Chapter 5 Appendices

MIDI Implementation

Model: GI-20

Date:

Dec. 28, 2002

Version: 1.00

1. USB

When MIDI PLAYBACK is OFF, identical messages are transmitted from USB and MIDI. When MIDI PLAYBACK is ON, messages transmitted from the computer to the GI-20’s USB are sent through to MIDI OUT.

Refer to “Signal Flow” (p. 8).

2. Receive Data (MIDI IN)

Channel Voice Messages

Can be received only through the Control Channel.

However, these are received through all channels when the Control Channel is set to Omni On.

Control Change

Control Changes (1–95) other than those for Bank Select, Data Entry, and general purpose controllers 3–8 are transmitted with their channels converted as follows:

In MONO mode:

changed to the six channels starting with the basic channel

In POLY mode:

changed to the basic channel only

For more on the functions of each Control Change, refer to the data sheet for the sound module being used.

General purpose controllers 3–8 are imported to the GI-20 and controls assigned function of on-board controllers.

General Purpose Controller 3

Status

2nd byte

3rd byte

BnH

12H

vvH

n=MIDI channel number:

0H - FH (0 - 15) 0=ch.1 15=ch.16

vv= Control value:

 

00H - 7FH (0-127)

*Can be received only through the Control Channel.

*Recognized as control data for the expression pedal connected to the GI-20.

*Does not convert to basic channel for transmission.

General Purpose Controller 4

Status

2nd byte

3rd byte

 

BnH

13H

vvH

 

n=MIDI channel number:

0H - FH (0 - 15)

0=ch.1 15=ch.16

vv= Control value:

 

00H - 7FH (0-127)

00H-3FH=OFF, 40H-7FH=ON

*Can be received only through the Control Channel.

*Recognized as control data for the Soft Switch 1 connected to the GI-20.

*Does not convert to basic channel for transmission.

General Purpose Controller 5

Status

2nd byte

3rd byte

BnH

50H

vvH

n=MIDI channel number:

0H - FH (0 - 15) 0=ch.1 15=ch.16

vv= Control value:

 

00H - 7FH (0 - 127) 00H - 3FH=OFF, 40H-7FH=ON

General Purpose Controller 6

Status

2nd byte

3rd byte

BnH

51H

vvH

n=MIDI channel number:

0H - FH (0 - 15) 0=ch.1 15=ch.16

vv= Control value:

 

00H - 7FH (0 - 127)

*Can be received only through the Control Channel.

*Recognized as GK Volume control data.

*Does not convert to basic channel for transmission.

General Purpose Controller 7

Status

2nd byte

3rd byte

BnH

52H

vvH

n=MIDI channel number:

0H - FH (0 - 15) 0=ch.1 15=ch.16

vv= Control value:

 

00H - 7FH (0 - 127) 00H-3FH=OFF,40H-7FH=ON

*Can be received only through the Control Channel.

*Recognized as S1 Switch 1 control data.

*Does not convert to basic channel for transmission.

General Purpose Controller 8

Status

2nd byte

3rd byte

BnH

53H

vvH

n=MIDI channel number:

0H - FH (0 - 15) 0=ch.1 15=ch.16

vv= Control value:

 

00H - 7FH (0 - 127) 00H-3FH=OFF, 40H - 7FH=ON

*Can be received only through the Control Channel.

*Recognized as S2 Switch 1 control data.

*Does not convert to basic channel for transmission.

Program Change

Status

2nd byte

 

CnH

ppH

 

n=MIDI channel number:

0H - FH (0 - 15) 0=ch.1 15=ch.16

pp= Program number :

00H - 31H (0 - 49)

*Can be received only through the Control Channel.

*The patch corresponding to the Program number that’s been received is called up.

System Exclusive Message

Status

data byte

Status

F0H

iiH,ddH,.....,eeH

F7H

F0H:

System Exclusive

 

ii=ID number:

41H (65)

 

dd,...,ee= Data:

00H-7FH (0-127)

 

F7H:

EOX (End of Exclusive/System common)

*For more details, refer to the page “Roland exclusive message” and Section 4 or after.

*Can be received only through the Control Channel.

*Recognized as control data for the Soft Switch 2 connected to the GI-20.

*Does not convert to basic channel for transmission.

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Roland GI-20 Midi Implementation, Channel Voice Messages, System Exclusive Message, Control Change, Program Change

GI-20 specifications

The Roland GI-20 is a groundbreaking MIDI guitar converter that allows electric guitarists to explore the vast world of MIDI technology. Designed to bridge the gap between traditional guitar playing and digital music production, the GI-20 transforms standard guitar signals into MIDI data, giving players access to a wide array of synthesized sounds and virtual instruments.

One of the main features of the GI-20 is its ability to track the guitar’s pitch with high accuracy. Utilizing Roland’s advanced technology, the device boasts rapid response times and minimal latency, ensuring that every note plucked or strummed is translated into MIDI in real-time. This precision is crucial for guitarists who wish to maintain their playing style while experimenting with synthesizers and sampled instruments.

In terms of connectivity, the Roland GI-20 is equipped with a 13-pin connector, allowing it to interface seamlessly with compatible Roland synths, sound modules, and other MIDI devices. Additionally, standard MIDI outputs enable connection to MIDI controllers and computers, providing an expansive toolkit for music creation.

The user interface is designed with simplicity in mind. A large LCD display allows for easy navigation of settings, while intuitive controls help players adjust parameters on the fly. Guitarists can also customize their performance by altering the sensitivity levels, enabling them to fine-tune how the device responds to their playing style.

The GI-20 offers an array of built-in sounds that mirror the capabilities of traditional synthesizers. These sounds can be layered or split into different tones based on the player’s preferences, offering a variety of sonic textures to enhance compositions. Furthermore, the ability to save and recall user settings allows for quick access to preferred configurations during live performances.

Another significant characteristic of the GI-20 is its compatibility with a wide range of guitars, including both electric and bass guitars. As long as the instrument is equipped with the appropriate pickup system, the GI-20 can effectively convert its output into MIDI signals.

In summary, the Roland GI-20 is a versatile and innovative tool for guitarists seeking to expand their creative horizons. With its accurate tracking, extensive connectivity, user-friendly interface, and a wealth of sounds, it unlocks the potential for guitarists to dive into the realms of electronic music and MIDI composition. Whether in the studio or on stage, the GI-20 opens up a world of possibilities for musicians looking to blend traditional guitar playing with modern technology.