Most pedals only transmit Program Changes and not Note
Numbers - Here's how to get around that:
I just got the MIDI Solutions "Event Processor" box. ($119
US)
It works like a charm! John, the designer at Midi Solutions
(midisolutions.com) was very helpful and really fast
replying to my several emails.
Here's how it works:
You first program it using your PC with a MIDI OUT port with
a really simple easy programming tool (free) you download
from their site. (You can do it now and test it out - I
did.)
(NOTE: If your PC doesn't have a MIDI OUT port, then you can
get a MIDI IN/OUT cable that you can plug into the game port
(Joystick connector) on your soundcard for $20)
Using the software, you "tell" the box to convert MIDI
PROGRAM Change messages to MIDI NOTE NUMBER messages. It
will do numbers 0-127 or 1-128.
(It can also do many other functions.)
You insert the box into the midi chain (in between your
pedalboard and DMX controller) and it intercepts the MIDI
transmissions and like any good hacker, changes them to
something you need it to do, in this case, converting the
Program Changes to Note Numbers.
I had 2 questions about the Software and how to make it do
what I needed. John walked me through it via email, and in
less than five minutes after the box arrived, it was up and
running!
I am using my PODXT Live pedal MIDI OUT to transmit Program
Changes (0-127)to the DMX Light Controller...and the "box"
converts them to Note Numbers (0-127). How easy is that?
The "box" is approx. 5 inches long, 3 inches wide and 1 1/2
inches thick. Your typical Radio Shack P-Box and weighs less
than a pound.
You can find them at any major outlet online and by all
means go to the website:
www.midisolutions.com - don't let
the techno-capabilites scare you away from this easy to use
"box."
...And to think I almost bought one of those big honkin'
pedal boards!
DISCLOSURE: I told John that if his "box" works, I would
tout testimony to the user groups looking for a solution. It
works well. Thank you John.