Triggering multiple synths with one controller

[MP]

Hi All,

It's official . . . I'm a registered Metro user! Now here come the dumb questions!

I have three vst instruments set up on three separate tracks. I want to trigger all three from one controller at the same time (when I hit a key on the controller, I want to hear all three synths). I have searched the documentation and this forum first, but so far have found nothing.

While we're at it, can I use three different controllers at the same time to trigger their own tracks? I have three set up in the "record from" setting, but cannot figure out how to assign them to each track.

Thanks so much.

[Jerm]

It's official . . . I'm a registered Metro user! Now here come the dumb questions!

Congratulations!

I want to trigger all three from one controller at the same time (when I hit a key on the controller, I want to hear all three synths).

This is currently only possible with external MIDI. You could file a feature request here.

While we're at it, can I use three different controllers at the same time to trigger their own tracks? I have three set up in the "record from" setting, but cannot figure out how to assign them to each track.

You have 3 MIDI controllers?
I don't think this is possible. Metro only supports a single MIDI thru process so it will send all three controllers to the first record-enabled track (assuming that auto-MIDI thru is on).

What are the 3 plug-ins you are trying to trigger?

[MP]

Hi Jeremy,

Thanks for getting back to me so quickly.

I was hoping to be able to layer synths in realtime . . . like Crystal, Vsamp, and epiano, for instance (all the expensive stuff!). And then route their outputs to a looping plugin (Agustus Loop). By the way, I would never try such a stunt with another OSX sequencer, especially on my Powerbook! Is there no work-around for this type of thing?

Regarding the three controllers . . . I occasionally teach a computer music class for young kids (5-7 years old). What I have done in the past is set up three keyboards, each would transmit to a unique track in Digital Performer, triggering a virtual instrument. One student would play drums, another bass, etc. Also, I occasionally work with a drummer who lays down a midi drum track while I simultaniously record various other midi parts. Can I get any closer by creating virtual midi ports in Midi Patchbay?

Mike

[Jerm]

I was hoping to be able to layer synths in realtime . . .

Yes, this makes sense.

Regarding the three controllers . . . I occasionally teach a computer music class for young kids (5-7 years old). What I have done in the past is set up three keyboards, each would transmit to a unique track in Digital Performer, triggering a virtual instrument. One student would play drums, another bass, etc. Also, I occasionally work with a drummer who lays down a midi drum track while I simultaniously record various other midi parts. Can I get any closer by creating virtual midi ports in Midi Patchbay?

This also makes good sense. Unfortunately the only way to accomplish this today is to not use Virtual Instruments and leave the external synth's local control on. I am not too familiar with using virtual MIDI ports but I do not think that that will work.

I will think more about this.