Akai MINIAK Reference Manual page 52

Saving Programs, Multis, Rhythms, and Sequences via MIDI System Exclusive
The MINIAK lets you transmit Programs, Multis, Rhythms, and Sequences to an external device (such as a
computer, sequencer, storage device, or another MINIAK synthesizer) via MIDI. MIDI devices use a protocol
called "System Exclusive" messaging (Sysex for short) for transmitting and receiving these communications.
Use the Send Sysex and Send SysEx Bundle commands from within the [PROGRAMS], [MULTI],
[RHYTHMS], or [SEQUENCES] modes to send this information.
To save a SysEx on your computer, you can typically start your sequencer recording, send the SysEx from
the MINIAK, and then save the MIDI file in your sequencer. Your sequencer may also have features for
receiving and storing a "SysEx dump" directly. Consult your sequencer's reference manual.
Loading Programs, Rhythms, Sequences, and Multis via
MIDI
The MINIAK doesn't need to be in a special mode to receive
MIDI SysEx information. Simply connect a MIDI cable from the
MIDI out jack of your MIDI player to the (MIDI IN) port of your
MINIAK and start the SysEx dump on your MIDI storage device
or computer. If everything is working properly, the MINIAK
display will read "Receiving..." and the Program, Multi,
Sequence, or Rhythm will be loaded.
What's a bundle?
There are two options for sending a Multi, Rhythm, or Sequence: "Send MIDI sysex?" and "Send syx
bundle?" The difference has to do with dependencies.
For example, a Multi can depend on Sequences and Rhythms that are stored on your MINIAK. If you send a
Multi to a friend and his MINIAK doesn't have the Sequences and Rhythms that your Multi uses, the Multi
might not sound the same. Similarly, Multis, Rhythms, and Sequences all depend on Programs. If your
friend's MINIAK has a different set of Programs than yours, nothing you send him will sound the same.
To solve this problem, you can send a bundle. A SysEx bundle contains the Multi, Rhythm, or Sequence you
are sending, plus everything it depends on – all of the Rhythms, Sequences, and Programs that your friend
will need to hear your creation exactly as it sounds on your MINIAK.
Compatibility with other programs
The MINIAK's Programs are 100% compatible with the Alesis Ion and the Alesis Micron. However, the
MINIAK's Sequences, Rhythms, and Multis are not compatible with the Ion.
Sharing Programs between the Akai MINIAK and the Alesis Ion or Micron
Sending Programs from the MINIAK to the Ion
Connect the MINIAK's (MIDI OUT) port to the Ion's or Micron's MIDI IN port. Send Programs using the
Send SysEx screen from within the MINIAK's [PROGRAMS] mode.
Sending Programs from the Ion or Micron to the MINIAK
Connect the Ion's or Micron's MIDI OUT port to the MINIAK's (MIDI IN) port. Send Programs from the
Ion or Micron as directed in the unit's reference manual.
Updating Software Via MIDI
The MINIAK's operating system software can be upgraded via MIDI. From time to time Akai may release
updates, which will add or enhance features. Software updates will be posted to the Akai website. In order
to upgrade the MINIAK's software, you will need a computer with a MIDI interface and MIDI sequencing
software.
To Upgrade the Software in your MINIAK:
1. Connect the MIDI OUT of the computer to the (MIDI IN) of the MINIAK.
2. Open the ".syx" or ".mid" software file in your sequencer program.
3. Turn the MINIAK's power on while holding both the [SEQUENCES] and [PROGRAMS] buttons.
4. After briefly displaying the current operating system version, the display will read "Ready to
receive OS through MIDI."
5. Play the ".syx" or ".mid" file.
All Notes Off
The MIDI command All Notes Off is used to silence a synthesizer with a note or notes that are stuck on.
This is usually caused when a Note On message is received without a Note Off. Press the [PROGRAMS]
button twice in quick succession to force all notes off.
NOTE: Some computers are not fast
enough to transmit MIDI SysEx data
properly.
problems, try adjusting the settings in
your MIDI software. Some programs
allow you to slow down the transmit
rate so the computer hardware can
keep up with the software.
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If you are experiencing