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Audio to MIDI realtime converter?

Dave71

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Staff member
I got two Roland drum pads from a friend. But I don't have a module to attach the triggers to in order to get a MIDI note that I can use to play an instrument. So the question is: Is there a way to convert the trigger signal to a MIDI note in realtime? Maybe a plugin or something? And if there isn't, what is a cheap hardware option if I only need the MIDI, no need for any audio?

I now found the option to use the stock gate plugin to send a chosen note number, which I did not know and think is really great! However, this does not account for velocity, so it' s not an option to how I would like to use it. But... maybe it actually does work if I get creative with it... Still open to suggestions but I may be back with a truly usable solution with no external devices or plugins needed
 
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There definately is in one form or another.
For example, my guitar to MIDI converter from Jam Origin is a real time pitch to MIDI converter. I've even used it that way with extracting pitch to MIDI without guitar. All through its software plugin. That goes for about a C note, and you could use it on different things including guitars.

Only, I suspect there is something more towards your drum needs. You don't need the actual pitch info that Jam Origin provides.

Where the problem might be is the trigger signal and how it comes off of the pads themselves. I suspect you could likely purchase even a used controller from Roland or other manufacturer that senses and properly connects off of those pads. That way, you'd receive the individual triggers.

Try looking at a used Roland module off Ebay, I'd guess. It would likely go for little monies.
 
Much appreciated! And I may end up going that route for the sake of ease of use and flexibility!
 
Someone here mentioned MidiPipe as a way to send / transform all Midi data inside of my OS and it is an INCREDIBLE program. It collects and modifies data before it gets to Studio One. I also use it to translate different data to different destinations. It's a fantastic free program.
 
Someone here mentioned MidiPipe as a way to send / transform all Midi data inside of my OS and it is an INCREDIBLE program. It collects and modifies data before it gets to Studio One. I also use it to translate different data to different destinations. It's a fantastic free program.
That looks like a seriously cool tool! So happy I have a Mac now as well so these types of tools are available for me. So far it does seem to be only to transform MIDI data into other MIDI data, while I want to convert trigger inputs into MIDI. But maybe it's part of the solution if I can get thr trigger information teranslated to any type of MIDI data and then have it transformed by MIDIPipe. If I am mistaken in my assumption I am of course open to more explanation! Thanks!
 
I built a cajon a couple of years ago and "midified" it using piezo's and one of these (current price is $179). Has 10 trigger inputs and hihat control (I just use 3 inputs for piezo's on my cajon). Took a bit to set up to get the sensitivity right (for the application 🙂) but very happy with it. I just saw Sweetwater has it for $159 right now.

 
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Another alternative is the Audiofront eDrumin interface if your intent is to drive MIDI instruments. No sounds, but very good control over pad response. They come in 4, 8 and 10 input versions.


Lots of great info can be found at vdrums.com forum.
 
Hey Dave, if you opt for getting a simple unit that goes from the connections out of your Roland drum pads, you can find something like a Roland TD01 brain, and they run around $75 to $120 used. That will likely be better than some software signal converter. Especially where sensitivity or 16th notes or faster could be reliably sensed. It seems to me piezo sensors seem to defeat the purpose of a pad already having a sensor in it already. You simply need to detect the signal to MIDI. and at least be a little reliable. : )

Perhaps the Roland sensors work on other units as well. I just dont know. I'm trying to think of a low cost solution, because quite honestly, over $200 and you could be buying a whole unit or mixed drum pads all ready to go.
Here's a TD01 which can be found through Reverb, or Ebay.

1738202263919.jpeg

Definately, do the research though before buying so you know your pads will work.
You'll love the expressive side of using drum pads 👍
 
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Hey Dave, if you opt for getting a simple unit that goes from the connections out of your Roland drum pads, you can find something like a Roland TD01 brain, and they run around $75 to $120 used. That will likely be better than some software signal converter. Especially where sensitivity or 16th notes or faster could be reliably sensed. It seems to me piezo sensors seem to defeat the purpose of a pad already having a sensor in it already. You simply need to detect the signal to MIDI. and at least be a little reliable. : )

Perhaps the Roland sensors work on other units as well. I just dont know. I'm trying to think of a low cost solution, because quite honestly, over $200 and you could be buying a whole unit or mixed drum pads all ready to go.
Here's a TD01 which can be found through Reverb, or Ebay.

View attachment 374

Definately, do the research though before buying so you know your pads will work.
You'll love the expressive side of using drum pads 👍
You bring up good points!
 
I'm hoping you find an easy and reliable way to use those pads. So I hope I'm somewhere in the ballpark.

One of my best investments ever with musical equipment (besides a number of guitars) that never diminished in value is my Roland Octapad II Pad-80. They can still be had, but are largely beat up now, being so old. I got mine around 1988, and it's so ridiculously functional. I can step through pads and controls using my old Alesis D4 drum module, or even better now, software based instruments. The thing is age-proof. Lol.

So yeah, it would be slick to get a few of your pads operational. Then bag a set of drum sticks at a local music shop. With sticks, the sky is the limit. Also cool is to pat on the pads as in playing bongos, conga's, tabla, or a cajun. I know, I'm just amping up the excitement just a bit.
; )
Let us know how you make out with any developments.

Ah, I just saw the mention of the Audiofront E-Drumin. Sure, that looks good as well.
 
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I now found the option to use the stock gate plugin to send a chosen note number, which I did not know and think is really great! However, this does not account for velocity, so it' s not an option to how I would like to use it. But... maybe it actually does work if I get creative with it... Still open to suggestions but I may be back with a truly usable solution with no external devices or plugins needed
Maybe try Slate Trigger ... it has a low latency live mode and you can load up samples and even create your own sample libs.
 
Maybe try Slate Trigger ... it has a low latency live mode and you can load up samples and even create your own sample libs.
I tried that, and it does work. But the thing lokeyfly brings up about the fast notes is an issue, so I think I will just need to get something that translates the trigger signal correctly.
 
Hey Dave,
Sorry but these thoughts come in like drips out of a faucet. : )
If you had thoughts of ever getting more pads, as I don't know your ideas on perhaps expanding your percussive needs in the future. Instead of getting a dedicated module like the Edrummin, or drum brain like a Roland TD01, You might spend equal or slightly more on an actual drum pads unit that accepts the trigger inputs in the back. That might give you six to eight additional pads for little more shell-out. My old Roland Octapad II even has 6 internal trigger ins, plus Mod/Bend and hold switches (all 1/4" Phone jacks). That along with MIDI In, Out, and Thru connections. So, with even a simple pedal to switch and act like opening a hihat is doable.
That might be more than you're looking for, but if recommending something is worth anything, it would be a shame to not consider limits. Understood also if you're just looking to groove with a simple interface as you originally pointed out. Still, these added goodies are seriously available.and worth keeping your antenna out for them.

● Any unit you opt for, particularly older ones, make sure it has a USB connection or you'll have to go through MIDI to something like your audio interface MIDI in. Just saying. This is the case with my older Octapad.

...Just this pass Christmas, I was going to buy a new Simmons Titan 70 drum kit. Then I thought, you dope (always tough on myself), you have the Octapad. Just get a new plugin transformer which I was too lazy to weed out the original one in the basement. It ended up costing me $25 bucks. Sometimes, I have to suggest to myself, some thoughts on efficiency. 😃
 
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