williamm@tramp.Colorado.EDU (WILLIAMS MICHAEL SCOTT) (01/29/88)
In response to a few questions regarding MIDI for the apple//,
I thought that let you know what I am presently using. Through
Computer Parts Galore I purchased a blank PC board for a 6850 based MIDI.
They also had software and documentation for the MIDI for an additional
fee, in which I decided to invest. If you have never built/populated
a PC board, it is a fairly simple task for a weekend afternoon (ones
this size, that is)
The board works fine for what I am using at this moment, which is
the given software. The software, however, is somewhat primitive,
provided to give the user a feel for the MIDI, and knowledge that the
board works fine; it can only record/play 1 track and does not have
any editing features, etc. I felt that it *was* a good idea to get
the documentation, though, for it gave an introductory feel for the
whole setup (including schematics).
I am in the process of writing my own software for it, which will
include a 16-track sequencer and whatever else I can put to use. The only
thing slowing me down is getting a full understanding of the 6840 timer
used on board, such that I can use it on machines without synch-pulses
(I have access to both types, my own being without). I think I have that
down and will work on the program this weekend.
As far as other software goes, I have been reluctant to actually purchase
any due to the reason that I am not sure of the compatibility of my MIDI card
to those which are presently on the market. If anybody knows of a standard,
and if a 6840/6850-based sounds like it, please let me know - also about
any existing software.
Cost information:
6850 Midi card was $15, software + documentation $19.00
Various parts used in populating the board ran about $20-25
(also, a modification had to be made to an opto-coupler to make it
equivelant to that recommended for the board)
And can be obtained from:
Computer Parts Galore
OR NuScope Associates
NuScope Associates actually carry a larger selection of PCBoards, including
a newer "Super MIDI", and is who presently order from, for long-term support.
DISCLAIMER: I have no association with either CPG or NuScope, except as
a customer and a very satisfied customer, respectively, and am just
passing along what I feel to be relevant information.
BTW, if anybody would like the MIDI board, but doesn't feel like building
one, -and/or- would like (or have ideas for) the software, E-Mail me.
- Remo
BIT: WILLIAMS@COLORADO.EDU
SNAIL: 2905 E Aurora Ave #129, Boulder CO 80303gwyn@brl-smoke.ARPA (Doug Gwyn ) (01/30/88)
In case you didn't happen to notice, Apple just announced a MIDI interface. I think it costs $99 and lives outboard, but I haven't seen it yet so I'm not sure. Your dealer should have the info.