DAW Setup Guide

In order to make the installation and setup of the reKon audio plugin software as simple as possible for the user, we have provided this DAW Setup Guide. In it you will find instructions for setting up your VST-AU Editor software in your preferred DAW of choice, and options for setting up your MIDI routing between applications.

Before reading this guide, it is recommended that you first read the Global User Manual, as it will explain the software and its use in more detail. Also, be sure to read the specific product's User Manual to ensure you have all your hardware settings set correctly.

 

Table of Contents

 

 

DAW Host Setup

Setup instructions for each of the supported DAW applications can be found below. Follow these instructions for your DAW and you should be up and running quickly.

READ THIS, IT'S IMPORTANT!!! When using the plug-in in a DAW host application, you must first disable the MIDI port that is connected to the hardware Synthesizer in the DAW's MIDI setup or preferences. This will then make that MIDI port available for use within the VST-AU Editor's MIDI Setup view. Failing to do this will not allow the MIDI port in the Editor to work and the software will not be able to communicate with the Synthesizer properly. You can use a virtual MIDI port (loopMIDI, loopBe, etc.) if you wish to have a direct connection to the hardware Synthesizer from the DAW, and to the VST-AU Editor. See the Using Virtual MIDI Cable Devices section for more information.

 

 

Steinberg Cubase and Nuendo Setup Instructions

Steinberg Cubase

Prepare Devices:

  1. Make sure you have read the Global User Manual and the User Manual for the product you are using first!
  2. Open Steinberg Cubase or Nuendo.
  3. Open the 'Devices/Device Setup/Audio' dialog. Ensure the audio device connected to your Synthesizer is activated and working.
  4. Open the 'Devices/Device Setup/MIDI' dialog. Ensure any MIDI devices that are connected to the hardware Synthesizer are turned off here.
  5. Open the 'Preferences/File Folder' dialog. Ensure the path to the VST-AU Editor is set in the plug-in search path and that the plug-in appears in the Live Plug-In list.
  6. Set up a MIDI controller keyboard to send note data to the hardware Synthesizer and record into the sequencer.
  7. Read and follow any special setup steps for your Synthesizer by referring to the the VST-AU Editor User Manual for your Editor product.

Setup Project:

  1. Create a new Project.
  2. Open your 'VST Instruments' panel and then select the VST-AU Editor VST in a slot.
  3. In the tracks I/O settings, set the 'MIDI From' value to the MIDI controller keyboard input (from the Prepare step 6 above). Do not use the audio here for the input from the Synthesizer, instead see Step 6 below.
  4. Ensure the 'Monitor' (yellow 'speaker' icon) is on for this track.
  5. Open the 'MIDI Setup' dialog in the Editor and select the Editor MIDI Input and Editor MIDI Output ports and channels* that the hardware Synthesizer is connected to (the ones removed from Step 3 in Prepare Devices above).
  6. Create a separate 'Audio Track'. Set the 'Input' to the audio port that the Synthesizer is connected to. You can monitor and record audio from the Synthesizer into this track.
  7. Open the 'MIDI Monitor' to view MIDI data moving through the system as you move controls.

Automation:

  1. Select the track the Editor is on.
  2. In the 'VST Instrument' track you will see one automated parameter showing called 'Volume', you can use the menu there to select the parameter(s) you wish to automate.
  3. Please refer to the Cubase User Manual for more information on using automation.


 

 

Ableton Live Setup Instructions

Ableton Live

Prepare Devices:

  1. Make sure you have read the Global User Manual and the User Manual for the product you are using first!
  2. Open Ableton Live.
  3. Open the 'Preferences/Audio' dialog. Ensure the audio device connected to your Synthesizer is activated and working.
  4. Open the 'Preferences/MIDI' dialog. Ensure any MIDI devices that are connected to the hardware Synthesizer are turned off here.
  5. Open the 'Preferences/File Folder' dialog. Ensure the path to the VST-AU Editor is set in the plug-in search path and that the plug-in appears in the Live Plug-In list.
  6. Set up a MIDI controller keyboard to send note data to the hardware Synthesizer and record into the sequencer.
  7. Read and follow any special setup steps for your Synthesizer by referring to the the VST-AU Editor User Manual for your Editor product.

Setup Project:

  1. Create a new Live Set.
  2. Drag the VST-AU Editor to a new track.
  3. In the tracks I/O settings, set the 'MIDI From' value to the MIDI controller keyboard input (from the Prepare step 4 above). Do not use the audio here for the input from the Synthesizer, instead see Step 6 below.
  4. Ensure the 'Monitor' (orange 'in' icon) is on for this track.
  5. Open the 'MIDI Setup' dialog in the Editor and select the Editor MIDI Input and Editor MIDI Output ports and channels* that the hardware Synthesizer is connected to (the ones removed from Step 4 in Prepare Devices above). *Note that in Live, you must use MIDI channel 1.
  6. Create a separate 'Audio Track'. Set the 'Input' to the audio port that the Synthesizer is connected to. You can monitor and record audio from the Synthesizer into this track.
  7. Open the 'MIDI Monitor' to view MIDI data moving through the system as you move controls. Test it out.

Automation:

  1. Select the track the Editor is on.
  2. By default, you will not see any automate-able parameters. You need to assign them in Live. Show the 'Detail View', then 'Unfold device parameters' for the plug-in.
  3. Click the 'Configure' button. Select some parameters in the Editor and these will now be assigned for automation.
  4. Hit 'Play' and start moving controls in the Editor. You will see your automation recorded.
  5. Please refer to the Live User Manual for more information on using automation in Live.


 

 

Apple Logic Pro Setup Instructions

Apple Logic Pro

* Note that Logic Pro does not have a MIDI Setup dialog that would allow you to select the ports you wish to activate or deactivate. It uses the Mac IAC driver (Audio/MIDI Setup application) and the 'Environment' view for its MIDI selection. The default 'Sum' port setting is 'All MIDI Inputs'. You will need to remove this 'Sum' connection, and select your MIDI Inputs and Outputs carefully. Otherwise, MIDI feedback loops or crashing could occur. Please refer to the Logic Pro user manual for more information on setting up and using MIDI in Logic Pro.

Prepare Devices:

  1. Make sure you have read the Global User Manual and the User Manual for the product you are using first!
  2. Open Logic Pro.
  3. Open the 'Preferences/Audio' dialog. Ensure the audio device connected to your Synthesizer is activated and working.
  4. Open the 'Preferences/Audio Unit Manage' dialog. Ensure the Audio Unit plug-in is in the list and check box activated.
  5. Open the 'Environment' view. Make sure your MIDI Input stream is NOT coming from the default 'Sum' port setting. If it is, remove this connection,and then create a single connection from your MIDI controller keyboard port.
  6. Read and follow any special setup steps for your Synthesizer by referring to the the VST-AU Editor User Manual for your Editor product.

Setup Project:

  1. Create a new Logic Project.
  2. In the 'New Tracks' dialog that automatically pops up, select 'Type= Software Instrument'. Click the 'Create' button.
  3. In the Instrument track that was created, click the 'I/O' button (located on the far left near the bottom right below the 'I/O'
    label and above the 'Stereo Out' button).
  4. Select the Editor under 'AU Instruments/reKon audio/VST-AU Editor'. The plug-in should appear.
  5. In the tracks MIDI I/O settings, set the 'MIDI From' value to the MIDI controller keyboard input (from the Prepare step 4 above). Do not use the audio here for the input from the Synthesizer, instead see Step 8 below.
  6. Ensure the 'Monitor' (icon) is on for this track.
  7. Open the 'MIDI Setup' dialog in the Editor and select the Editor MIDI Input and Editor MIDI Output ports and channels* that the hardware Synthesizer is connected to (the ones removed from Step 4 in Prepare Devices above).
  8. Create a separate 'Audio Track'. Set the 'Input' to the audio port that the Synthesizer is connected to. You can monitor and record audio from the Synthesizer into this track.
  9. Open the Editor's 'MIDI Monitor' to view MIDI data moving through the system as you move controls. Test it out.

Automation:

  1. Select the track the Editor is on.
  2. Click the 'View' menu and select 'Automation' (or use the 'A' key).
  3. You will see the automation lanes for the Editor.
  4. You can add automation lanes for parameters you wish to automate.
  5. Please refer to the Logic User Manual for more information on using automation.

 

 

Propellerheads Reason Setup Instructions

Propellerheads Reason

Prepare Devices:

  1. Make sure you have read the Global User Manual and the User Manual for the product you are using first!
  2. Open Reason.
  3. Open the 'Preferences/Audio' dialog. Ensure the audio device connected to your Synthesizer is activated and working.
  4. Open the 'Preferences/Audio Unit Manage' dialog. Ensure the Audio Unit plug-in is in the list and check box activated.
  5. Open the 'Environment' view. Make sure your MIDI Input stream is NOT coming from the default 'Sum' port setting. If it is, remove this connection,and then create a single connection from your MIDI controller keyboard port.
  6. Read and follow any special setup steps for your Synthesizer by referring to the the VST-AU Editor User Manual for your Editor product.

Setup Project:

  1. Create a new Reason Project.
  2. In the 'New Tracks' dialog that automatically pops up, select 'Type= Software Instrument'. Click the 'Create' button.
  3. In the Instrument track that was created, click the 'I/O' button (located on the far left near the bottom right below the 'I/O'
    label and above the 'Stereo Out' button).
  4. Select the Editor under 'AU Instruments/reKon audio/VST-AU Editor'. The plug-in should appear.
  5. In the tracks MIDI I/O settings, set the 'MIDI From' value to the MIDI controller keyboard input (from the Prepare step 4 above). Do not use the audio here for the input from the Synthesizer, instead see Step 8 below.
  6. Ensure the 'Monitor' (icon) is on for this track.
  7. Open the 'MIDI Setup' dialog in the Editor and select the Editor MIDI Input and Editor MIDI Output ports and channels* that the hardware Synthesizer is connected to (the ones removed from Step 4 in Prepare Devices above).
  8. Create a separate 'Audio Track'. Set the 'Input' to the audio port that the Synthesizer is connected to. You can monitor and record audio from the Synthesizer into this track.
  9. Open the Editor's 'MIDI Monitor' to view MIDI data moving through the system as you move controls. Test it out.

Automation:

  1. Select the track the Editor is on.
  2. Click the 'View' menu and select 'Automation' (or use the 'A' key).
  3. You will see the automation lanes for the Editor.
  4. You can add automation lanes for parameters you wish to automate.
  5. Please refer to the Logic User Manual for more information on using automation.

 

 

Cakewalk by Bandlab Setup Instructions

Cakewalk by Bandlab

Prepare Devices:

  1. Make sure you have read the Global User Manual and the User Manual for the product you are using first!
  2. Open Cakewalk by Bandlab.
  3. Open the 'Preferences/Audio/Devices' dialog. Ensure the audio device connected to your Synthesizer is activated and working.
  4. Open the 'Preferences/MIDI Devices' dialog. Ensure any MIDI devices that are connected to the hardware Synthesizer are turned off here.
  5. Set up a MIDI controller keyboard to send note data to the hardware Synthesizer and record into the sequencer.
  6. Open the Preferences/VST Settings' dialog. Ensure the path to the VST-AU Editor is set in the plug-in search path.
  7. Read and follow any special setup steps for your Synthesizer by referring to the the VST-AU Editor User Manual for your Editor product.

Setup Project:

  1. Create a new Project.
  2. On the 'Plug-Ins' list, double click the VST-AU Editor. It will pop open a 'Insert Soft Synth Options' dialog.
  3. Select 'MIDI Source' and 'All Synth Audio Outputs:Stereo', 'Enable MIDI Output' checkboxes. Set 'Display MIDI Automation' on the 'MIDI Source Track'. Click 'Ok'.
  4. Select the MIDI track that got created above. Select the MIDI controller keyboard input (from the Prepare Devices Step 4 above) for the MIDI Input. Leave the 'MIDI Output' to the Editor as it is.
  5. Ensure the 'Monitor' (blue 'Input Echo' icon) is on for this track.
  6. Open the 'MIDI Setup' dialog in the editor and select the MIDI Input and Output ports that the hardware Synthesizer is connected to (the ones removed from Step 4 in Prepare Devices above).
  7. Open the 'MIDI Monitor' to view MIDI data moving through the system as you move controls. Test it out.
  8. Select the audio track that got created'. Set the 'Input' to the audio port that the Synthesizer is connected to. You can monitor and record audio from the Synthesizer into this track.

Automation:

  1. Open the Editor plug-in window view.
  2. Click the 'Automation Mode' button to select 'W'.
  3. Select the MIDI track the editor is on. Turn on the 'Record' button.
  4. Click the 'Clips' drop down. Select the parameter to automate from the 'Automation/VST-AU Editor' list.
  5. Hit play and move controls to record the automation.

 

 

Bitwig Studio Setup Instructions

Bitwig Studio

Prepare Devices:

  1. Make sure you have read the Global User Manual and the User Manual for the product you are using first!
  2. Open Bitwig Studio.
  3. Open the 'Options/Audio/Audio System' dialog. Ensure the audio device connected to your Synthesizer is activated and working.
  4. Open the 'Options/Controllers' dialog. Ensure any MIDI devices that are connected to the hardware Synthesizer are turned off here.
  5. Set up a MIDI controller keyboard to send note data to the hardware Synthesizer and record into the sequencer.
  6. Open the Options/Plug-In Management' dialog. Ensure the path to the VST-AU Editor is set in the plug-in search path.
  7. Read and follow any special setup steps for your Synthesizer by referring to the the VST-AU Editor User Manual for your Editor product.

Setup Project:

  1. Create a new Project.
  2. On the 'Plug-Ins' list, double click the VST-AU Editor. It will pop open a new instance of the editor GUI and create an Instrument track.
  3. Select 'All ins' drop down and select the MIDI Input port connection to your remote controller keyboard (not the Synthesizer) if you have one.
  4. Ensure the 'Auto Monitor' is on for this track.
  5. Open the 'MIDI Setup' dialog in the editor and select the MIDI Input and Output ports that the hardware Synthesizer is connected to (the ones removed from Step 4 in Prepare Devices above).
  6. Open the 'MIDI Monitor' to view MIDI data moving through the system as you move controls. Test it out.
  7. Select the audio track that got created'. Set the 'Input' to the audio port that the Synthesizer is connected to. You can monitor and record audio from the Synthesizer into this track.

Automation:

  1. Open the Editor plug-in window view.
  2. Click the 'W' button to select Write automation mode.
  3. Select the MIDI track the editor is on. Turn on the 'Record' button.
  4. Select the parameter to automate from the 'Automation/VST-AU Editor' list.
  5. Hit play and move controls to record the automation.

 

 

PreSonus Studio One Setup Instructions

Presonus StudioOne

Prepare Devices:

  1. Make sure you have read the Global User Manual and the User Manual for the product you are using first!
  2. Open PreSonus Studio One.
  3. Open the 'Studio One/Preferences/Audio Setup' dialog. Ensure the audio device connected to your Synthesizer is activated and working.
  4. Open the 'Studio One/Preferences/External Devices' dialog. Ensure any MIDI devices that are connected to the hardware Synthesizer are turned off here.
  5. Open the 'Studio One/Preferences/VST' dialog. Ensure the path to the VST-AU Editor is set in the plug-in search path.
  6. Set up a MIDI controller keyboard to send note data to the hardware Synthesizer and record into the sequencer. Click 'Add', select 'New Keyboard' from the list. Set the 'Receive From' value to the MIDI Keyboard device. Click 'Ok'. Click 'Ok'.
  7. Read and follow any special setup steps for your Synthesizer by referring to the the VST-AU Editor User Manual for your Editor product.

Setup Project:

  1. Create a new Song or Project.
  2. Drag the VST-AU Editor to a new track.
  3. In the track, select the MIDI controller keyboard input (from the Prepare step 3 above) for the MIDI Input. Leave the 'MIDI Output' to the Editor as it is.
  4. Ensure the 'Monitor' (blue Speaker icon) is on for this track.
  5. Open the 'MIDI Setup' dialog in the editor and select the MIDI Input and Output ports that the hardware Synthesizer is connected to (the ones removed from Step 3 in Prepare Devices above).
  6. Open the 'MIDI Monitor' to view MIDI data moving through the system as you move controls. Test it out.
  7. Create an 'Audio Track'. Set the 'Input' to the audio port that the Synthesizer is connected to. You can monitor and record audio from the Synthesizer into this track.

Automation:

  1. Open the Editor plug-in window view.
  2. Click the 'Automation Mode', button and select 'Read' from the list.
  3. Select the 'Instrument track' the editor is on. Turn on the 'Record' button.
  4. Click the 'A' button to see the 'Automation' track view. Click the 'Display:Off' box. Select 'Add / Remove'.
  5. Copy over (from right to left box) the parameters you wish to view in the track automation. Click 'Close'.
  6. Now select the parameters you want to automate in the track and draw or record your automation.
  7. Hit 'Play' and start moving controls in the Editor. You will see your automation recorded.

 

 

MOTU Digital Performer Setup Instructions

MOTU Digital Performer

* Note that Digital Performer does not have a MIDI Setup dialog that would allow you to select the ports you wish to activate or deactivate. It uses the Mac IAC driver (Audio/MIDI Setup application) for its MIDI selection. Please refer to the Digital Performer user manual for more information on setting up and using MIDI in Digital Performer.

Prepare Devices:

  1. Make sure you have read the Global User Manual and the User Manual for the product you are using first!
  2. Open MOTU Digital Performer.
  3. Ensure the audio device connected to your Synthesizer is activated and working. Use OSX 'Audio/MIDI Setup' to configure audio and MIDI hardware.
  4. Open the 'Preferences/General/Audio PlugIns' dialog. Ensure the plug-in is listed and enabled.
  5. Read and follow any special setup steps for your Synthesizer by referring to the the VST-AU Editor User Manual for your Editor product.

Setup Project:

 

  1. Create a new Digital Performer Project.
  2. In the 'Tracks' are, right click and select 'Add Track>Instrument Track>reKon audio>VST-AU Synth Editor'. The plug-in should appear.
  3. Right click again and create MIDI track. Select the 'MIDI Output' on this track to go to the 'VST-AU Synth Editor' (MIDI channel of choice).
  4. Right click one more time and create an Audio track. Route the audio 'Input' from the Synthesizer here, and set the 'MON' (blue speaker icon) to 'on'. You can monitor and record audio from the Synthesizer into this track.
  5. Open the 'MIDI Setup' dialog in the Editor and select the Editor MIDI Input and Editor MIDI Output ports and channels that the hardware Synthesizer is connected to.
  6. Open the Editor's 'MIDI Monitor' to view MIDI data moving through the system as you move controls. Test it out.

Automation:

  1. Select the track the Editor is on.
  2. Use the 'Setup/Automation Setup' to configure the automation preferences.
  3. In the Plug-In view, select 'auto' or 'latch' method in the combo box in the top right.
  4. Hit record and move some parameters. You will see these are automated in the 'Track' and 'Sequencer' view.
  5. Please refer to the Digital Performer User Manual for more information on using plug-ins and automation.

 

 

Cockos Reaper Setup Instructions

Cockos Reaper

Prepare Devices:

  1. Make sure you have read the Global User Manual and the User Manual for the product you are using first!
  2. Open Cockos Reaper.
  3. Open the 'Options/Preferences/Audio' tab. Ensure the audio device connected to your Synthesizer is activated and working.
  4. Open the 'Options/Preferences/MIDI Devices' tab. Ensure any MIDI devices that are connected to the hardware Synthesizer are turned off here.
  5. Set up a MIDI controller keyboard to send note data to the hardware Synthesizer and record into the sequencer.
  6. Open the 'Options/Preferences//Plug-Ins/VST' tab. Ensure the path to the VST-AU Editor is set in the plug-in search path and that the plug-in appears in the Live Plug-In list.
  7. Read and follow any special setup steps for your Synthesizer by referring to the the VST-AU Editor User Manual for your Editor product.

Setup Project:

  1. Create a new Project.
  2. Select 'Insert/Virtual Instrument on New Track'. Select the VST-AU Editor.
  3. In the tracks I/O settings, set the 'Input: MIDI' value to the MIDI controller keyboard input (from the Prepare step 5 above). Do not use the audio here for the input from the Synthesizer, instead see Step 6 below.
  4. Ensure the 'Monitor' (yellow 'speaker' icon) is on for this track.
  5. Open the 'MIDI Setup' dialog in the Editor and select the Editor MIDI Input and Editor MIDI Output ports and channels* that the hardware Synthesizer is connected to (the ones removed from Step 3 in Prepare Devices above).
  6. Create a separate 'Audio Track'. Set the 'Input' to the audio port that the Synthesizer is connected to. You can monitor and record audio from the Synthesizer into this track.
  7. Open the 'MIDI Monitor' to view MIDI data moving through the system as you move controls. Test it out.

Automation:

  1. Select the track the Editor is on.
  2. Click the 'Track Envelopes/Automation' button. Select the parameters you wish to automate.
  3. Please refer to the Cockos Reaper User Manual for more information on using automation.

 

 

Imageline FL Studio (Fruity Loops) Setup Instructions

ImageLine FLStudio

Prepare Devices:

  1. Make sure you have read the Global User Manual and the User Manual for the product you are using first!
  2. Open FL Studio.
  3. Open the 'Options/Audio Settings' dialog. Ensure the audio device connected to your Synthesizer is activated and working.
  4. Open the 'Options/MIDI Settings' dialog. Ensure any MIDI devices that are connected to the hardware Synthesizer are turned off here. This is important for the Editor to work!
  5. Open the 'Options/File Settings' dialog. Ensure the path to the VST-AU Editor is set in the plug-in search path and that the plug-in appears in the Plug-In list (channels).
  6. Set up a MIDI controller keyboard to send note data to the hardware Synthesizer and record into the sequencer.
  7. Read and follow any special setup steps for your Synthesizer by referring to the the VST-AU Editor User Manual for your Editor product.

Setup Project:

  1. Create a new Project.
  2. Click the 'Channels' panel, ‘Add one’ and then select the VST-AU Editor VST.
  3. Open the 'MIDI Setup' dialog in the Editor and select the Editor MIDI Input and Editor MIDI Output ports and channels that the hardware Synthesizer is connected to (the ones removed from Step 3 in Prepare Devices above).
  4. Select the Editor by clicking the light button next to it. It should turn green to indicate that channel is selected.
  5. Select a channel in FL Studio’s mixer to be used for external audio input. Select your audio device in the ‘In’ section for this channel. The sound from the hardware Synthesizer will now be heard through this channel. You can monitor and record audio from the Synthesizer into this track. You can record the audio by loading Edison into this mixer channel. When you play some notes or use the piano roll, set Edison to record the incoming audio from the hardware Synthesizer. You can save the audio as .wav file and load it again into the project.
  6. Open the 'MIDI Monitor' to view MIDI data moving through the system as you move controls. Test it out.

Automation:

  1. Select the track the Editor is on.
  2. Turn the knob you want to automate in the Editor.
  3. Go to ‘Tools – Last Tweaked – Create Automation Clip’. You can now draw lines and curves to automate the specific knob.
  4. Please refer to the FL Studio User Manual for more information on using automation.

 

 

Acoustica Mixcraft Setup Instructions

Acoustica _Mixcraft

Prepare Devices:

  1. Make sure you have read the Global User Manual and the User Manual for the product you are using first!
  2. Open Mixcraft.
  3. Open the 'File/Preferences/Sound Device' tab. Ensure the audio device connected to your Synthesizer is activated and working.
  4. Open the 'File/Preferences/MIDI' tab. Ensure any MIDI devices that are connected to the hardware Synthesizer are turned off here. This is important for the Editor to work!
  5. In the same MIDI tab, set up a MIDI controller keyboard here to send note data to the hardware Synthesizer and record into the sequencer.
  6. Open the 'File/Preferences/PLug-Ins' tab. Ensure the 'Load VST effects and instruments (VST + VST3)' is checked.
  7. Read and follow any special setup steps for your Synthesizer by referring to the the VST-AU Editor User Manual for your Editor product.

Setup Project:

  1. Create a new Project.
  2. Select the 'Track/Add Track/Virtual Instrument Track' menu item. It will add a track.
  3. In the new track, click the 'Change Instrument' button (keyboard icon). Select '' and select the Editor plug-in.
  4. Open the 'MIDI Setup' dialog in the Editor and select the Editor MIDI Input and Editor MIDI Output ports and channels that the hardware Synthesizer is connected to (the ones removed from Step 3 in Prepare Devices above).
  5. Open the 'MIDI Monitor' to view MIDI data moving through the system as you move controls. Test it out.

Automation:

  1. Select the 'Toggle Automation' button on the track the Editor is on.
  2. In the drop down, select the Parameter you wish to automate. Click the 'Arm' button on this automation track.
  3. You can now draw lines and curves to automate the specific Parameter.
  4. Please refer to theAcoustica Mixcraft User Manualfor more information on using automation.

 

 

Magix Acid Pro Setup Instructions

Magix AcidPro

Prepare Devices:

  1. Make sure you have read the Global User Manual and the User Manual for the product you are using first!
  2. Open Acid Pro.
  3. Open the 'Options/Preferences/Audio Device' tab. Ensure the audio device connected to your Synthesizer is activated and working.
  4. Open the 'Options/Preferences/MIDI' tab. Ensure any MIDI devices that are connected to the hardware Synthesizer are turned off here. This is important for the Editor to work!
  5. In the same MIDI tab, set up a MIDI controller keyboard here to send note data to the hardware Synthesizer and record into the sequencer.
  6. Read and follow any special setup steps for your Synthesizer by referring to the the VST-AU Editor User Manual for your Editor product.

Setup Project:

  1. Create a new Project.
  2. In the 'Plugin Manager' panel, select the VST-AU Editor plug-in.
  3. Open the Editor's 'MIDI Setup' view and select the MIDI Input and MIDI Output ports and channels that the hardware Synthesizer is connected to (the ones removed from Step 3 in Prepare Devices above).
  4. Open the 'MIDI Monitor' to view MIDI data moving through the system as you move controls. Test it out.

Automation:

  1. Right-click the track the Editor is on. Select 'Insert/Remove Envelope/Soft-Synth Automation'.
  2. In the dialog that opens, check the Parameters you wish to automate. Also set these Envelopes to 'Visible'. Close the dialog.
  3. You can now draw lines and curves to automate the selected Parameters.
  4. Please refer to the Magix Acid Pro User Manual for more information on automation.

 

 

Keeping Information Up-to-Date

We do our best to ensure this DAW Setup Guide is as up-to-date as possible. However, DAW manufacturers may change the way their products work over time. If you find that the information provided in this document is no longer valid or relevant, please help us and others out by letting us know and we will review and update the information on this page accordingly.

 

 

DAW MIDI Routing Options

Sending DAW MIDI Sequencer Data to the Synthesizer:

Option 1 (VST2 and AU Only)

You will be able to send host sequencer data (Note On/Off, Pitch bend, Modulation, Continuous Controller, Aftertouch and Poly Pressure messages) to the Synthesizer by sending the MIDI track sequence data through the VST-AU Editor track instead of directly from the DAW.

Option 2

You can use a Virtual MIDI Device MIDI Out port that can be used by both the DAW and the Editor at the same time. The DAW will now send MIDI Note/On Off data directly to the Synthesizer, instead of through the Editor, resulting in better MIDI timing for Note On/Off events. Use the MIDI Setup view to turn off any MIDI data from the Host or Editor that you do not want repeated or processed.

Receiving MIDI Sequencer data:

Option 1

You could record sequence data (Note On/Off, Pitch bend, Modulation, Continuous Controller, Aftertouch and Poly Pressure messages) into the DAW sequencer track by performing it directly on the Synthesizer (if it has a keyboard), which is then sent through the Editor, and then on to the DAW MIDI track.

Option 2 (preferred method)

However, it is recommended that you use a separate MIDI Keyboard Controller to input MIDI Note data into the DAW Host MIDI track. You can setup this MIDI Device inside the DAW's MIDI Setup, and assign it to the MIDI In on track the Editor plug-in is using.

 

 

Using Virtual MIDI Devices with the Applications

While using the VST-AU Editor in the DAW using the normal connection methods works fine for basic functionality like previewing Programs. It may not be sufficient enough for sample accurate MIDI Note synchronization between the DAW MIDI system and the Editors MIDI system. If the timing of your sequenced Note data is not sufficient when using the Editor with your DAW try using a Virtual MIDI Device to send the DAW's Note data directly to the Synthesizer (preferably on a separate MIDI track than the Editor plug-in, for better control). Parameter Automation data can still then be sent up to the Editor and out from the Editor on to the hardware Synthesizer.

 

For Windows users, you can use a Virtual MIDI Device (LoopMIDI, etc.) to use your MIDI ports with more than one application at a time. The VST-AU Editor's MIDI Setup will be able to see your Virtual MIDI Devices in the MIDI Setup MIDI Port list, just as it would any normal MIDI port. You will need to refer to your DAW's user manual and the Virtual MIDI Device user manual for specifics on how they work, but they typically work by allowing you to share a single physical MIDI port with multiple virtual MIDI ports/applications. You then connect to the virtual ports in your applications and route the physical MIDI port assigned to the virtual port to the hardware Synthesizer.

 

For Mac users, Virtual MIDI Devices are handled by the IAC Driver (in the Audio MIDI Setupapplication). You can setup your MIDI routings there to use more than one application with a single MIDI port. Refer to the Apple documentation for details on CoreMIDI and the IAC Driver.

 

Here's how to set it all up. In this example, the following tools were used. (Other tools may work in a similar way):

  • Any reKon audio VST-AU Editor product.
  • Windows (with a MOTU MIDI Express XT using port 8 to connect to the Synth MIDI In and Out)
  • MIDI-Ox (a free MIDI Routing App)
  • LoopMIDI offers 32bit and 64 bit Windows versions.
  • Cubase (DAW host).

 

  1. Open the DAW host. In the DAW host MIDI setup (typically found under 'Preferences') disable the port that you are using to connect the Synth to the Editor. (ex. port 8).
  2. Start the Virtual MIDI Cable application and create a Virtual MIDI port (if not already created). Make sure the VMC is installed and working properly first!
  3. Using a MIDI Routing app (MIDI-Ox for Windows, it's free. Use 'Audio MIDI Setup' app on Mac, also free). Open MIDI-Ox and make the following connections:
  • Open the 'Options/MIDI Devices' view and make sure you have selected the MIDI Out port you are using to connect to the Synth (ex. port 8).
  • Open the 'MIDI Port Routing' view and disconnect all cables first. Then connect the 'LoopBe MIDI Input' port to the MIDI port going to the Synth (ex. port 8 Output).
  • Also connect the 'LoopBe MIDI Output' port to the 'MIDI-OX Event Port'.
  • Also connect the 'MIDI-OX Event Port' to the port connected to the Synth (ex. port 8).
  • Load the VST-AU Editor plug-in. (see your host documentation for using soft-Synthesizer plug-ins).
  • Open the 'MIDI Setup' view in the VST-AU Editor.
  • Set the 'Editor MIDI In' and 'Editor MIDI Out' ports and channels to that connected to the Synth (ex. port 8).
  • In the DAW host, select the track that was created for the plug-in.

Note that you do not need (or want, in this case) to connect the MIDI tracks I/O's to any MIDI Inputs or Outputs, or to the Editor. Instead, you can use this track to send Note On/Off, Pitch, Modulation wheel, etc. data straight to the Synth by doing the following:

  1.  Set the track's MIDI Input to a MIDI Controller Keyboard.
  2.  Set the track's MIDI Output to the 'LoopMIDI Internal MIDI' port. This will send the Note On/Off, Pitch, Modulation wheel data to the Synth directly from your Host sequencer track instead of through the Editor.
  3. In this arrangement, the Editor has direct access to the Synth AND the DAW Host sequencer also has direct access to the Synth without any MIDI port conflicts.
  4. Your music should now be in sync with the DAW host and still have Parameter Automation control through the DAW. The Editor also has direct communication with the Synth.

 

 

Tips On DAW Parameter Automation

  • Always reduce the number of automation points as much as possible.
  • Do not automate more than 10 parameters at any given time.
  • Consider the age and quality of the processing hardware in your Synthesizer and USB MIDI devices.

The Editor translates all Parameter changes into MIDI messages that get sent to the Synthesizer. Since Automation is a concept typically reserved for 'soft-synth' plug-ins that do not send MIDI messages, it has a much faster rate and buffer bandwidth than most hardware Synthesizers do, especially older Synthesizers.

 

This can sometimes cause issues when using the Editor with older model Synthesizers, or even newer ones that have poor quality built-in USB MIDI ports. The timing, density, and processing requirements of Automation data may vary between DAWs. Further complicating things, is the variation of processor bandwidth, and MIDI buffer capabilities between hardware Synthesizers, and even with MIDI Devices used in the MIDI data path.

 

Another consideration is the technology and age of the hardware in the Synthesizer. Many older Synthesizers (pre 2000) may have buffers that are easily overrun and cause the Synthesizer to reset, reboot, or flash strange gibberish when it has received too much data at too fast a rate.

 

If you are having buffer overruns, resets, or other issues with either your Synthesizer, MIDI Device, or Editor crashing while playing DAW Automation data through the Editor, then you may need to reduce the number of Automation data points in your track until you achieve satisfactory results. It is also recommended that you not automate more than 10 Parameters at any given time to ensure best performance.

 

 

Getting Additional Support

If you have read through this document, the User Manual and the Global User Manual, and are still having issues using the software, then support is available through our Contact Us page.

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