[rec.music.synth] IBM AT MIDI SOFTWARE and HARDWARE - a ?

canderso@nyx.UUCP (Chuck Anderson) (01/06/90)

     I would like some help please. I am buying an IBM AT clone this week and
plan to use it as a midi "controller", sequencer. I plan to use existing
software, but desire to write some of my own as well. I have a Korg DSS-1 and
I've always hated the interface. My first project will be to remedy that.
My second project will be to replace my MC500 capabilities so I can sell my
MC500.

Now, The question. Does anyone have advice on which midi interface card to
get? Are there big differences? Can you point me to a summary or comparison
of various cards? I don't really need a full blown compositional interface
right away. Are there any cheap and basic sequencers? (Cheap is the operative 
word here.) I can barely afford the PC, but the midi capability is a necessary
first step. It's half the reason I want a PC.

Thanks in advance for any and all help. I'm new on this system and have had
trouble getting email to go anywhere. My apologies in advance if you get
frustrated trying to reach me.

Chuck Anderson

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brothers@jetsun.WEITEK.COM (bill brothers) (01/09/90)

Recently, you asked for help with interfaces for the IBM and
programming the DSS-1:


I have an original MPU-401 with an IPC interface. I have also
used several of the MPU-401 interfaces on the market. I would
suggest any of the MPU-401 compatible interfaces. My personal
preference would be the voyetra v-4000. This is because it is
a good low-cost interface that allows changing of the interrupt
and address. Typical price $120-140 US. I would suggest that
you stick with MPU-401 compatible interfaces. Almost all of the
software on the IBM is written for the 401. When you finally
get your interface and start programming, give me a shout. I
have done some stuff with the DSS-1 that might help you get started.


Bill Brothers
ISV Support Specialist
brothers@weitek.COM
{sun, pyramid}!weitek.COM!brothers

donehoo@olivee.olivetti.com (Doyle W. Donehoo) (01/09/90)

In article <855@jetsun.WEITEK.COM> brothers@weitek.COM (bill brothers) writes:
>Recently, you asked for help with interfaces for the IBM and
>programming the DSS-1:

There is also a program for the MPU401/IBM called DSS1 Total
Control or something. Look at back issues of Keyboard.
Works somewhat reliably.

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