User Manual

K-MIX HARDWARE
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4.3 – MIDI & K-MIX
In addition to functioning as both a mixer and audio interface, K-Mix speaks MIDI. K-Mix allows for bi-
directional MIDI communication with USB host devices (computer, tablet), and with external MIDI hardware
(via the optional KMI MIDI Expander). K-Mix is fully capable of both outputting MIDI to control other devices/
software, and receiving MIDI for control of its own parameters.
This section details what you need to know for successful MIDI communication with K-Mix.
4.3.1 – MIDI PORTS
When a K-Mix is connected to a computer, three virtual MIDI “ports” (or “busses”) are created — Port 1:
K-Mix Audio Control, Port 2: K-Mix Expander, and Port 3: K-Mix Control Surface. They are the “portal” to
communicating with the connected K-Mix via MIDI; they allow for bi-directional MIDI communication
between the computer and the K-Mix (and MIDI Expander if one is connected), and should appear in any
MIDI-capable application.
Understanding what each port is for and how they work is crucial for mastering MIDI communication with
K-Mix.
The functionality of each port will be discussed in the following sections; here is a quick summary of what
they are for:
• K-Mix Audio Control = MIDI control of Mix bank and audio functions
• K-Mix Expander = MIDI Expander In/Out
• K-Mix Control Surface = MIDI banks In/Out
4.3.1.1 – PORT 1: K-MIX AUDIO CONTROL
The K-Mix Audio Control port is used for controlling K-Mix’s Mix bank parameters via MIDI.
• Sending MIDI to this port from a connected computer will allow you to control things like channel
EQ settings, Compressor settings, fader levels, panning, etc. This allows you to automate your
K-Mix from a DAW or other MIDI-capable software.
4.3.1.2 – PORT 2: K-MIX EXPANDER
The K-Mix Expander port is used exclusively for receiving MIDI from and sending MIDI to a connected
MIDI Expander.
• Any MIDI sent from an external device to the Expander’s MIDI In jack will enter the computer via
this port.
• Any MIDI sent from the computer to this port will be sent out of the Expander’s MIDI Out jack.
K-Mix does not report back its Mix bank parameters via MIDI over the K-Mix Audio
Control port; it can only receive over this port.