4 replies to this topic

[Spectrum]

Howdy everyone.

Despite some innovations on the MIDI front by Digidesign over the years, one aspect that's being sadly overlooked is native patch name management. Rather, Digi have opted for an XML-formated file system (as also used by MOTU's Digital Performer and Steinberg's Cubase), and that's about where their support stops.

The system relies on two specific file types:

• .midnam - the patch names specific to a synth (or other MIDI device)
  
• .middev - the specific configuration of a particular device (eg. number of MIDI channels).

While bundling an enormous quantity of (arguably outdated) MIDI device patch files with Pro Tools, they've absolutely failed to provide a simple system to modify these existing files, or make up new files from scratch. Were no MIDI synths released since 1999, Digi?

Their (headache) solution is detailed here:
http://duc.digidesig...&fpart=1#805542
and
http://duc.digidesig...&fpart=1#805549

Yeah right.  :

If you're on a Mac (or about to buy one ) then you'll be relieved to know there's a mighty fine solution in the name of CherryPicker:

http://www.alterspec...m/cherrypicker/

At last you can drag'n'drop patch name files from raw text list, or even rip straight out of synth manuals available in PDF format, if need be. A real lifesaver as I'm sure you can imagine.

I've persevered with this glaring oversight by Digi since Pro Tools 5 days, relying on the very workable (yet generally hated) OMS Name app. CherryPicker takes OMS Names to the next level, and the perfect companion for the Pro Tools MIDI user.

If anyone's needing assistance to get CherryPicker working for them, just make yourself heard.

Cheers,

Phil

[Cheyne]

great work Spectrum ..

Wish i knew more about Pro Tools so I could comment more !

[KCphoenix]

I'm a guitarist not a midi user! tired of Pro Tools and it's lack of support! Can't find Novation Xio synth midnam's or Black box midnam files all but given up! rather be play'n music than hunting the internet for non existant files. Peace cats!

[Spectrum]

Quote

Can't find Novation Xio synth midnam's or Black box midnam files all but given up! rather be play'n music than hunting the internet for non existant files. Peace cats!

Hello there KC!

I take it there must at least be an owners manual in PDF format available from Novation's site? And this would list the factory presets ready for copy/pasting? And are you on a Mac and can download the free Cherry Picker app? If so, we're 9/10 of the way there! Even if you can get the list of patches, it'd be a start.

Let me know where you're at and together we might be able to get you across the line...

[Anders]

Thanks Spectrum! Thats good to know.