Music Lesson: Connecting Hardware Synthesizers and MIDI Controllers

In this first video, we're going to take a hardware synthesizer and use some external MIDI controllers to augment its capabilities. Let's have a look at the equipment we're going to use.

Equipment Overview

Korg Micro Korg

• A classic synthesizer that is fun and straightforward to use.
• Note: Being an older model, it lacks USB connectivity. We will use traditional MIDI cables for input and output.

Novation Launch Control XL

• A versatile and affordable MIDI controller, perfect for this task and many others.

Korg Chaos Pad 3

• An external effects processor that adds creative possibilities.
• A well-used unit that features both MIDI and USB connectivity, allowing us to transmit MIDI via USB, reducing cable clutter.

Setting Up the Equipment

Step 1: Connect the Micro Korg

1. Audio Connection:
   • Use standard jack leads to connect the main outputs (left and right) of the Micro Korg to inputs 1 and 2 on the TC Electronic Connect Live audio interface.
2. Power Connection:
   • Plug in the power supply and check that it's working (power is on).
3. MIDI Connection:
   • Connect one MIDI cable from the MIDI out port on the TC to the MIDI in on the Micro Korg.
   • Connect a second MIDI cable from the MIDI in on the TC to the MIDI output on the Micro Korg.

Step 2: Connect the Novation Launch Control XL

• Use a standard USB cable to connect the Novation Launch Control XL to our USB hub.

Step 3: Connect the Korg Chaos Pad 3

1. Power Connection:
   • Plug in the power supply and ensure it's working.
2. USB MIDI Connection:
   • Connect the USB from the Chaos Pad to the USB hub. This will allow MIDI to be transmitted in and out with just one cable.
3. Audio Connection:
   • Utilize RCA to jack cables to connect:
     • Outputs 3 and 4 from the TC Electronic Connect Live to the line in of the Chaos Pad.
     • Line out from the Chaos Pad back to line in 3 and 4 of the TC.

Summary of Connections

• Micro Korg:
  • Audio in/out, MIDI in/out, power.
• Korg Chaos Pad 3:
  • Audio in/out and MIDI via USB.
• Novation Launch Control XL:
  • Connected via USB to the hub.

Now that we have our equipment connected, let's explore what we need to do inside Ableton Live to get everything communicating properly.