How to Map MIDI Controllers?

4 minutes read

Mapping MIDI controllers allows you to assign specific functions or parameters in a software application to physical knobs, sliders, buttons, or other controls on your MIDI controller. This can be useful for controlling virtual instruments, effects, or other software parameters in a more tactile and intuitive way.


To map MIDI controllers, you typically need to access the MIDI mapping or control surface settings within your software application. This may involve going into the preferences or settings menu and selecting a MIDI mapping option. Once in the mapping mode, you can then select the parameter you want to control and physically move or manipulate the corresponding control on your MIDI controller to assign it to that parameter.


Some software applications may have a learn function that automatically detects which control on your MIDI controller you are trying to map and assigns it accordingly. Others may require you to manually select the control on your MIDI controller and then select the parameter in the software interface to link them together.


Once you have successfully mapped your MIDI controller, you should be able to control the assigned parameters using the physical controls on your MIDI controller. This can greatly enhance your workflow and allow for more creative and expressive control over your software instruments and effects.


How to map MIDI controllers in Reaper?

To map MIDI controllers in Reaper, follow these steps:

  1. Connect your MIDI controller to your computer and make sure it is detected by Reaper.
  2. Open Reaper and go to Options > Preferences (Ctrl + P on Windows, Command + , on Mac) to open the Preferences window.
  3. In the Preferences window, go to Control/OSC/Web and click on MIDI Devices.
  4. In the MIDI Devices window, make sure your MIDI controller is listed under the MIDI inputs section. If it is not listed, click on Enable input for the device you want to use and click Apply and OK.
  5. Close the Preferences window and go to Options > MIDI Editor MIDI Learn mode.
  6. In the MIDI Learn mode, select the parameter you want to map to your MIDI controller by clicking on it.
  7. Move the corresponding knob or button on your MIDI controller to assign it to the selected parameter.
  8. Repeat steps 6 and 7 for any other parameters you want to map to your MIDI controller.
  9. Once you have mapped all the desired parameters, click on MIDI Learn mode again to exit the mode.
  10. Test your MIDI controller to make sure the mapping is working correctly.


You can now use your MIDI controller to control various parameters in Reaper.


How to map MIDI controllers for sliders and knobs?

Mapping MIDI controllers for sliders and knobs will depend on the software or hardware you are using. Here is a general guideline on how to map MIDI controllers for sliders and knobs in most software applications:

  1. Open your software or hardware controller mapping settings. This is usually found in the preferences or settings menu.
  2. Select the MIDI controller you want to map to a slider or knob. This will usually involve selecting the MIDI input and output channels for the controller.
  3. Locate the slider or knob you want to map to the MIDI controller. This may involve clicking on the control in your software or hardware interface.
  4. Assign the MIDI controller to the desired slider or knob by moving the physical control on your MIDI controller. This will typically involve clicking on a "learn" or "assign" button and then moving the desired control on your MIDI controller.
  5. Test the mapping by moving the physical control on your MIDI controller and verifying that the corresponding slider or knob in your software or hardware interface responds accordingly.
  6. Save the mapping configuration so that it can be recalled in the future.


It's important to note that the specific steps for mapping MIDI controllers for sliders and knobs may vary depending on the software or hardware you are using. Refer to the user manual or documentation for your specific software or hardware for detailed instructions on how to map MIDI controllers.


How to map MIDI controllers in Cubase?

To map MIDI controllers in Cubase, follow these steps:

  1. Connect your MIDI controller to your computer and open Cubase.
  2. Go to Devices in the top menu and select Device Setup.
  3. In the Device Setup window, click on the plus icon in the upper left corner to add a new MIDI device.
  4. Select your MIDI controller from the list of available devices and click OK.
  5. In the Device Setup window, select your MIDI controller from the list of installed MIDI devices.
  6. Click on the Remote Devices tab and then click on the Add button to add a new remote device.
  7. Select Generic Remote from the list of remote devices and click OK.
  8. In the Generic Remote window, you can now map your MIDI controller to various functions in Cubase. Click on a function in the left column, then move a knob, slider, or button on your MIDI controller to assign it to that function.
  9. You can also configure various parameters for each control, such as value range, color, and feedback options.
  10. Once you have mapped all your desired controls, click Apply and then OK to save your changes.


Your MIDI controller is now mapped to control various functions in Cubase. You can now use your MIDI controller to adjust levels, pan, automate effects, and more in your Cubase projects.

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