Beginner's Guide to Midi Routing with Midicake ARP

video upload by midicake

"I get asked all the time how to connect Synths and MIDI Devices and so this short video runs through the practicalities of hooking up your hardware gear.

I'll show you how to connect multiple MIDI devices, how to utilize a MIDI Hub, how to set your MIDI Channels and how to connect it all together!

I hope you find it helpful. Enjoy!

Chapters:
00:00 Intro
00:23 Connecting to a Synth
01:03 Setting the MIDI Channel
02:09 Playing on Different MIDI Channels
02:37 Playing Multiple Synths
03:22 Adding more Synths
04:11 Using a MIDI Splitter
06:26 Playing Nord and Blofeld
07:52 Controlling ARP via USB (Note Sync)
10:35 Controlling ARP with MIDI DIN (Note Sync)
12:21 Summing Up"

Erica Synths Steampipe | Oberheim OB-X8 | Midicake ARP — Palisades (9 Jamuary 2025)

video upload by Moonbass Alpha

"Inspired by ‪@SynthDad‬ , I broke out my Midicake ARP to drive the Erica Synths Steampipe (not as intended) and an OB-X8 (borrowed from a friend)."

DB-01 sonic noodlings with Midicake Arp spice (no talk)

video upload by Richard DeHove

"The Midicake 'spice' here is using its new MIDI CC parameter controls to modulate parameters on the Strymon Timeline in real time. The delay parameters getting the four-channel CC treatment are mix, repeats, highpass and smear.

It's a just shame that all the Timeline delay parameters aren't available under each 'engine'. So, for example, the bit rate and sample rate parameters are only available on the lofi engine. Delays that could do this much better would be the Source Audio Nemesis or the Free the Tone Future factory - both of which I sold. Somewhat ironic since the reason I sold both of them were that their best parameters were too hard to access. Either would be brilliant with the MIDI CC power of Arp.

So if you have any gear which hides its best stuff in tortured menus or multi-button secondary layers then the Midicake Arp may be the answer. Suddenly anything with MIDI CC control is instantly available for clocked modulation. It's beautiful.

Not to forget the DB-01. Two years in and the machine still fascinates. Here I start with the unloved parameter combo of the triangle wave and bandpass filter. Together they can be rather anaemic lacking both harmonics and bottom end. Yet with a little drive or sub and careful filtering they can still put in a respectable showing. usually I like a clocked LFO, or at least some note-reset phase LFO, but here it's all unclocked audio-rate goodness. I don't vary the LFO rate because it's roughly "tuned" to fit the full application of FM.

And if you can withstand a full 3+ minutes of solo DB-01 then you have definitely levelled up in the DB-01 club :D

Many thanks to my kind patrons who keep this channel ad-free
My website: https://richarddehove.com/"

Nightverb automated by the Midicake Arp (no talk)

video upload by Richard DeHove

"Here's a somewhat chaotic collection of MIDI CC automation experiments using the Midicake Arp to generate the data. The Arp feeds the Nightverb synced data which affects the sounds coming in from the LXR-02. The Arp and LXR-02 are running from an external clock.

Originally I was blathering over the top about how it was all done but perhaps just seeing some of the twiddlings, especially toward the end of the video, may get the idea across just as well. I tried to give a wet and dry example of what's happening but this is all pulled from about a dozen or so meandering noodles so forgive me if they're not all perfectly structured. Headphones reveal some of the finer modulation timings. There's also a lot of unpleasant oddities but I thought them worth keeping to show the range of modulation.

The real star here is the Midicake Arp. The new v7 firmware is what opens up synced MIDI CC automation. Unless you've got a good dedicated sequencer, or take feeds from your DAW, chances are this hasn't been easily available. I remember looking into devices which would allow simple synchronized MIDI CC automation a few months ago and there weren't many choices. It's why I ended up selling my El Capistan. I bought that specifically for its "degrading loops" functionality but that only available by MIDI CC. In itself that's not too hard, but if you want it clock synced then that's another story.

Sending four channels of automation to the Nightverb, sometimes with extremely fast LFO-like modulations, did sometimes overload the Nightverb and require a power cycle. This usually happened if I flipped between intense presets while running.

If you have any high-end effect units chances are there are all sorts of interesting things available via MIDI CC. With Arp is very easy to access them in real-time sync. So congrats to Midicake for adding this excellent functionality!

0:00 Tippytap
0:40 Heavy gate
1:21 Distortomax
2:27 Bathroom War
3:30 Synth Mutant
5:08 Squarewaves

Many thanks to my kind patrons who keep this channel ad-free
My website: https://richarddehove.com/"

Midicake: Unleash the Modulation Beast - FREE V7 UPGRADE - Breaks All Rules!

video upload by midicake

"Is this the most continuously developed Music Device ever?

Midicake ARP just got a monstrous upgrade, and it's absolutely FREE! 🎹🔥

In this video, we dive deep into ARP V7's game-changing features that are reshaping the world of MIDI sequencing and modulation. Witness the power of:

Multi-dimensional control: Simultaneously tweak 4 synth parameters
Expanded modulation shapes with mind-bending deviations
Rhythmic innovation: From 16th to 32nd notes in extended cycles
Offbeat modulation for irresistible grooves
Seamless ARP-synth integration for organic, evolving sounds

Whether you're a seasoned ARP user or curious about taking your productions to the next level, this video showcases how V7 obliterates creative boundaries."

Chapters:
00:00 DEMO 1 - Introducing V7
00:24 Coming Up
00:58 Modulation Sequencing
03:20 Pushing the Boundaries
04:02 Double Trouble
04:34 200% FX
05:13 Docs
05:27 DEMO 2 - Heaps of Possibilities
06:07 DEMO 3 - MIDI CC Features
06:29 MIDI CC Output
07:08 Assigning Macros to CC
07:38 CC Modulation/LFOs
08:21 Layering CC Modulation
08:51 DEMO 4 - So Much Control
10:00 Pattern Modulation Targets
10:49 Increased Modulation Times
11:27 Up/Down Button Menu Navigation
11:55 MIDI Message Log
12:59 DEMO 5 - My Thoughts

Exploring New Scales with Midicake ARP

video upload by midicake

"In this video, I'll take you through my process of building classical music using the Midicake ARP and explore the new scales coming in the v7 firmware update. I'll show how different scales can dramatically affect the mood and atmosphere of the music, starting with more upbeat and vibrant tones, then transitioning to a more relaxed, almost soporific sound by the end.

Through this hands-on demo, you'll get to see my thought process as I experiment with the ARP's capabilities and discover how the various scales can be leveraged to compose emotive, atmospheric pieces. Whether you're a seasoned ARP user or brand new to the instrument, I hope this video provides inspiration and insights to enhance your own music production. Grab a cup of tea, sit back, and enjoy the gentle, soothing soundscapes.

Ready to take your melodies to new modes and moods? Hit play and let's go!"

OK FUZZY LOFI SYNTH W MIDICAKE ARP // NOTALK /CHROMA CONSOLE NOVATION CIRCUIT MX1

video upload by Ron Cavagnaro

Machina Bristronica 2024

video uploads by sonicstate

Playlist:

1. Bristronica 24: MyVolts The Silent Alchemist Nears Shipping

We caught up with Caroline who gave us the latest update to the *Silent Alchemist*, a versatile power hub designed for musicians. Featuring five isolated USB-C outputs and a high-wattage sixth output capable of delivering 100 watts, the device can power a Mac with the remaining outputs providing 20 watts each. Its independent circuits ensure noise-free operation, catering to a variety of devices including the Dreadbox module and Sysmo slope generator.

The Silent Alchemist uses innovative step-up power tips to convert USB-C input to the correct voltage for various devices. There's also new feature: an uninterruptible power supply allowing seamless transition between wall and power bank sources. Also introduced were updated cables, such as silver candy cords and floating ring TRS to TS cables, expanding connection flexibility. The Silent Alchemist is expected to be available in December with a competitive pricing strategy.

More Info:
https://myvolts.com/

2. Bristronica 24: Circuit Happy ML2M Clock Sync module updates

At Bristronica 2024, we caught up with the creator of the *ML2M*, who introduced us to the latest version. The ML2M is a compact Eurorack module with Wi-Fi capabilities, allowing seamless synchronization with Ableton Live, Bitwig Studio, and iOS music apps using Ableton Link without the need for cables. It either connects to an existing network or creates its own, ensuring robust sync even in environments with unreliable Wi-Fi. The module, which retains its 2HP size, now features MIDI integration through TRS jacks. Users can access a web interface to configure each output for different clock divisions and reset triggers, making setup straightforward and flexible.

Alongside the ML2M, there's also the Missing Link Junior. This desktop version offers the same functionality but in a box format, complete with MIDI and CV clock outputs. Both products are now accessible, with a starting price of $250.

3. Bristronica 24: Archaea Exchange Patching Module

At Machina Bristronica 2024, we caught up with Arran from ‪@archaea_modular_synthesis‬ who presented the *Exchange Module*. This programmable patcher, a year in the making, evolved from its early prototype stage to a fully functional module. Arran explained how the Exchange can route synth voices via a beam controller and three exchange modules installed within the skiff, allowing for versatile patching. Operating like a matrix patchbay, it enables users to select inputs and outputs with the push of a button, create presets, and chain multiple modules for synchronized patching.

Communication between the modules occurs over the Eurorack power bus as well as over MIDI via the USB-C connection. The Exchange maintains analog integrity, ensuring there’s no conversion latency. The forthcoming release expected in late November 2024, includes a USB-driven editor for enhanced control capabilities.

CLICK FOR MORE »

1 Hour Improvisation with Eurorack Modular Synths & Midicake

video upload by midicake

"An hour long, unplanned improv session with Midicake ARP and a very limited Eurorack setup.

Consisting of just 4 synths: 2hp Kick, 2hp Pluck, Knobula Pianophonic, Knobula Polycinematic. The Specular Tempus is providing reverb.

It's surprising just what variation you can get with this small setup. The sound is recorded as is with no post editing. I hope you enjoy!"

Cheating the Labyrinth: How to Use Smart Randomness in Music

video upload by midicake

"Unlock the secrets of controlled chaos in music production! In this video, we dive deep into the art of harnessing randomness to elevate your compositions.

Learn how to:
- Transform unpredictable patterns into exciting, organic soundscapes
- Apply controlled randomness to melody, rhythm and much more
- Create unique textures and evolving sequences
- Maintain musical coherence while embracing unpredictability

Discover how strategic randomness can be your secret weapon for creating fresh, innovative tracks. Learn to navigate the labyrinth of creativity!"

Chapters:
00:00 Intro
00:26 Coming Up
01:07 Random Generation
01:27 Making a Random Sequence
02:12 Randomness and Logic
02:42 Reigning in the Randomess
03:03 Setting the Boundaries
03:21 Chords and Scales
04:23 Building Harmony
05:38 Repeatability
06:26 How ARP's Random Sequence Generator works
07:56 A Deterministic System
08:18 More Random!
09:57 Conclusion

The Best Generative Hardware Sequencer of 2024? Midicake ARP's Amazing New Update

video upload by midicake

"Midicake ARP's Latest Update: A Game-Changer!

Discover the powerful new features in Midicake ARP's V6 update:

Awesome pattern sequencing engine
Exciting Binary Patterns feature
Chops and Ratchets for dynamic rhythms
Enhanced functionality: Patch Resets, Undo, Default Patterns
Improved workflow: Daisy Chaining, External Note & Macro enhancements
Expanded creativity: New Modulation and FX Targets

Plus, a completely reworked user manual to guide you through it all.

Experience the best version of Midicake ARP yet!"

-----

Press release follows:

Midicake ARP Unveils Powerful V6 Update: 46 Major Features and Counting

Midicake announces the launch of Version 6 for its innovative ARP platform, introducing a host of game-changing features in its fifth major update since release. This latest version solidifies ARP's position as a continually expanding musical ideas machine.
Headline Features of ARP V6:

• Revolutionary pattern sequencing engine
• Groundbreaking Binary Patterns feature
• Dynamic Chops and Ratchets functionality
• Advanced workflow enhancements: Patch Resets, Undo, and Daisy Chaining
• Expanded modulation and FX targets
• Comprehensive user manual overhaul

"With 46 major feature developments since launch, ARP V6 represents our commitment to continuous innovation," says Chris Brown. "We're pushing the boundaries of what's possible in music creation and production, while maintaining ARP’s intuitive interface that welcomes users of all skill levels."

Key Enhancements in Recent Updates:

• Pattern Sequencing: A complete overhaul of the sequencing engine, offering unprecedented creative control
• Binary Pattern Controls: A unique approach to rhythm and melody generation
• Performance Tools: New Chop and Ratchet features for dynamic live performances
• Workflow Optimization: Streamlined processes for faster, more intuitive music creation
• Expanded Modulation: Greater depth and complexity in sound design capabilities

This rapid pace of development sets ARP apart in the music technology industry. Regular, substantial updates have transformed ARP from an innovative concept into a comprehensive music production powerhouse.

ARP's parametric sequencing approach to melody and sequence generation continues to be a cornerstone of its appeal, offering an inspirational ideas machine that's both powerful and accessible.

See ARP V6 in action: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=28-dDGb9jqI
Existing ARP users can download the free V6 firmware update here: https://midicake.com/downloads

About Midicake: Midicake is at the forefront of sustainable music technology development. With a focus on long-term product lifecycles and continuous improvement, Midicake is committed to providing innovative solutions that respect both creative needs and environmental concerns.
For more information on ARP visit: https://midicake.com

Midicake Arp and The One Finger Jam (no talk)

video upload by Richard DeHove

"Something's wrong if you're making music but not having fun. It should all be fun. But writing good, coherent, interesting and long patterns is difficult (for me) and often liable not to be much fun. The usual path is to make a good 16-step pattern, copy it, add some variations, and bump to 32 steps. Then what about little fills and other bits? Now you're talking about "song mode" and other mathematical duties.

So the idea here was: Let's use the Arp to create long patterns, then hit record on the DB-01 and just feed in the result. I did try that and it worked a treat. But as an alternative you can just manually "play" the entire thing on the Arp - which is what I did here.

It took a bit of practice to get the timing right and I wouldn't want to be playing the entire "song" to a live audience with one finger unless there were a few other things running to cover in case of a mistake. Of course in the studio no one can hear you scream after five errors in a row.

Live-playing the DB-01s like this you lose various programmable goodness like the pitch envelopes, filter mod and accents; but on the flipside you can use portamento on the sequence (although I didn't here) and can use the Arp to set and vary the gate lengths. For example the top DB-01 is playing the high blippy theme on the Arp channel 3 and the longer three-note bass prod on channel 4. It can seemingly produce two sounds almost simultaneously because channel 3 has a short gate and high octave, while channel 4 has a long gate and low octave.

When you think about it that is pretty amazing work for an arpeggiator! It's like instant program change on a synth with no programs.

In this piece all the music is coming from the two DB-01s, with a drum track added afterwards in the DAW. I chopped it up a little to make a 90-second jam (instead of the 8-minute director's cut) but it is essentially live-played. There are no DAW effects, no extra layers or EQ.

After all this intricate fun it seems to me that calling the Midicake Arp an "arp" is monstrously understated. I see it more like your synths are big dumb blue-ribbon bovines standing around in a field and the Arp is a supercharged border collie begging to chase them through a Marine bootcamp obstacle course. Make those machines sweat! They cost enough.

Lots of downloads for supporters on Patreon: / richarddehove
Many thanks to my kind patrons who keep this channel ad-free
My website: https://richarddehove.com/"

What is MIDI Modulation? How to Make Awe-Inspiring Generative Music!

video upload by midicake

"Looking for new musical ideas? Midicake ARP's modulation superpowers will generate original music ideas that stand out and let your creative talents shine.

MIDI Modulation is an incredibly powerful technique that works on the fundamental building blocks of music to uncover an almost unlimited wealth of new musical melodies, rhythms and beats that can drive your inspiration.

Let's take a look at some amazing modulation examples and build a track together."

Creating Something from Nothing

video upload by midicake

"Building patches with sounds from the Synclavier, Moog Modular, Jupiter 8 and Stage 73 is so easy with Midicake ARP.

Starting with a blank pattern, we'll go through the steps of building a patch and try to make something wonderful.

All sounds are from the Arturia V collection."

Tutorial | Configuring Live Play on Midicake ARP

video upload by midicake

"A short tutorial on how to configure Midicake ARP for Live Play with an external MIDI controller.

ARP supports MIDI Through, Global Scale Setting and Live Triggering of Sequences. This is how it can be configured."

8 Bit Super Computer | Midicake ARP

video upload by midicake

Fun video. How many games can you identify?

"👾I've been experimenting with #8Bit Computer Game Music and #MidicakeARP. 🕹️

I made a long video but failed to record one of the MIDI channels, so I need to re-record it. Anyway, here's a little snippet.

Using the fantastic #SuperAudioBoy for #NativeInstruments #Kontact."

DAWLess Mini Synth JAM | J-6 & JX-08 | Volca Beats | Midicake ARP

video upload by midicake

"A friend lent me some little Roland synthesizers to try out with Midicake ARP. They are both packed with good sounds and very playable. For that Mid-80s vibe, they really shine.

I'm not that taken with the J-6 sequencer but, given its size, it still packs a lot in. Once you disable the in-built sequencers, however, driving them with ARP makes for a brilliantly compact tabletop setup!

And, of course, ARP opens up possibilities that just can't be achieved any other way. Who needs Astrolab!? ;)"

MidiCake Arp embiggens the smallest mono synths

video upload by Richard DeHove

"It's a rare day that I'll abandon the superb sequencers of the DB-01 for an external source. Much is lost when you go external - accents, filter modulation and pitch envelopes just for starters. Yet the MidiCake Arp gives in return: Powerful one-finger pattern-play, gate length modulation, 32nd notes and even patterns with portamento.

So here are five example Arp patterns ranging from somewhat cheesy to somewhat dark. Ideally I would have used lots of other effects, but I wanted to keep everything compact so one DB-01 gets the DM-2w delay, the other gets either the Astronaut reverb or Nemesis delay.

For some reason the Arp locks the DB-01s LFO sync to one rate, so the LFOs are always free-running. Other than that it was very smooth. The DB-01s are of course in "key" mode because that's what's needed to trigger them. A useful byproduct of this is that the DB-01 portamento can now be used in sequences!

The MidiCake Arp is an amazing little machine. Complex, but amazing. After many hours I know I'm just scratching around doing pretty obvious things yet that's still very satisfying. I rather like that its possibilities are so vast you can choose your own way into its abilities. In the five examples I mostly have 'play' mode enabled which means the patterns run as a continuously synced whole. In others 'play' mode is off and I manually trigger things (tracks 4 & 5), which is much more unforgiving, but gives a little more flexability. In any case you can see how simple the basic notes are against the complexity of the result.

As usual I've kept everything simple (ie without drums etc) so you can get a good idea what's going on. And no DAW post-processing of any sort.

0:00 Flutterings
0:56 Memories
2:16 Pokery
3:25 Sliders
4:42 Regrets

Lots of downloads for supporters on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/richarddehove
Many thanks to my kind patrons who keep this channel ad-free
My website: https://richarddehove.com/"

Chord Progressions Made Easy | Midicake ARP

video upload by midicake

"Chord Progressions Made Easy with Midicake ARP Ⓜ️🆔ℹ️🍰

I've been wanting to do something more orchestral for a while and this is it. Experimenting with chord progressions on ARP is so easy. Whether you have music theory knowledge or not, ARP gives you fast access to thousands of chords and the freedom to explore what works best for your compositions.

This was made with various sample pack sounds, while ARP provided the arrangement with just a few parameter tweaks."

Uptempo jam with Midicake ARP, Dreadbox Nymphes, Moog Minitaur, Mother 32, MSW-810, DrumBrute Impact

video upload by Jay Hosking

"A live synthesizer jam performed entirely on hardware.

I've had this chord progression kicking around for a little while, the product of a voice-leading exercise I was doing. I was super happy with it but never able to incorporate it into a larger arrangement. Recently, I realized I could just run the chord progression through the Midicake ARP and get some inspiration on the song arrangement, and sure enough, that was all it took (along with a few amazing synthesizers and effects). Really happy with where this one ended up.

Full disclosure: I cut and paste a previous drum fill to the outro drum fill, because I felt the outro drum fill didn't match the quality of the earlier one. Seemed a more judicious approach than recording the whole thing again.

Thanks for listening.

Dirtywave M8 - chord progression sequence
Midicake ARP - four-part sequencing arranger for the chord progression
Kenton MIDI Thru - MIDI Thru out to five devices
DrumBrute Impact through Empress EchoSystem - Drums
Moog Mother 32 through Kinotone Ribbons - Slower mono synth
Michigan Synth Works MSW-810 through Hologram Chroma Console - Faster mono synth
Moog Minitaur through Boss DM-101 - Bass synth
Dreadbox Nymphes through Empress Reverb - Pad synth

Performed and recorded live (minus that small drum edit) to a multitrack recording, with EQ, compression, and limiting on the master.

https://jayhosking.bandcamp.com"