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Route MIDI Between Applications on the Same Computer

Jeff Robbins

While Visibox is a powerful tool for controlling visuals in live performances, it can be enhanced further by integrating it with other MIDI-enabled applications such as MIDI sequencers, DAWs, or lighting software. This software can be running on the same computer as Visibox, or a different computer connected via a network, USB, or other MIDI interfaces. By routing MIDI signals from one application to another, you can sync Visibox with existing lighting cues, multi-channel audio playback, etc.

In this guide, we’ll focus on routing MIDI signals from one application to Visibox on the same computer. The process involves creating a virtual MIDI port that acts as a bridge between the sending application and Visibox. Note that this process should work for any application that can receive MIDI, not just Visibox. Here’s how you to set it up on both Mac and Windows systems:

For Mac Users

  1. Set Up the IAC Driver:

    • Open Audio MIDI Setup (found in Applications > Utilities).
    • From the menu bar, choose Window > Show MIDI Studio.
    • Double-click the IAC Driver icon. IAC (Inter-Application Communication) is a virtual MIDI driver that allows MIDI data to be sent between applications on the same computer.
    • Check the Device is online checkbox.
    • Click the + button to create a new port. Name it appropriately (e.g., “Visibox MIDI”).

  2. Configure the Sending Application:

    • Open the MIDI-sending application (e.g., a DAW like Logic Pro).
    • Go to the MIDI settings and set the output to the newly created IAC port (e.g., “Visibox MIDI”).

  3. Configure Visibox:

    • Open Visibox.
    • In the Settings > MIDI Inputs menu, ensure that the new IAC MIDI port is appearing and enabled
    • Open the MIDI Map window via Settings > MIDI Map.
    • Select the new IAC port from the “Input” dropdown.
    • Map the MIDI controls to the desired actions within Visibox.

  4. Test the Setup:

    • Trigger MIDI data in the sending application.
    • Verify that Visibox receives and responds to the MIDI data appropriately.

For Windows Users

  1. Install a Virtual MIDI Cable:

    • Download and install a virtual MIDI cable. Popular options include:
    • Open the virtual MIDI cable application.
    • Create a new virtual port and name it (e.g., “Visibox MIDI”).

  2. Configure the Sending Application:

    • Open the MIDI-sending application (e.g., a DAW like Cubase).
    • Go to the MIDI settings and set the output to the newly created virtual MIDI port (e.g., “Visibox MIDI”).

  3. Configure Visibox:

    • Open Visibox.
    • In the Settings > MIDI Inputs menu, ensure that the new virtual MIDI port is appearing and enabled.
    • Open the MIDI Map window via Settings > MIDI Map.
    • Select the new virtual port from the “Input” dropdown.
    • Map the MIDI controls to the desired actions within Visibox.

  4. Test the Setup:

    • Trigger MIDI data in the sending application.
    • Verify that Visibox receives and responds to the MIDI data appropriately.

Additional Tips for Using Visibox with MIDI

  • MIDI Mapping in Visibox: Make use of Visibox’s MIDI mapping feature to assign specific MIDI controls to actions like triggering videos, changing scenes, or controlling effects.
  • Monitor MIDI Data: Utilize MIDI monitoring tools (like MIDI-OX on Windows or MIDI Monitor on Mac) to ensure the MIDI signals are being transmitted correctly.
  • Consistent MIDI Channels: Ensure that Visibox’s MIDI input is in “Omni” mode. This will ensure that Visibox will receive messages on whatever MIDI channel the sending application is sending on.

By following these steps, you can effectively route MIDI signals from any application to Visibox, allowing for a seamless integration of your MIDI devices and software in your live performances.