Specifications
Pro Tools Reference Guide20
Multi-Timbral The capability of playing several
different instrument sounds (such as piano,
bass, and drums) simultaneously on separate
channels. This makes it possible for a single
MIDI sound source to play back entire arrange-
ments.
MIDI Channel Up to 16 channels of MIDI perfor-
mance data can be transmitted on a single MIDI
cable. The channel number separates the differ-
ent messages so your sound sources can receive
the right ones.
Program Change Event A MIDI command that
tells a sound source which of its sounds (or
sound patches) to use. The MIDI protocol lets
you choose from a range of 128 patches.
Bank Select Message Many devices have more
than 128 patches, which are arranged in banks.
The Bank Select Message is a MIDI command
that specifies the bank of patches from which to
choose.
Local Control A controller setting found on most
MIDI keyboards that lets them play their own
sound source. Disabling “local control” ensures
that a device’s internal sound source is only
played by external MIDI messages.
When using Pro Tools, “local control” should
usually be disabled. When “local control” is off,
your keyboard still transmits data to its MIDI
OUT port.
Continuous Controller Events MIDI instructions
that allow real-time changes to notes that are
currently sounding. These include pitch bend,
modulation, volume, pan, and many others.
System Exclusive Data MIDI data commonly
used for sending and retrieving patch parameter
information for storage purposes.
Common Misconceptions about
MIDI
MIDI is not audio. The messages that travel
down a MIDI cable translate to specific instruc-
tions. For instance, when you strike a key on
your MIDI keyboard it sends a message to its
MIDI OUT port telling another device (if con-
nected and set to the same MIDI channel) to
play that particular note.
However, to actually hear that second device
(sound source) you’ll need to connect its audio
outputs to a sound system. Your MIDI instru-
ments have two signal paths, one for audio and
another for MIDI.
MIDI does not allow you to use your devices be-
yond their capabilities. Particular instruments
have their own sound generation, polyphony,
and multi-timbral limitations.
Signal paths for MIDI instruments