7 – MIDI

As well as the MIDI ports, the DM-3200 can pass MIDI to and from a PC connected using the USB connec- tion (as well as through a FireWire connection if an optional FireWire interface card is fitted). This section explains some of the ways in which the card is used.

MIDI port switching and filtering

Press the MIDI key and navigate to the SETUP page to bring up the following screen:

Figure 7.1: MIDI setup

The three boxes to the left of the screen (MIDI IN, MIDI OUT and MIDI THRU/MTC) refer to the three physical MIDI connectors on the rear panel.

The HOST PORT boxes on the right of the screen refer to the different virtual MIDI ports carried between the DM-3200 and the host PC, either through the built-in USB, or through the optional FireWire card.

Use the HOST PORT parameter to select the vir- tual MIDI port carrier: either USB or FW1 (if optional FireWire cards have been fitted).

The different virtual MIDI ports are dedicated to dif- ferent tasks. Working from the top of the screen (the numbers in parentheses refer to the port numbers shown in a DAW application, etc.:

I/O (2) handles MIDI messages, bypassing the mixer section, and acting through the DM-3200’s physical MIDI ports.

P.C. (4) handles Program Change messages only.

TMC (1) is reserved for communication with the PC software (TASCAM Mixer Companion)

REM1(5) and REM2 (6) are bi-directional ports that may be used for remote MIDI control of the DM- 3200 or the DM-3200 to control another device.

MTC (3) is a dedicated MIDI Time Code port.

Enable and disable these ports, along with the physical MIDI ports, by using the cursor keys and ENTER key to open and close the on- screen switches. Note that the TMC connection (1) cannot be turned off.

The FILTER boxes allow the following MIDI messages to be passed (checked) or blocked (unchecked): Con- trol change (C.Cng), Program change (P.Cng), MIDI Machine Control (MMC), MIDI Timecode (MTC), and other messages (Others).

The first part of the filter block refers to those mes- sages received at the physical MIDI IN and transmit- ted to the virtual I/O port, as well as those MIDI messages that go the other way (from the I/O port to the physical MIDI OUT). Note that both the physical and virtual switches must be set here for data to go between these ports.

The next part of the block governs the filtering between the physical MIDI IN port and the mixer.

The final part of the filter block governs the filtering of the MIDI data sent out by the mixer from the phys- ical MIDI OUT port.

Below the filter is the 4-way switch (use the wheel and ENTER key to set this up) allowing switching between:

OFF — no MIDI data is sent from the THRU port

THRU — the data received at the physical MIDI IN is echoed through the THRU port

INT MTC — the internal MIDI timecode generator’s output is sent through the THRU port

USB MTC — the MIDI timecode received at the USB MTC port is echoed at the THRU port

Finally at the bottom, the slot FireWire card MIDI connection can be switched on and off.

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Tascam DM-3200 owner manual Midi port switching and filtering

DM-3200 specifications

The Tascam DM-3200 is a versatile digital mixing console renowned for its professional audio capabilities and comprehensive feature set. Launched as a part of Tascam’s acclaimed DM series, this console has become a favorite among recording engineers and musicians for its flexibility and high-quality sound processing.

One of the standout features of the DM-3200 is its ability to handle both analog and digital audio signals seamlessly. With 32 input channels, it provides ample connectivity options that are vital for modern studios. It supports both analog line-level signals and digital inputs via ADAT, AES/EBU, and S/PDIF, which allows for extensive routing and integration with various devices and systems.

The DM-3200 features an 8-bus architecture, which enables users to create complex mixes with ease. Each channel is equipped with a 4-band parametric EQ, offering precise control over the tonal balance of each audio source. The onboard effects processing includes virtual effects such as reverb, delay, and modulation, which enhances the overall sound quality and provides creative options for mixing and mastering.

Another notable aspect of the DM-3200 is its intuitive user interface. The console features an LCD display alongside faders, knobs, and buttons designed for quick and efficient operation. The layout facilitates smooth navigation through menus, making it user-friendly for both novice and experienced engineers.

In terms of recording and playback, the DM-3200 supports 24-bit/96 kHz audio resolution, ensuring high-fidelity sound for both tracking and mixing. This capability makes it suitable for post-production, live sound, and studio work, providing high-quality audio requisite in various applications.

Tascam has integrated advanced automation features into the DM-3200, allowing users to automate fader positions, effects parameters, and more. This feature is particularly beneficial during mixing sessions where precision and repeatability are essential.

Additionally, the DM-3200 is capable of digital multitrack recording and can interface seamlessly with DAWs via FireWire, enhancing its versatility in a hybrid studio environment. Whether you are recording a band, mixing a podcast, or producing a film score, the Tascam DM-3200 stands out as a powerful tool in professional audio production.