How a MIDI Sound Module Works

Definition

A MIDI Sound Module is a computer-based musical instrument. Instead of having a traditional interface like a keyboard, it is controlled electronically through a computer. A MIDI Sound Module does not produce musical notes like a traditional instrument does. Instead, it generates electronic tones that can be altered by a computer to resemble musical notes. A MIDI Sound Module can either be controlled through a piece of computer software or through the addition of an external device like a keyboard. On a keyboard, the keys can be set to generate specific kinds of tones when struck.

Event Messages

A MIDI Sound Module does not actually produce any audio information. Instead, it transmits what are referred to as "event messages" to your computer. These messages include data on pitch, intensity, and volume to control exactly what kind of tone the module plays. These messages can be modified using software to mimic musical notes, through they will sound computerised due to their electronic nature. Other parameters of these event messages can also be altered, like panning and vibrato. When altered correctly, a MIDI Sound Module can produce a new and interesting type of music.

"MIDI"

The term "MIDI" is actually an acronym for "Musical Instrument Digital Interface." This digital interface was designed specifically for the purpose of creating electronic music. Actual Sound Modules can encompass a number of different devices, including things like a digital piano (a basic piano designed to hook into a computer), a synthesizer, or a sampler. A number of professional musicians use a MIDI Sound Module during their recordings. The electronic rock band LCD Soundsystem, for example, has been known to use MIDI Sound Modules during the making of all of their currently available studio albums.