How to Connect a Laptop to MIDI
Want to connect your laptop to your keyboard or other MIDI instrument? MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) is the language electronic instruments use to communicate with one another and with computers, but most laptops don't have this interface built in. However, there are connectors available that will connect MIDI instruments to computers via Universal Serial Bus (USB, the most common computer connection now in use). Whether you're using your laptop for music recording, sequencing or even notation--with the right software and an open USB port, you can connect your laptop to your MIDI instrument.
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Things You'll Need
- Laptop with sound card installed
- Music software application
- MIDI instrument (e.g., keyboard, module)
- USB to MIDI connection
Instructions
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Decide on the right connector. If you need to run several MIDI instruments at once, you will likely need a more complex connector, such as an interface unit; if you're just connecting to a single instrument, a simple USB to MIDI cable will suffice. Prices generally range from the $30 range to several hundred dollars, depending on the connector, and can usually be purchased through a music store or online. (Some online stores are listed below in Resources.)
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Connect the MIDI side of your connection to the "MIDI In/Out" ports on your instrument, and the USB connector to your laptop. Power the instrument on, if necessary, so the computer recognizes it as a new piece of hardware. According to Music On My PC, most USB devices are now Plug-and-Play and will do most or all of the configuration automatically.
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Open the music software on your laptop. Test the connection; play your instrument and make sure it is registering on your software and is properly configured. If not, go into the "Preferences" or "Configuration" sections of the program, make certain it recognizes your MIDI instrument, that the program is configured to receive a signal from an external source, and that you have the program and instrument(s) set to the same MIDI channel. This step might take some work and concentration to get right, so be patient. Refer to the user guides for the software and/or instrument if you run into trouble.
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Use the new connection for recording, notation, playback or whatever other application for which you are using the MIDI connection.
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Tips & Warnings
USB ports are often used for power as well as data transfer; this may be particularly true if you are using a more complex conversion box for your USB to MIDI connection. If your USB port is sending power to another device, consider plugging your laptop into an electrical outlet to avoid draining the laptop battery.
Some devices are equipped for PC, some for Macintosh and some for both. Before purchasing a USB to MIDI connector, check to make sure it is designed to function with your laptop.
