A way to have MIDI from a synth, be sent to a track which routes out to that synth (so the user can record automation from the synth panel). The user would also be able to simultaneously record keyboard input from the controller; while being able to interact with other devices that send CC, without those being sent to or recorded on the current track (e.g tweaking a parameter on an external effect unit).
This feature request suggests a concept of a “master controller” that is routed to the currently selected track, in addition to whatever MIDI source is selected as the track’s input. An alternative would be to allow the selection of multiple inputs for a single track, ideally with a monitor mode for each. In that sense the synth you are routing to could be “always monitor” and the master controller could be “auto monitor”.
What problem(s) would this feature resolve?
This would allow more fluid integration of controllers and synths when being played simultaneously.
Controllers (meaning MIDI input devices) are all treated as equal. A given track can receive midi input from a single source, or from all sources. In the case of the latter, this means MIDI from any device interacted with will be received (whether or not that track is sending to the corresponding hardware device). This can result in sending of CC from one device to another device, and cause other complications.
How does this feature fit in Bitwig as a product?
This would enhance the modular aspects of Bitwig by enabling more flexible and more complex MIDI routing from multiple instruments and controllers simultaneously.
Is there already an alternative way to achieve this on Bitwig?
Having each piece of hardware on its own MIDI channel would mean the inputs could be filtered by channel. The problem here is that you may have to change the controller to a different channel if you move to a different track in Bitwig (or readjust the filters). A more complete, though somewhat complex, workaround is as follows:
- Make an Instrument Track for each hardware device with each device as the track’s MIDI input
- On the track you want to control, add a Note Receiver for each MIDI device you want to use and set their inputs to the corresponding tracks created in step 1
- Group these note receivers into a Note FX Layer
Optional:
- Group all of the Instrument Tracks so they take up less space
Could it be implemented using Bitwig components or APIs, without Bitwig team’s support?
No.
Could it be provided by a VST or something else reasonably integrated with Bitwig?
No
Are there other products that offer this feature?
The MPC MIDI implementation allows nomination of one or more devices as master controllers which apply to the selected track, irrespective of the destination midi routing.
Relevant links (optional)
Akai Pro MPC X, MPC Live & MPC One: Configuring MIDI Ports for Multi-MIDI Control