Working with MIDI Channel Strips in the Mixer

This section deals with the MIDI channel strips of the Mixer, as well as those of the GM Mixer (see GM Mixer Objects).

The MIDI channel strips work as remote controls for the mixing parameters of your MIDI-controlled sound modules and synthesizers, such as volume and pan.

Note: The controls send MIDI control change messages. They do not control any audio signal flow within Logic Pro.

Open the View menu in the Mixer and choose MIDI Channel Strip Components, then choose all of the items that appear in the submenu—Instrument Name, Program, Bank, Assign 1 to 5—so you will be able to see all of the parameters described below. The basic channel strip Level, Pan, and Mute controls are always shown on MIDI channel strips.

Figure. MIDI channel strips with all channel strip components.

Adjusting Elements of MIDI Channel Strips

This section looks at how to adjust the volume level and pan position on MIDI channel strips, as well as how to control MIDI data transmission and assign controller data.

Note: Option-clicking a fader or knob resets the value to its default value. The default value is 0 for all controls, with the exception of Volume (Controller #7), which has a default value of 100.

The Volume fader controls the output volume level of a MIDI channel strip. Adjusting it sends controller #7 via your MIDI interface.

To adjust the volume of a MIDI channel strip
  • Drag the Volume fader up or down.

The Pan control allows you to directly control the pan position of the sound. Controller #10 is sent via your MIDI interface.

To control the pan position of a sound
  • Drag the Pan control vertically or horizontally.

    The knob moves according to the mouse position.

The Mute button controls the sending of MIDI data from the corresponding external MIDI channel strip. When the Mute button is turned on, the external MIDI channel strip stops sending MIDI data.

To stop or start the sending of MIDI data from the external MIDI channel strip
  • Click the Mute button.

You can use each of the Assign 1 to 5 knobs to send MIDI controller data to the external MIDI instrument, allowing you to remotely control parameters such as volume, balance, pan, and chorus.

To assign a controller to one of the knobs
  1. Click the label above the knob.

    Figure. MIDI channel strip showing controller assignment on knob.
  2. Choose a controller from the menu.

Saving and Restoring MIDI Channel Strip Settings

MIDI channel strip settings in the Mixer directly affect the Track Parameter box in the Arrange window’s inspector. The current settings of all channel strips are saved with the project.

If the active settings of your sound module are not maintained when you switch it off (some devices reset to default values), any Logic Pro Mixer settings that affect the unit will be lost. Fortunately, Logic Pro Mixer settings are automatically restored and transmitted to all MIDI devices when you reload the project.

On occasion, however, this may not happen, due to MIDI communication issues with some devices. In this situation, you can manually resend the Logic Pro MIDI channel strip settings by choosing Options > Send All MIDI Mixer Data.

Using Extended GM:  GS and XG Functions in the Mixer

In addition to the General MIDI (GM) standard, GS and XG formats are extended standards created by Roland and Yamaha respectively.

GS and XG modes allow you to select different effect programs and to control the level of the reverb and chorus effects.

To display the GS or XG effects
  • Open the Mixer’s View menu and choose Add GS/XG Effects.

    The GS/XG configuration control is displayed on the right of the Mixer, allowing you to select different effect programs.

    Figure. Mixer area with GS/XG configuration control.
To configure GS or XG effects
  1. Choose a standard from the pop-up menu.

    Depending on your selection, other pop-up menus and fields for the extended effects appear.

  2. Select a reverb or chorus effect from the second pop-up menu.

  3. Drag the Time field vertically to set the reverb or delay time.