Midi - Yamaha DTX Owner's Manual

MIDI

The DTX contains various MIDI functions. By using the MIDI functions you can play or control external
synthesizers, computers or sequencers connected to the DTX by hitting connected pads or drum sets with
triggers and create a large music system configuration. This can be used in various situations such as live
performances, parties and events.
This section provides basic knowledge regarding the MIDI functions as well as ways to actually use the
MIDI functions of the DTX.
Basic Information
The MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) world standard protocol was developed by a consortium of
musical instrument hardware and software manufacturers. It is a kind of common language to permit
performance and other data to be transferred and acknowledged between different instruments or even
instruments made by different manufacturers. Different electronic instruments developed in different
environments can communicate to each other with this common language.
MIDI standard instruments transmit various performance commands or settings in the form of "messages"
consisting of digital data (data that is converted into numbers). There are 2 categories of messages: a channel
message and a system message. A channel message refers to the data regarding a keyboard note or musical
expression (dumper pedal or volume) that can be transmitted through each designated MIDI channel. A
system message refers to the data that enables multiple instruments linked together to function as a MIDI
system.
The DTX is equipped with a [MIDI OUT] channel to send out these messages to other MIDI devices and a
[MIDI IN] channel to receive messages from other MIDI devices. Use exclusive MIDI cables to connect the
devices between the [MIDI IN] and [MIDI OUT] channels.
A You can buy MIDI cables at music instruments stores that carry electronic instruments. The length of the cables vary from 15 m to 30 cm
depending on the purpose.
MIDI Connection
Check and see if the direction of the plug pins match the jack and plug in straightly. Connect the MIDI OUT
jack of the device that will send a MIDI signal to the MIDI IN jack of the device that will receive a MIDI
signal.
A The types of MIDI data that can be handled may differ depending on the MIDI device, and you may only be able to control the common
functions between a set of MIDI devices. Use the MIDI Implementation Chart (P.168) to look up the common MIDI functions.
SNARE
CONTRAST OUT IN
MIDI MIDI
This jack is used to This jack is used to
send out MIDI signals. receive MIDI signals.
DTX
MIDI OUT
Tone
generator
MIDI IN MIDI OUT
MIDI IN
External
MIDI device
Appendix — MIDI
129