Best solution for a MIDI Controller w/ Pro Tools 8 LE & Mbox 2

[arb232]

Hello all,

Thinking about getting a MIDI controller to use with my Mbox 2 Mini and I have been watching Youtube videos about Pro Tools 8 and MIDI and people say that you need to go from your MIDI out to your MIDI in on your Mbox.

Now, the Mbox 2 Mini doesn't have any MIDI ins, so what is the best way to go about connecting a keyboard or an MPD to what I am working with. I am on Mac OSX 10.6

Thanks,
Andrew

[albee1952]

You can get a controller with a USB connection, or get a simple USB-midi interface like the M-Audio UNO. As for the actual keyboard, you have tons of options at all price points. Since I was unhappy with the action on must sub-$400 controllers, I picked up a used Ensoniq Mirage for $50. Its dirt simple(no frills other than pitch&mod wheels), but the keybed feels better than most cheapo controllers. I feed mine thru a MOTU Fastlane USB(2x2).

[arb232]

Hey albee1952, thanks for the reply!

How would I go from the Mbox 2 to the M-Audio UNO?

Thanks for your keyboard suggestions also

[filosofem]

Axiom Pro it has a built-in MIDI Interface. Simply plug and play (USB).

[arb232]

filsofem,

I was thinking about the MPK25 but the Axiom Pro looks dope..

[arb232]

A lot of the videos I watched on Youtube recommend using the MIDI ins and outs. How come? What do you think I should do having no MIDI In's on the Mbox Mini

[filosofem]

Originally Posted by arb232

I was thinking about the MPK25 but the Axiom Pro looks dope..

Yeah! Axiom Pro gives you MIDI Controller and Control Surface in one device. Controlling VI's and then Plug-Ins from right in front of you hasn't been any better.

[filosofem]

Originally Posted by arb232

A lot of the videos I watched on Youtube recommend using the MIDI ins and outs. How come? What do you think I should do having no MIDI In's on the Mbox Mini

Don't believe everything you watch on you tube. USB MIDI passes the same communication protocol as DIN MIDI. Secondly once you have USB MIDI in place you can then DIN MIDI to another MIDI device.

[albee1952]

Yup. As said, a controller with a USB connection simply plugins into another USB port on the computer. Install the software that comes with the keyboard, go into PT and hit Setup>Midi>Midi Studio and create a device(your controller). Select a brand and model(totally optional and not required, so don't worry if you can't find your controller on the lists). Select the midi input(likely "controller name on USB" and select the channels you want it to use. For using only 1 controller, you can leave all 16 midi channels lit.

[filosofem]

Originally Posted by albee1952

Yup. As said, a controller with a USB connection simply plugins into another USB port on the computer. Install the software that comes with the keyboard

Only the above is required Dave. There is no need to setup MSS. MSS is more for DIN MIDI devices that run via a multi-port MIDI interface and each port needs identifying. When installing a device driver for a USB MIDI device, device listing is done by default.