MIDI patch commands with Xpand

[DonaldM]

Is there a way to make patch changes in Xpand using patch change commands in a MIDI track? It isn't readily apparent if that's even possible with Xpand. Also, since you can have up to 4 patches playing simultaneously on Xpand, can they be changed individually or not? If this is possible, I'm just not seeing it in Xpand.

Thanks

[spkguitar]

No.

[DonaldM]

I had a feeling that would be the answer!
Do you know if that's true for other RTAS synths like structure, hybrid or even Reason?

[spkguitar]

Typically, Yes.

Just curious; why do you need to change patches? Why not just add a new instance of the plugin with the new patch and play it on a different track? The only reason I can think of to use patch changes in Pro Tools is if you are playing live, something that Pro Tools really isn't suited for in the first place.

Now XPand has the capability of turning parts on and off, so technically voice changes are possible if you only need one voice part and are creative with the on/off automation.

[DonaldM]

I didn't see this response until just now. To answer your question, I had envisioned experimenting with creating a sort of evolving sound that would have required making some patch changes within Xpand. Sure, it could be done on multiple tracks using multiple instantiations of Xpand, but it would be easier to do it on one track using program changes. But you're right, I might be able to achieve the same result using the on/off function. I hadn't thought of that.

Mainly, I just wanted to experiment with an idea.

Thanks

[DonaldM]

I didn't see this response until just now. To answer your question, I had envisioned experimenting with creating a sort of evolving sound that would have required making some patch changes within Xpand. Sure, it could be done on multiple tracks using multiple instantiations of Xpand, but it would be easier to do it on one track using program changes. But you're right, I might be able to achieve the same result using the on/off function. I hadn't thought of that.

Mainly, I just wanted to experiment with an idea.

Thanks