MIDI uses "Controllers" to modify the sound of instruments. Controllers act on a channel basis so all notes on the same channel would be affected. Detailed explanations of these Controllers can be found in any MIDI text book or here.
Index |
Meaning |
0 |
Bank - only bank zero is supported so do not change this controller. The other banks are reserved for test instruments. |
1 |
Modulation - controls the amount of LFO modulation applied to the instrument. |
6 |
Data Entry - used with RPN. |
7 |
Volume - controls the loudness of the notes. |
10 |
Pan - 0 is hard left, 64 is center, 127 is hard right. This effect will not be heard on a monophonic speaker common in telephones. |
11 |
Expression - provides dynamic expressive control over the notes. This is generally tied to loudness and is an alternative to the Volume controller which is usually used for more slowly changing mixer control. |
64 |
Sustain - pedal control that blocks the NoteOff commands until released. This makes notes sound for a longer time. |
100 |
RPN LSB - Registered Parameter Number, Least Significant Byte. Used with DataEntry Controller to access extended controllers. See below... |
101 |
RPN MSB - Registered Parameter Number, Most Significant Byte |
120 |
All Sound Off - immediately stops all sound. Not generally used in a song. |
123 |
All Notes Off - used to turn off all notes in case some are stuck because a cable was unplugged or a NoteOff command was missing. |
