Recording MIDI file to audio - settings problems?

[clord]

Under OS9 in Metro 5, I was able to set input/output so that I could make a digital audio copy of an existing MIDI file within Metro, playing out to my synth and back into the CPU thru iMic. Now that I'm on OS 10.3, the right options don't seem to be available. (Am running standalone GS4 desktop, but also need to run in our networked university lab for students.)

When I create a new output channel for playback on built-in audio, the Digital Audio window used to show the record inputs as iMic L and R, now only "iMic 1 audio system 1" shows. In the Input Sel column of the tracks window, I have multiple options, as before, including L,R,L+R, iMic systems 1, 2, and 1+2, then Output Master Direct L, R, L+R.

Only the Output Master Direct option produces an actual audio track when I press Record - no level indication of input, no blank digital track created with other settings. And the Direct option just produces a blank track.

I know audio is getting into the CPU, because the Sound prefs input level is fine and the synth sound plays through my computer speakers fine too.

What am I doing wrong?

[Jerm]

If you select 'iMic 1 + 2' do you see a vu level in the tracks window when the track is record enabled?

What version of Metro are you using?

[clord]

I'm using the G4/OSX version. No, I don't see any VU level indications during recording no matter what input settings I choose from the tracks window. There's only one option available in the Digital Audio windows too - iMic 1

Thx, Chuck

[Jerm]

That is pretty funny because my iMic has a very similar problem. It seems that I can record but I cannot playback. One thing to check is those notoriously bad mini jack cables. Those things are definitely not high quality.

What version of Metro? 6.0.8, 6.1, 6.22, etc.
What kind of computer? No built-in audio?

It is not recommended to use USB MIDI and USB audio on the same machine.

There is also the matter of the mic/line switch on the iMic. Have you tried toggling it?

[Scoot]

I don't know how an imic works but I assume it has a driver and finds its way into the audio/midi setup.

I was thinking maybe you have a stereo pair naming itself iMic1.

If you were to go to the special menu and modify outputs and busses create 2 outputs on the imic called metro imic.

Then in the tracks window set them as L and R.

[clord]

Responses to Jerm's questions sprinkled into quote of his message...

That is pretty funny because my iMic has a very similar problem. It seems that I can record but I cannot playback. One thing to check is those notoriously bad mini jack cables. Those things are definitely not high quality.

What version of Metro? 6.0.8, 6.1, 6.22, etc.
Metro 6.1

What kind of computer? No built-in audio?
Mac G4 533MHz, 512MbRAM, OS 10.3.6


It is not recommended to use USB MIDI and USB audio on the same machine.
Then how does one connect a synth for playback/recording back into the computer if not USB?

There is also the matter of the mic/line switch on the iMic. Have you tried toggling it?
Yes - one of the first things I tried to no avail.

Thx again, Chuck

[Jerm]

Then how does one connect a synth for playback/recording back into the computer if not USB?

My recommendation is to connect a mixer. Connect the mixer main outputs to a cable that converts stereo 1/4 inch (or rca) to 1/8 inch that plugs into your audio in on your computer. Connect synth outs to the mixer. If you refuse to use a mixer you could directly connect the synth to the audio inputs using the 1/8 inch adapter cable.

Alternatively you could also use a PCI audio card if your computer contains PCI slots.

Another thing to try with your current configuration is to make sure you are not using any internal ports, including the Metronome. Open the metronome door from the transport and select a non-internal port, such as MIDI. Change any tracks that are assigned to internal ports and try recording again.

I wonder if you have tried this on other machines in the lab?