3.5

32MainStage User Guide
In some cases, you can change the message type the controller sends by choosing a
different preset or by reprogramming the device. Some devices may include software
that you can use to reprogram knobs, buttons, and other controls. For information about
reprogramming a MIDI device, see the documentation that came with the device.
MIDI devices that support automatic configuration
MainStage can automatically configure the screen controls in a concert to support many
popular MIDI controllers. If you are using a device that supports automatic configuration,
MainStage alerts you to select the appropriate preset on your device when you open a new
concert. After you select the preset on your MIDI device, the screen controls in the concert
are assigned to the corresponding controls on your hardware device so you can use them
in MainStage with no further configuration.
MIDI devices that send special MIDI message types
Certain types of hardware controls such as knobs (rotary controls) and buttons are capable
of sending several types of MIDI messages. When you assign these controls to MainStage
screen controls using the Learn process, MainStage analyzes the incoming MIDI data to
determine which type of message the hardware control is sending. In order for MainStage
to learn these controls correctly, be sure to turn knobs through their full range of motion
and to press buttons exactly three times during the Learn process.
Some MIDI controllers can send nonstandard or proprietary MIDI messages. MainStage
cannot process or respond to nonstandard MIDI messages, to “registered” or “non-
registered” parameter messages, or to system exclusive (SysEx) messages. MainStage
can process some system real-time messages and MIDI Machine Control (MMC) messages
when you assign a hardware control that sends these messages to a screen control.
Some devices have buttons that send program change messages. You can use these
buttons to send program change messages to MainStage, but you cannot assign them
to control other parameters using MainStage screen controls.
Connect a USB music keyboard to MainStage
You can connect a USB music keyboard to your computer to play software instrument
patches or to use with external MIDI devices such as synthesizers or sound modules.
Connect a USB music keyboard to your computer
If the keyboard has a USB port: Connect the USB cable from the keyboard to
your computer.
Be sure to follow the instructions that came with the keyboard, which may include installing
the correct driver on your computer. Check the manufacturer’s website for the latest driver
software. If you are using a MIDI interface, be sure to follow the instructions that came with
the interface.