MIDI problem with GarageBand

Question

cobbler1975 Author

Level 1

8 points

MIDI problem with GarageBand

I am trying to control GarageBand with an old 80s Keyboard (Roland JX1) via a USB midi interface into my new generation MacBook Air with Mountain Lion (although the following problem happened on an older MacBook Pro too). I can get the GarageBand voices to play using this keyboard, but the problem is they don't cut off. AND it seems that they only play monophonically (i.e. can't do chords). Any ideas on what I can do?

I also have a Yamaha TG-100 module that I hook up to the JX-1 and wanted to know whether it was worth getting Logic Pro 9 to control them.

MacBook Air, OS X Mountain Lion (10.8.2)

Posted on Sep 28, 2012 4:20 AM

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Answer 1

Sep 28, 2012 10:35 AM in response to cobbler1975

Maybe it is not GarageBand that is having the MIDI problem. Maybe this is what the Roland is sending. MIDI message is missing the note of command and maybe it is only sending mono signals. Try using a MIDI utilities app to check what MIDI message is coming out of the ROland keyboard.

Edgar Rothermich

DingDingMusic.com/Manuals

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Answer 2

cobbler1975 Author

Level 1

8 points

Oct 3, 2012 9:58 AM in response to EdgarRothermich

Thanks. Do you have any recommendations for a MIDI utilities app?

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Answer 3

Oct 3, 2012 1:58 PM in response to cobbler1975

One simlple app for troubleshooting MIDI on your computer is the free "MIDI Monitor" utility.

Edgar Rothermich

DingDingMusic.com/Manuals

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Answer 4

gjmnz

Level 3

858 points

Oct 4, 2012 12:19 PM in response to cobbler1975

Just checking that you have tried a variety of sounds within GB as some of them a monophonic and some polyphonic. Also, you can play ployphonic sounds from the JX1 and the TG-100 via a MIDI cable just fine? If so, have you tried another type/brand of MIDI interface with your computer? What about a different MIDI keyboard using the same setup... just some trouble shooting ideas. 🙂

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