How to Use a Sound Module

A sound module is an electronic musical instrument that is often played by an external device, usually a standard piano-type electronic keyboard. Sound modules are often controlled using MIDI and sometimes require external speakers for audio output. Common sound modules include drum machines and keyboards, some with MIDI inputs and outputs that allow them to be controlled and sequenced by an external MIDI controller.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• MIDI-capable keyboard
• Digital MIDI interface (optional)
• Computer with MIDI controlling software (optional)

Setup

1. Hook up your sound module. If the sound module does not have built-in speakers, you will need to find some speakers with compatible inputs in order to hear the audio. A basic sound module setup will include the sound module, a pair of headphones or a speaker and a power cord.

2. Play your sound module. Often, sound modules are keyboards or other objects with keys like a piano. Other sound modules have their own unique key layout.

3. Change the sounds. Many sound modules offer multiple sounds that can be changed using switches or a selection menu. On a Yamaha Portatone keyboard, the sound selection is made using a selection menu with instruments that coincide with numbers. When an instrument number is entered into the menu using the numerical keypad on the Portatone, the sound comes up.

4. Tinker with the settings. Many sound modules offer options that allow you to tweak the sound, add reverb or change the way the keys work. Some sound modules have built-in rhythm and drum beats, pre-made songs and the capability to record, while other sound modules are very simple and lack even a headphone jack.

Midi Control

5. Install your digital MIDI sequencing hardware and drivers, and make sure it is properly detected by your MIDI sequencing software.

6. Connect your MIDI-capable keyboard to your digital MIDI interface (Midi to USB or Firewire, like the TASCAM US-122) using a pair of MIDI cables. The MIDI inputs on a keyboard are often located in the back, but check your manual to see if the keyboard has a guide to using your MIDI inputs.

7. Start up your MIDI-controlling software (Reason, Pro Tools). If the digital MIDI interface is correctly installed, your MIDI software should locate it and allow you to connect to the sound module. If the software does not automatically detect the keyboard on your MIDI interface, see References below for a way to install or specify audio and MIDI devices.

8. Choose your sound. Often, a computer MIDI software controller will not play a default sound. To hear sounds from the keyboard through the computer, you must specify a sound for the software to play.

9. Record your MIDI sequence. Most MIDI controlling software allows you to record the sequence that you play as you play it. This is an entertaining feature because it allows you to play back the notes and timing you played, but with different sounds. Try recording a song then playing it back with a different sound than you recorded it.

Tips & Warnings

• If your software cannot detect your digital MIDI interface, check to see that the drivers are properly installed. Some keyboards can be externally controlled by computer MIDI devices, allowing playback of computer-based MIDI through the keyboard sound module.
• Some MIDI software can require a lot of computer power to run, while others can be very compact and easy to use. Before installing a program, verify that your computer can run it.

References

• Sound Module
• MIDI
• Using a PC as a Sound Module

Resources

• TASCAM US-122 Digital MIDI interface
• Free MIDI Files