]

I think the 828mkII and Traveler interfaces could be incredibly cost-effective IEM (in-ear monitor) mixers, in addition to live and recording interfaces if they would allow me to control individual channel-to-output buss assignments via external MIDI protocol.

I want to connect several MIDI control surfaces, each communicating individually to the 828. Each MIDI controller would individually control pan and volume and maybe even channel assignments to separate discrete stereo pairs of outputs (to be fed to individual IEM's)

With external MIDI control, up to 4 or 5 stereo pairs could be remotely mixed without a computer via inexpensive MIDI continuous controller boxes or keyboard sliders, then the stereo audio pairs could be routed to either traditional headphone amps or wireless IEM transmitters. 4-5 musicians could each then "mix" their own IEM's.

I understand the CueMix direct input to output mix of the 828mkII and Traveler can be controlled via a Mackie HUI compliant device. The interface must be connected to a Mac or Windows computer in for this capability to work. You can use multiple control surfaces to access multiple interfaces. You can remotely control volume and pan. Output assignments must be made from the computer screen.

But HUI compliant controllers cost >$600+ each...and this requires a computer...

Make it so that I can control the pan and volumes via simple MIDI slider boxes. MIDI slider boxes that can be programmed for continuous controller values. Boxes that only cost around $120-150 bucks each.

About 10 years ago, I wanted this capability for my band, but there were no digital mixers that could accomplish this. In my frustration, I devised the following system:

I am merging five Knobby controllers:

http://www.encoreelectronics.com/cont_knob1.html

into a MIDI merge box, then connecting to two Fostex DCM-100 digital line mixers (circa 1991)

http://www.cassiel.com/gearhead/dcm100.html

My AMR rackmount mixer has direct outs on all the input channels, so I run jumpers from the AMR channels to the Fostex DCM-100 inputs.

Oh, and no computer is needed.

But it's almost 2006, and I'd rather run my Knobbys into a shiny, new MOTU 828mkII.

Of all the low to midrange digital mixers on the market (Yamaha, Behringer, Tascam, etc) The MOTU 828 comes closest to offering small bands, combos and project studios a cost effective way to mix IEMs without the high cost of digital distros (e.g. Hearback, Aviom, Intelix) or the bulky cabling of analog systems (i.e.,Furman).

Each system just mentioned require the user to purchase proprietary mixers, most costing ~$500.00, with the "brain" running around 600-1000.

If anyone on this 'board has some pull with the MOTU engineers, please request this feature! Thanks,

Michael Labay

[Jidis]

Michael,

I requested this for the 424 cuemix way back when I got it (1st gen 424). I sort of assumed it was on the way, as they were still building the new cuemix software, but they only ended up adding the couple proprietary formats (as you mentioned).

I know you're actually referring to standalone control, but it seems like all of it (hardware and software) should have that capability, if it's set up to allow basic third party control. With all the cheap generics available now, it would make sense for it to see the simple "universal" CC/note messages, as well as just the proprietary stuff.

For the "non-editable" generics (the Knobby maybe?), either a "learn" function, or a user assigned, savable map, would be ideal.

Hope it happens someday,

George

PS- Don't know what sort of edit/message capability the Knobby does, but the stuff which can run in "emulation mode" may clone one of the supported control sets (assuming it's properly implemented).

[Michael Labay]

Thanks, it's affirming to know that others are thinking about this. Seems like a gimme, the MIDI spec was really getting some cool responsibilities there for a while (show control, etc etc) but MIDI seems to have fallen out of favor since loop-based sampling came into vogue.

I feel it's a good time to revisit this. I think with the proliferation of self-serv monitor mixing for IEM's and their need for individual control over input assignments to multiple stereo busses, why not MIDI? It's perfect for a control protocol.

I've worked with some of these digital monitor systems, and they aren't particularly any more robust than a MIDI setup would be. AAMOF, some are using off-the-shelf ethernet connections. I've come real close to crushing a connector or two with my boot, they are fragile, plastic and getting pulled in and out alot between gigs.

Thanks for taking the time to respond. Peace.

[jbuonacc]

it might be a long shot, but i believe someone has produced a Mackie Control emulator for the Behringer BCR/F-2000. this may allow the Behringer to communicate with the MOTU.

[Jidis]

Yeah, I was impressed by the Behringer controllers when they came out. I *thought* they had an emu mode for something from the start (?). All that sort of stuff is still at the mercy of the drivers,etc., but I think those are doing OK for many people (seems there were some crashes early on, maybe in non-emu mode).

Michael evidently already has his controls anyway. Also sounds like he's looking for something smaller and more "modular", for a multi-controller network. Sort of like a MIDI version of that Furman HA headphone system or something.

Take Care,

George

PS- I haven't hit that particular wall yet, but receiving generic MIDI messages is a pretty standard feature for most remotely controllable stuff. It wouldn't hurt.

[mortald]

The inability to simply control 828 mixer gain levels by way of a MIDI controler like the kenton control freak it TOTALLY RETARDED!!!!!

Motu must have a deal with mackie to sell proprietery "HUI" control surfaces. LAME!!!!

I think I'm going to take my 828 back to the store.