MIDI Functions
22
MIDI is an acronym that stands for Musical Instrument Digital Interface, which allows electronic
musical instruments to communicate with each other, by sending and receiving compatible Note,
Control Change, Program Change and various other types of MIDI data, or messages.
The DD-55 can control a MIDI device by transmitting note related data and various types of control-
ler data.
The DD-55 can be controlled by the incoming MIDI messages which automatically determine tone
generator mode, select MIDI channels, voices and effects, change parameter values and of course
play the voices specified for the various parts.
MIDI messages can be divided into two groups: Channel messages and System messages.
●
Channel Messages
The DD-55 is an electronic instrument that can handle 16 channels. This is usually expressed
as “it can play 16 instruments at the same time.” Channel messages transmit information such
as Note ON/OFF, Program Change, for each of the 16 channels.
●
System Messages
This is data that is used in common by the entire MIDI system. System messages include mes-
sages like Exclusive Messages that transmit data unique to each instrument manufacturer and
Realtime Messages that control the MIDI device.
The messages transmitted/received by the DD-55 are shown in the MIDI Implementation Chart on
page 41.
Message Name
DD-55 Operation/Panel Setting
Note ON/OFF
Messages which are generated when the pad or pedal is played.
Each message includes a specific note number which corresponds to the
pad which is struck, plus a velocity value based on how hard the pad is
struck.
Program Change
Voice setting (control change bank select MSB/LSB setting; only receive
is available)
Control Change
Voice setting (volume, pan pot, etc.; only receive is available)
Message Name
DD-55 Operation/Panel Setting
Exclusive Message
Reverb/Chorus/DSP settings, etc.
Realtime Messages
Clock setting
Start/stop operation
About MIDI terminals
In order to exchange MIDI data between multiple devices, each device must be connected by a MIDI cable.
The DD-55 is equipped with two types of MIDI terminals, both of which are located on the right side panel.
MIDI IN
.................... Data transmitted from other MIDI instruments via MIDI, is received at
this terminal.
MIDI OUT
................ Data produced by the DD-55, is transmitted to other MIDI instruments
via MIDI from this terminal.
• Never use MIDI cables longer
than about 15 meters. Cables
longer than this can pick up
noise which can cause data
errors.