MIDI 1U System 1U USB/DIN MIDI-to-CV Interface System Manual (English) MIDI 1U Firmware: 1.2 | Revision: 2023.01.
TABLE OF CONTENTS COMPLIANCE 3 OVERVIEW 4 INSTALLATION 5 Before You Start 5 Installing Your Modules 6 Connecting Power to the MIDI 1U 6 Connecting the MIDI 1U to a MIDI IN Jacks 1U 7 Connecting the MIDI 1U to a 7U Case 8 Connecting the MIDI 1U to a Palette Case 9 Connecting a CVx to a MIDI 1U 10 Connecting Multiple CVx Modules to a MIDI 1U 11 SYNTHS 12 MODULE MODES 13 Single Mode 13 Dual Mode 13 MIDI 1U FRONT PANEL 14 Controls 14 Outputs 16 CONFIGURING MIDI 1U USING THE F
INTELLIJEL CONFIG APP 24 System Region 25 MIDI 1U Config Column 26 Global/Transport Settings 27 Single Mono MOD Output Settings 28 Single Mono CC Output Settings 30 Synths Column 31 Expander Column(s) 35 Expander Shortcuts Menu 40 SYSTEM RESET 41 FIRMWARE UPDATES 42 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 44 MIDI 1U 44 CVx 1U 44 MIDI IN Jacks 1U 44 MIDI 1U System Manual 2
COMPLIANCE This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Intellijel Designs, Inc. could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
OVERVIEW Intellijel’s MIDI 1U system comprises several elements, which work together to provide flexible, programmable MIDI-to-CV conversion to your Eurorack modules: The system comprises two mandatory components, and one optional component: ● MIDI 1U module - This class-compliant, 14HP module receives MIDI from an attached, external MIDI input connector (7U or Palette case, or MIDI IN Jacks 1U module), and works in one of two modes: SINGLE Mode The module controls a single synth, listening to a single use
INSTALLATION The MIDI 1U system is designed specifically for use within an Intellijel-standard 1U row, such as contained within the Intellijel 4U, 7U, and Palette cases. Intellijel’s 1U specification is derived from the Eurorack mechanical specification set by Doepfer that is designed to support the use of lipped rails within industry standard rack heights. Power requirements for 1U conform to the Eurorack standard.
Installing Your Modules When installing or removing a module from your case always turn off the power to the case and disconnect the power cable. Failure to do so may result in serious injury or equipment damage. IMPORTANT: The MIDI 1U Module has two different 10-pin connectors on its circuit board. One is for connecting to power, and the other is for connecting to the MIDI/USB jacks on your case or MIDI IN Jacks 1U module.
pins are misaligned in any direction or the ribbon is backwards you can cause damage to your module, power supply, or other modules. After you have confirmed all the connections, you can reconnect the power cable and turn on your modular system. You should immediately check that all your modules have powered on and are functioning correctly. If you notice any anomalies, turn your system off immediately and check your cabling for mistakes.
Connecting the MIDI 1U to a 7U Case You will need to connect the MIDI 1U to either a MIDI IN Jacks 1U module or to a case with built-in MIDI/USB jacks. This section shows how to connect the MIDI 1U to the MIDI/USB jacks on an Intellijel 7U case. 1. Turn off power to the case. 2. Connect the supplied 10-pin-to-16-pin power cable between the MIDI 1U and one of the Case’s 16-pin power connectors (as discussed previously). 3.
Connecting the MIDI 1U to a Palette Case You will need to connect the MIDI 1U to either a MIDI IN Jacks 1U module or to a case with built-in MIDI/USB jacks. This section discusses how to connect the MIDI 1U to the MIDI/USB jacks on an Intellijel Palette case. 1. Turn off power to the Palette Case. 2. Connect the supplied 10-pin-to-16-pin power cable between the MIDI 1U and one your case’s 16-pin power connectors (as discussed previously).
Connecting a CVx to a MIDI 1U If you use the optional CVx expander module, you will need to connect it to both power and to the MIDI 1U module. 1. Turn off power to your case. 2. Connect the supplied 10-pin-to-16-pin power cable between the CVx and one of your case’ 16-pin power connectors (using the same technique discussed earlier in Connecting Power to the MIDI 1U ). 3. Connect one end of the supplied 6-pin to 6-pin ribbon cable to the 6-pin I2C connector on the MIDI 1U module.
Connecting Multiple CVx Modules to a MIDI 1U You can connect up to four CVx modules to a single MIDI 1U module — creating an expansive and powerful MIDI-to-CV controller for your eurorack system. Each CVx has two I2C jacks, allowing them to be chained together, with their dip switches each set to a different address. Specifically: 1. Turn off power to your case. 2. Connect the 10-pin power connector on each CVx to your power supply using the included 10-pin-to-16-pin power cable. 3.
SYNTHS The MIDI 1U System supports multiple MIDI Channels through the concept of synths. In MIDI 1U lingo, a “synth” defines the device you wish to control, and the MIDI channel on which you want to control it. Intellijel’s MIDI 1U system can control up to 10 different synths on up to 10 different MIDI channels. By itself, without any CVx expanders, the MIDI 1U can control up to two monophonic synths (called synth 1 and synth 2) on up to two different, user-selectable MIDI channels.
MODULE MODES The MIDI 1U module works in one of two modes: Single or Dual. You can toggle between these two modes using either the Module Mode parameter in the Intellijel Config app, or by long-pressing (>2 sec) the LEARN button, as described in Dual Mode Configuration. Single Mode This is the default (and most basic) mode of operation, and is the mode indicated by the panel graphics.
MIDI 1U FRONT PANEL Controls [1] LEARN button - Use this button to learn which MIDI channel the MIDI 1U will respond to, as well as the MIDI CC numbers assigned to both the CC [F] and MOD [E] output jacks. MIDI 1U automatically saves all learned settings (CLK ÷ button flashes green) after 2 seconds of MIDI inactivity, ensuring it returns to exactly the same state after a power cycle.
[2] CLK ÷ button - This button serves two functions. NORMAL OPERATION: In normal operation (i.e., the LEARN [1] button is off/unlit), pressing CLK ÷ sets the clock division of the incoming MIDI clock.
Outputs [A] CLK out - Clock output, which transmits a divided MIDI clock pulse with a division set by the CLK ± [2] button. The corresponding LED blinks in time with the CLK out. Alternatively, you can use the Intellijel Config app to set the desired Clock Division. [B] RST out - Operates as either a RESET output or a RUN output, depending on how it’s configured in the Intellijel Config app.
● SINGLE Mode : CV output for synth 1. Output is either 0-5V or ±5V (depending on the polarity assignment, as learned with the CLK ± [2] button or configured with the Intellijel Config app). By default, this jack outputs a control voltage proportional to the Mod Wheel data (CC #1) transmitted by your MIDI controller on the MIDI Channel Number assigned to MIDI 1U’s synth 1.
CONFIGURING MIDI 1U USING THE FRONT PANEL You can configure the MIDI 1U module using either its front panel or the Intellijel Config app (available for download from www.intellijel.com). This section discusses configuration via the front panel. Using the Intellijel Config app is discussed later in this manual. Learn a MIDI Channel (Synth 1) You can set the MIDI receive channel for synth 1 using the LEARN button. Specifically: 1. If the LEARN [1] button is not lit, press it once.
Learn the CC Jack Assignment (Synth 1) If using Single Mode, you can also assign a function to the MIDI 1U’s CC [F] jack using the LEARN button. Specifically: 1. If the LEARN [1] button is not lit, press it once. The LEARN button lights solid blue, indicating the MIDI 1U is in LEARN CC+CH mode, and is awaiting a MIDI message. In the following steps you will be learning the syn 1 MIDI Channel and MIDI CC# you want assigned to the CC [F] jack, plus that jack’s CV Polarity. 2.
Learn the MOD Jack Assignment (Synth 1) If using Single Mode, you can also assign a function to the MIDI 1U’s MOD [E] jack using the LEARN button. Specifically: 1. If the LEARN [1] button is not lit, press it twice. The LEARN button flashes blue, indicating the MIDI 1U is in LEARN MOD+CH mode, and is awaiting a MIDI message. In the following steps you will be learning the synth 1 MIDI Channel and MIDI CC# you want assigned to the MOD [E] jack, plus that jack’s CV Polarity. 2.
Dual Mode Configuration (Synth 1 + Synth 2) MIDI 1U offers an alternate, dual channel mode that reconfigures its output jacks for dual synth operation. In this mode, you control both synth 1 and synth 2 from the MIDI 1U module, giving you independent MIDI control of the pitch, gate and velocity for two different MIDI channels (repurposing the MOD, CC and TRIG jacks for PITCH, VEL and GATE jacks, respectively, for synth 2). NOTE: You will need to configure any desired CLK division before entering Dual Mode.
Using Portamento on a Mono Synth MIDI 1U responds to standard MIDI CC Portamento commands, allowing it to operate in portamento mode. This slews the voltage change (with constant time) between pitches in a mono synth. Send standard, channelized, MIDI CC messages from your DAW, sequencer or controller to turn that channel’s Mono Synth Portamento on/off, and to set the portamento time. Specifically: ● CC 65 (Portamento Control) on MIDI Channel “x”.
CVx 1U FRONT PANEL Each of the optional CVx 1U expander modules has eight user-assignable outputs. Using the Intellijel Config app, you can assign each of the eight jacks to generate just about any type of voltage that can be derived from a MIDI signal. You connect a CVx expander module to the MIDI 1U using their 6-pin I2C connectors, as discussed in Connecting a CVx to a MIDI 1U.
INTELLIJEL CONFIG APP You can customize various aspects of the MIDI 1U system using the Intellijel Config app (available for both Mac and Windows), which is available to download from the www.intellijel.com website.
System Region On the far left is the red System Region, which is used to select and connect to the desired MIDI 1U system, and to export and import various saved settings. The following options are available: MIDI Input Select the MIDI Device you want to configure from the drop down MIDI Input list. MIDI Output Select the MIDI Device you want to configure from the drop down MIDI Output list.
MIDI 1U Config Column The MIDI 1U Config column is used to configure the various outputs of the MIDI 1U module selected in the System Region’s MIDI Input and MIDI Output menus. At the top of the column is the name of the selected device and its current firmware version. Beneath are all the available parameters, divided into three sections: ● Global/Transport ● Single Mono MOD Output ● Single Mono CC Output Each section is described on the following pages.
Global/Transport Settings Use these settings to configure the MIDI 1U Clock and RST jack functions. Specifically: Module Mode The MIDI 1U module works in one of two modes: Single or Dual. Use this menu to select between the two operations. Single Mono This is the default (and most basic) mode of operation, and is the mode indicated by the panel graphics.
Clock Division Clock Mode RST Output Selects a clock division to apply to the incoming MIDI clock. The divided clock is sent out the CLK output. /1 /3 /6 /12 /24 /48 /96 clock out = 24 ppq clock out = 1/32 notes clock out = 1/16 notes clock out = 1/8 notes clock out = 1/4 notes clock out = 1/2 notes clock out = whole notes Always The received MIDI clock will be output regardless of the Transport state (Start/Stop). Running The MIDI clock will only be output when the Transport is “running.
Clock (Running) As with “Clock (Always),” the jack outputs a divided clock signal, but only when the transport is “running.” NOTE: If you assign the output to “Clock” (either “Always” or “Running”), then you have the option of setting an arbitrary number of clock divisions (from 1 to 192), rather than the preset options offered by the module’s dedicated CLK output. Reset The jack transmits a trigger signal whenever a MIDI RESET or START message is received.
Velocity Clock Division The jack outputs a velocity value with a range of 0-5V. The voltage is proportional to the MIDI velocity received on the MIDI Channel assigned to synth 1. NOTE: Available only if Output Type = “Clock (Always)” or “Clock (Running)” Selects a clock division to apply to the incoming MIDI clock.
Synths Column Intellijel’s MIDI 1U system can control up to ten different synths on up to ten different MIDI channels. By itself (without a CVx), the MIDI 1U can control up to two monophonic synths. Connecting one or more CVx expanders adds eight additional synths — each of which can be configured as a monophonic synth; a polyphonic synth; or a collection of note-mapped drum assignments.
MIDI Channel (1-16) Selects the MIDI channel to which the synth responds. Each synth can respond to a different MIDI Channel, or you can assign the same channel to multiple synths for layers and splits. Minimum Pitch (0-127) Sets the minimum pitch value to which the synth responds. This value (along with the Maximum Pitch value) are useful for setting up splits and layers when multiple synths are set to the same MIDI Channel.
Note Priority NOTE: Appears only if Type = ”Monophonic”. If the incoming MIDI stream has more sustained notes than your system can play simultaneously, this option determines which note is actually heard. Last The most recently played (last) note will always override the currently playing note, and is always the note you will hear. Highest The highest note currently being held is the note you will hear. Any note you play that is lower will be ignored.
Pitch Bend Range NOTE: Does not appear if Type = ”Drum”. (1 - 24) Coarse Tuning Trigger Length Sets the max number of semitones that an incoming MIDI Pitch Bend message will affect the PITCH output. NOTE: Does not appear if Type = ”Drum”. (± 24) Changes overall coarse tuning (in semitones) of the MIDI channel. This is particularly useful for shifting octaves, and placing 0V at the desired octave (i.e. C0, C1, etc). (5 - 100ms) Sets the amount of time that the channel’s trigger signal stays ‘high.
Expander Column(s) When you connect one or more CVx modules to your MIDI 1U and launch the Intellijel Config app, you’ll see an additional Expander column for each CVx in the chain. Each additional column will be titled “Expander ”, where is the Expander ID as set with the rear panel dip switches. You can chain up to four CVx expanders to a single MIDI 1U.
Output Type The selection made here determines the type of data transmitted out the corresponding CVx jack. The selection impacts the availability of other jack parameters. Clock (Always) The jack outputs a clock signal. When “Clock (Always)” is selected, a dedicated Clock Division parameter materializes, with which you set the rate. The received MIDI clock will be output regardless of the Transport state (Start/Stop).
Gate The jack outputs a gate signal, which is high (5V) for as long as a note is being held on the MIDI Channel used by the selected Synth. Gate (Any) NOTE: Available only for “polyphonic” and “drum” Synth types — not available for “mono” Synth types. Similar to the Gate output option (above) except it will output a gate when any voice is played by either a “polyphonic” or “drum” synth, and not just the gate associated with the voice that’s currently being used.
Clock Division NOTE: Available only if Output Type = “Clock (Always)” or “Clock (Running)” 1-192 Selects a clock division to apply to the incoming MIDI clock. If you assign the output to “Clock” (either “Always” or “Running”), then you have the option of setting an arbitrary number of clock divisions (from 1 to 192), rather than the preset options offered by the module’s dedicated CLK output.
CV Polarity NOTE: Available only if Output Type = “CC Number” or “CC Number (High Res)” Unipolar The jack outputs a unipolar signal ranging from 0V to +5V. Incoming MIDI CC data is interpreted as a unipolar signal, meaning a CC value of 0 maps to 0V and a CC value of 127 maps to +5V. Bipolar The jack outputs a bipolar signal ranging from -5V to +5V. Incoming MIDI CC data is interpreted as a bipolar signal, meaning a CC value of 64 maps to 0V.
Expander Shortcuts Menu At the top of each Expander column is a drop-down shortcuts menu, which enables you to quickly configure all 8 CVx outputs for a particular use. Set All Synths To Sets all output jacks to the selected Synth number (1-10). Quick Poly Various shortcuts that configure the 8 output jacks for 2-voice, 3-voice, or 4-voice polyphonic operation. Quick Drums Various shortcuts that configure the 8 output jacks for either 8 drum sounds, or 4 drum sounds with velocity control.
SYSTEM RESET You can restore MIDI 1U to its factory default configuration using either the Intellijel Config app or the hardware itself. To Reset using the Device: 1. Power up with Clock Div held down test mode to reset defaults The CLK ± and LEARN buttons will both flash red, green and blue. 2. Long-press (>1 sec) the CLK ± button. The CLK ± and LEARN buttons will briefly cycle through a series of rapid red flashes, then return to alternately flashing red, green and blue. 3.
FIRMWARE UPDATES Firmware updates are contained within the latest Intellijel Firmware Updater application, which you can download from the product’s page on the Intellijel.com website. The application is available in both Macintosh and Windows formats, and will install firmware into your module over USB. Use the drop-down lists at the top of the application to select the product you wish to update, and the firmware version you want to install.
1.1.3 (May 26, 2021) ● CHANGE: Increase maximum number of held notes in Mono Synths to 16. Though mono synths obviously play only one voice at a time, this fixes a problem with the way some arpeggiators deal with large numbers of held notes. ● FIX: Fix assignment of MOD and CC outputs to sources other than Controllers. 1.1.2 (Feb 02, 2021) ● FIX: “All Notes Off” messages resetting output CV. Only gates are reset. ● NEW: Handling of “Reset All Controllers” CC 121 messages. 1.1.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS MIDI 1U Width 14 hp Maximum Depth 32 mm Current Draw 34 mA @ +12V 2 mA @ -12V CVx 1U Width 14 hp Maximum Depth 32 mm Current Draw 55 mA @ +12V 6 mA @ -12V MIDI IN Jacks 1U Width 8 hp Maximum Depth 30 mm Current Draw None - Passive module MIDI 1U System Manual 44
