for me it's a clear yes and no: I can filter the velocity but when it comes to the system messages I don't know how to get it working... already tried almost any possible configuration. Is there anything that has to be changed in the Keystep and the setup of the box as well?
@@niklas9649 maybe it is better to just connect only the keys to the midi controller with midi and connect controller to the mixer. And connect bass and beats/sample to the mixer as well? I mean: i wont buy an FM volca.....
@@Sharkwhisperer Like @Niklas said: it *does* work for filtering out the types of messages it mentions on the box (e.g. velocity, pitch bend), but the Miditech cannot filter out start/stop messages. I made the mistake of thinking that turning on the filter for "system" messages (which actually stands for "system exclusive" or "sysex") prevented start/stop, but that's *not* the case. Apparently, when you've connected an active MIDI device to the Keystep's MIDI IN (in our case it's the Beatstep Pro), the Keystep will not send start/stop messages when you press its transport buttons. When I press start/stop on the Beatstep, the Volcas *do* respond. So it's perfect for our scenario (we have made the agreement to never stop the Beatstep during jams, haha), but unfortunately the Miditech is not the solution for filtering out the transport messages.
@@SlenterendeBeer thanks but if I connect only the volca keys to the keystep and connect this with the mixer and connect the bass and the drums with the mixer. Further on I will connect the volcas among themselves so they are in sync. Would that be a solution. I am a beginner in this. Thanks a lot for you reply. I am dutch too. (also thinking about adding reverb pedal, the hall of fame 2 should be one of the best, but not cheap). And compliments from an English teacher for your English : )
@@Sharkwhisperer first of all on a sidenote: two dutch and a german discussing midi chains over UA-cam, that has a ring to it. But back to topic: when you try to invert the chain (regarding the clock signal), having the Volcas as master clock to the Keystep, you will lose the arpeggiator and sequencer function in the Keystep. They only work with the sync set to internal. That would reduce the Keystep to a mere keyboard, what would be a waste of possibilities in my opinion. @slenterende beer The twist with the midi-in signal stopping the system messages is kind of difficult to understand but intriguing.
What a great detailed explanation!!! Every beginner in synth music should watch this several times. Even us experienced folks can learn from this great demo. Thank you!
What a good explanation, Thanks !! Very few share knowledge and "their secrets" the way you do, clear and in a very entertaining way. Both of you are great and many should learn from you.
I've been searching for some good sources for learning how to make and use a midi setup. The videos I found was either about why USB is the better alternative or what "the brain" is. It's all good of course, but after simply enjoying one of Your jams, the algorithm lead me to this video right here. This, THIS helped me crack the code..! Thank you so very much! ❤
Most excellent walk thru. Clearly step by step explained. The additional descriptive notes are also nice, especially mentioning the MIDI Thru feature of the Keystep from software control panel. Other UA-cam'rs would do well to make similar set up videos. This has so much helpful info that it should be required viewing for all those diving into this arena of production. Whenever I'm recording a band or just my own gear I'm always wondering if there's a better (cleaner) way to connect things, but there really isn't. It may feel like a lot of cables but that's just how it goes. For audio, midi and power, most people just don't realize what is needed. Glad to know it's not just me that has so much to connect up. Cheers :-)
Dennis Ristow : Thanks so much for your great comment! Yeah, we’re always thinking about how things could be more organized / compact, but for now it looks like this is what we’re stuck with. :)
I already own most of the gear in this video. Thank you so much for doing this video.. I often get pretty confused trying to figure out how to make everything talk to each other.
@@SlenterendeBeer at the end I bought the volca mix because it has the ability to power 3 other volca's so no more recharging batteries...next problem was the ground loop hum but apparently the solution for that is mentioned in one of the other comments. I keep coming back to this video for advice 👍
With so many newer pieces of gear, such as volca, and other analog gear often only offer IN for MIDI. There is a schematic for a single in to 5 out thru box, that can be easily made or it can be bought for under 50$ online. I have a 19” processor for midi handling, but the 5 way thru is nice for portability, which is why I like volcas. It’s great to know that your learning this stuff, and that you have a unique solution that you’re happy with. Thanks for sharing!
Great video. This cable (in your description) isn't the proper one by the way: 3.5mm (1/8") stereo jack to single 6.35mm (1/4") mono jack (Volca to mono effects pedal): First of all, it doesn't exist :) it should say "3.5mm mono jack to single 6.35mm mono jack". However, I suggest using a 3.5mm stereo jack to dual 6.35mm mono jack cable and just using one instead of both of the 6.35mm cables. Thank you for this video and all of your volca jams. I enjoy watching you guys grow and the music you make is simply beautiful.
You have now answered my issue with Volca ground loop noise. And also that updated firmware on the Beatstep for the Sample. One can always learn from others.
Great video I watched this a year ago when I started with my first synth a Volca Sample. I struggled with building a Volca rig because of their stereo outs (requires more mixer) and weak sequencers (requires external sequencers) and the pain of syncing (not grest start-stop functionality). One year later I would take a Digitone-Digitact rig any day over a convoluted setup to run a few entry level synths.
excellent video and explanations. Love it. It covers all in detail. Currently i have fun building my own dawless config and also got aware of this 'start/stop' issue in conjunction with the other devices. Great tip to use the Miditru filter box to solve this. Thanks for this super video.
Verry informative. Just getting started with a dawless setup and this helps to figure out with gear I need. Nice to see you are tackling some problems which you encountered on the way. Problems like a ground loop or filtering midi messages could have take me hours of searching the web.
Lol bro I’m from California, Stockton to be exact. I started learning dutch last year and I totally hear your Dutch accent lol. Love it dude, and I love the language. And thanks for making this video, it answered a lot of questions I had about my own rig.
Fantastic video. I concur that the Midi filter is brilliant. If I had that 20+ years ago it would have saved so much time and many headaches. I noticed that you use ground loop isolators to reduce the hum (which are fantastic) but have you tried the MyVolts Mickxer? Obviously, if you’re using one specific effect pedal/box for one specific instrument it might be that useful, but if you are connecting multiple Volcas/POs/etc I have found that it works very well with ground noise. It also saves me a few channels on my smaller mixers so I don’t have to lug out a larger one. I am very impressed with it. Funny how a small setup takes a lot of time, work, creativity, and patience. You obviously have all of that. There is a ton of helpful info in this video and just watching it has rekindled my interest in the few Volcas I have but rarely use (gear hoarder here). Thanks for a great video. Like, subscribed, and shared..
Thank you for the video! It has been been a huge help with my trainwreck operation. I had no idea what to do with the humming, but your tip about the noise isolators helped me out. When I get the $ to invest on a Beatstep Pro, I will surely come back to this.
great video, regarding the ground loop issue, those boxes certainly work, or you can use isolated power for the various volcas and the effects (either with the supplied adaptors or you can use an isolated power supply depending on the power demands) should work a big multistrip and using the supplied adaptors is probably the easiest/cheapest option
Yeah nowadays we use a Strymon Zuma as an isolated power supply. Unfortunately the Volcas use the inverse polarity and the small 1.7mm plugs, so we decided to make our own cables. :)
@@SlenterendeBeer Amazon sells these: www.amazon.com/dp/B071X73NVV/?coliid=I6LWUBCK6OA0P&colid=EDU1DA5661JQ&psc=1&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it (Don't know how long they'll be at this url, but anyone who needs one in the next couple of months should be able to use this link.)
an excellent video! thank you for the very detailed but concise and clear explanations. you've tackled all the issues i have been running into and was looking for the answers for. keep up jamming 💪🎶
Amazing! Thanks so much for this detailed insight into your setup. I had no idea those ground isolators were a thing. I’ve had similar issues so I need to get some!
Amazing instructionvideo. I ordered a midi quadra thru but after I saw this video i sent it back and ordered a miditechfilter. I like your Jams and the setup you are using so it really helps for a noob like me. Keep up the good work. Thumbs up for you guys!
Congrats, man! Big MasterClass!! I learned how to solve the noise problem. I was thinking in use different source power outlet...cause unfortunately until now I can´t find those module in Brazil.
A very useful video that explains many things. I used the same setup and I am very happy with the result. One question: the key step in which mode is it set? Internal or midi? Thanks for sharing your great work. Greetings from Bavaria.
Thanks for this helpful video! I just found the following, for people who are looking for ways to make the Volca's not recieve stop and start signals. Press Start + FUNC to open the menu and then follow these instructions: Step 7 allows you to filter out any incoming MIDI RX Short Messages such as the Start and Stop commands (FA and FC, respectively). These will start and stop the sequencer from an external control, such a MIDI controller, the SQ-1 play button or your DAW (via a USB-MIDI interface). This feature is turned on by default (LED lit, and the “St.on” message). Turning this feature off allows you to take control of starting and halting the sequencer irrespective of the MIDI signals being received at the MIDI IN port (the volca can still sync to the MIDI clock, depending on what you have selected in step 6). Source: filipe-teixeira.com/electronic-music/volca-resources/volca-sample-tutorial-7/
Thanks for the video. However, I don't understand the part of using Miditech filter. Arturia Keystep sends FA system realtime message when the start button is pressed. To filter that out, you need to turn on switch 8 of miditech filter, which filters out all realtime messages such as F8H, FAH, FBH, FCH, FEH, FFH. This includes the timing clock and keystep or beatstep pro will no longer send out midi clock to volcas. How do you do this?
I just looked it up and you're right! Wow, that's confusing. I do know for sure that when I turn on switch 8 (realtime messages), none of the Volcas receive clock. But somehow when I turn on switch 8 (system exclusive messages), it will filter out the start/stop messages from the Keystep! So either my Miditech is broken, or the Keystep is sending out different messages for start/stop that fall under the system exclusive category. Weird. I will research this further.
@@SlenterendeBeer Thanks for the video(s) I’ve been following closely while getting my Volca’s setup. Wondering if anyone has an update for this issue though as I’m also getting this problem with the MidiTech Filter. I’ve looked at the software editor for the midi filter and tried custom MIDI CC settings et. I’ve also tried various settings on the Beatstep Pro editor, but cannot find a way of making it work. Any ides how to get this working? Thanks.
I figured out what i was doing wrong. I watched this video again and realised you are using the filter to stop the Keystep Arp/Seq triggering the Volca's when starting the keystep. I was focused on the Beatstep Pro Start/Stop triggering the Volca's (which it still does) but once that's running i can stop the volcas and i don't need to stop the beatstepPro again during my jam. The keystep work perfectly and doesn't trigger the Volca sequencers. Also, for anyone interested, for the Volcas I sequence from the Beatstep Pro, i have set the "MIDI Clock Src" (option 6) setting in the global settings on the Volca to "LED Off", which disables it from any external midi start, stop and clock. It doesn't need the midi clock as it's only a sound module for the beatstep. That way the filter doesn't have to block "Real Time" events to all devices. Hope this helps someone.
Great video, thanks for sharing. If you're still looking for a solution for filtering the midi stop messages from your keystep you should take a look at the midihub from blokas, I'm pretty sure it would work although it's probably overkill.
I use a midi transformer to layer volca drums with the circuit. The cuircuit drums don't output to the right notes to drive the drums on the volca beats so I write a tiny program for my midi transformer hardware that remaps the notes on the fly. While the volca beats has a cool sequencer on its own it doesn't have swing. The volca sample does but I like using analog drums on the same note as the samples on the circuit, I get really fat drum sounds by layering. Then I layer the bass synth with both volca keys and monologue, so I have a 5 osscilator analog bass layered with the circuit virtual analog bass. Sometimes I layer my circuit keys with the volca keys but usually I use the keys as a second bass voice either in unison or octave or ring mod mode.
@@SlenterendeBeer I'm working on it need some better lighting for my space but soon I'll be talking about circuit and even how to control volcas with Roli block
Amazing video. So helpful and inspirational. Thanks guys! However I had a quick question regarding the MIDI Thru/Filter device. I, just like you, found it very annoying that pushing the Stop/Start button on the Keystep would Stop/Start all the devices that are slaved to it. So I went ahead and bought the exact same Miditech device that you suggested. However I’m still having difficulties making it work the way I like. I believe the switch that needs to be ON for that purpose is the REAL switch, or the Switch #8. But when I turned that switch to ON, even though it DOES filter out the Stop/Start messages, but it also filters out the Clock data as well, and the Volacs ends up using their own internal clock for tempo, which is of course not ideal and messes up all my synchronizations. So in short my question would be, how do you filter out only the Stop/Star messages without losing out on Clocking data. I can’t find much useful info in the manual. I believe the main manual is in German, and the English version has not been translated really well, and it vague and confusing to me. I would really appreciate your help on this as I was not able to find help anywhere else. I understand if you don’t have time for this, I still continue following your beautiful channel and being inspired by them, Cheers,
Siavash Shiva : Thanks, glad to hear it was informational. I remember encountering the same issue, a few times even, but I can’t remember the exact solution. The way I approach solving the issue is to keep it as simple as possible. Set all filter options to OFF, except for #7. Then make sure the Keystep has no MIDI coming in and set its clock / sync dip switch to INTERNAL. Connect the the Keystep to the Miditech IN and one Volca to one of the OUT ports. Now program and play a sequence on the Volca, and change the RATE knob on the Keystep, which controls the tempo in INTERNAL mode. The Volca should change tempo and when you press the start/stop buttons on the Keystep the Volca should not respond. Hopefully that works and you can add devices one by one. Don’t forget to set the Keystep clock / sync dip switch to MIDI if it receives the clock from another MIDI device (like we have with the BSP). I hope that helps!
@@SlenterendeBeer Thanks again for the great response man. Really helpful again. For some reason my Keystep does not seem to function like yours. It looks like as soon as I press the play button on the slaved Volca, I lose all the clock data coming from the Keystep regardless of the Midi filter configuration. Only the the tempo knob on the Volca itself changes the tempo. I even tried it without the Miditech and it works the same way. Now I know the issue is with the Keystep, because I tried using my Electribe sampler as the clock master, and with the #7 switched ON on the Miditech, and it works exactly like you said with Volcas. I was able to change the tempo on the Electribe, and play sequence on the Volcas, and the Start/Stop messages from the Electribe are filtered perfectly. Do you know if there is a setting in the Keystep that would make it work like that? Thanks again!
Siavash Shiva : Hmm yeah the Keystep isn’t really meant to be a clock master. If I remember correctly it only sends MIDI clock on its own when the sync dip switch is set to INTERNAL and, more importantly, when it’s playing. So you should try another clock source as master, feed that into the Keystep’s MIDI IN and set its dip switch to MIDI. Also make sure that you enable “MIDI THRU” in the Keystep’s software (MIDI Control Center).
I really liked your video, but I have one question :) I just got a Volca modular and the weird thing is that when we connect it to our Focusrite Saffire Pro 24 with a TRS 1/8" to 1/4" adapter with the 1/8" TRS jack it came with, the audio out level is so low I can barely hear it. But when I connect a headphone everything's fine. I'm sure there is something with the connection between the Volca stereo out and the Focusrite's XLR/line in. I've seen that you have also some stereo and mono gear. How do you connect the stereo volcas to a mono input? Do you just simply use a stereo to mono adapter? Because you only talk about the ground loop isolator (which is useful too) but not about how you connect them together. Thanks in advance.
Helpful! One important part that wasn't clear is audio from volcas to effects. Are you simply going from one volca to one effects unit with a different effects unit for each volca? So: Sampler to Waldorf, Bass to Zoom 1, FM to Zoom 2, and Keys to Big Sky. Looks like you're not using an effects loop off the mixer and then sending channels, right?
Slenterende Beer I’ve posted the link to the Dawless Jammin’ Facebook group. One question: what is the make and model of the multitrack-capable mixer that you showed briefly near the beginning of the video?
Hi guys, thanks very much for the helpful video and great jams, I bought the keystep and beatstep after following the videos. I have the exact set up here but using just volca keys,bass and sample and even bought the same midi filter used. after setting up just like the video (midi out of beatstep into keys and then onto volcas)I have the sample coming through the drum channel of the beat step with each drum pad corresponding correctly to the sample, but I just can't seem to get the keystep to work with the bass or keys. It seems maybe I'm not setting up the midi channels properly on the control centre. Both Bass and Keys are set to midi channels 11 and 12 on there respective units after seeing the sample takes up the first 10 but maybe you could explain further how it should be set up in the midi centre. Thanks very much for you time.
Paul Savage : You need to set the corresponding MIDI channel on the Keystep as well, by holding SHIFT and pressing the 11th or 12th key on the keyboard. So you don’t need the Control Centre for that. The one thing you do need to set for the Keystep in the software is to enable MIDI THRU. Let me know if that helps.
@@SlenterendeBeer thanks very much guys, I got it working. I seemed to have some other settings on the volcas like the wrong clock or RX short message not selected when holding function and turning them on.
Hey, thanks a lot. Very interesting setup. I wanted to find a solution with a iconnecting audio 4+. That do a lot of the mixer and for recording in an pc or ipad. I'm using the retrokit rk-002 for the sample (and Kaossilator pro (as Synth)), and a zoom R16 mixer with recording function. I have learned something about your powersolutions from you. I have only volca sample, but some other devices. I solve the problem with the ground loop in other way. My solution is to use Usb batterys with 5volt to 9volt converter. Then there is no hum from the power, and it runs long enought . (🙂) I filter my midi signal with the iconnectivity., but it is much more complicated. ( but integrated) in the ica4+) The midisolution midithru filter is much more uncomplicated. And costs not so many. I have thinked about the rk-004 but it is not so cheap. Could be very nice, but i do not need it really. 😉 ( Yeah, optimised text - hope less gramatic and logic errors ;-)
Frank Ramrath : Hi Frank, it’s cool to hear you have a similar setup! Yeah I pretty quickly got annoyed with having to change the batteries all the time, so I’m happy with the current solution. :)
My time (at the moment) is limited, and i have to change the reloadable batteries every one or two weeks, so that it is no problem. And with big USB Battereis and 5Volt to 9Volt converters it is no problem. So i have batteries in only 3 devices. And the Keystep has a normal powerport. Thats great. :-)
re: Arturia Keystep sending Play/Stop messages to everything -- there is a parameter in Arturia MIDI Control Center to disable that. Unfortunately the current firmware has a bug and it currently can't be disabled. I talked with Arturia Support just a few days ago about that and they said they are going to fix that in a new version of firmware.
I just realized this could work even now if you are using Keystep as slave device: try setting "Transport Mode" in MIDI Control Center to "Off" instead of "MIDI". It doesn't work when Keystep is master clock but I didn't check if it works in other scenarios.
Great setup and clear explanation. I'm currently putting together a similar Volca-centred setup. I have a Volca Bass and Drum and an Arturia Beatstep (not the Pro though :/ ). I've just ordered a Conductive Labs NDLR as the arpeggiator/sequencer/MIDI brain for the rig. I shall be using a 0-Coast and Mini Brute too in the rig, just need to get a poly-synth or two - probably a Volca Keys and an FM (or maybe just a second Keys and poly-chain the lot). May still need a MIDI controller so your explanation of using the Beatstep into the Keystep is very useful, and I'm pretty sure I can filter out the Start/Stop messages in the NDLR somehow.
Additionally I have a question about the KEYSTEP. I can't get the arpeggiator and sequencer to work. Right now its receiving Sync In from the Volca's (last one in the cable series) and sending MIDI to a Volca Keys. Perhaps it is because I am not sending MIDI CLOCK to everything? I can play the Keys which is already a great upgrade from playing the tiny glass buttons. Thnx for any reply!
Peter Oosterloo : Hoi Peter. Make sure you’ve set the Keystep’s dip switches to “sync”. We’ve stopped using the sync cables and instead use MIDI for everything. You would need a MIDI splitter (or MIDI thru box) to connect all Volcas to MIDI. Hope that helps! :)
Midtech midi thru filter, does it work or not? Does someone know an alternative?
for me it's a clear yes and no: I can filter the velocity but when it comes to the system messages I don't know how to get it working... already tried almost any possible configuration. Is there anything that has to be changed in the Keystep and the setup of the box as well?
@@niklas9649 maybe it is better to just connect only the keys to the midi controller with midi and connect controller to the mixer. And connect bass and beats/sample to the mixer as well? I mean: i wont buy an FM volca.....
@@Sharkwhisperer Like @Niklas said: it *does* work for filtering out the types of messages it mentions on the box (e.g. velocity, pitch bend), but the Miditech cannot filter out start/stop messages. I made the mistake of thinking that turning on the filter for "system" messages (which actually stands for "system exclusive" or "sysex") prevented start/stop, but that's *not* the case. Apparently, when you've connected an active MIDI device to the Keystep's MIDI IN (in our case it's the Beatstep Pro), the Keystep will not send start/stop messages when you press its transport buttons. When I press start/stop on the Beatstep, the Volcas *do* respond. So it's perfect for our scenario (we have made the agreement to never stop the Beatstep during jams, haha), but unfortunately the Miditech is not the solution for filtering out the transport messages.
@@SlenterendeBeer thanks but if I connect only the volca keys to the keystep and connect this with the mixer and connect the bass and the drums with the mixer. Further on I will connect the volcas among themselves so they are in sync. Would that be a solution. I am a beginner in this. Thanks a lot for you reply. I am dutch too. (also thinking about adding reverb pedal, the hall of fame 2 should be one of the best, but not cheap). And compliments from an English teacher for your English : )
@@Sharkwhisperer first of all on a sidenote: two dutch and a german discussing midi chains over UA-cam, that has a ring to it.
But back to topic: when you try to invert the chain (regarding the clock signal), having the Volcas as master clock to the Keystep, you will lose the arpeggiator and sequencer function in the Keystep. They only work with the sync set to internal. That would reduce the Keystep to a mere keyboard, what would be a waste of possibilities in my opinion.
@slenterende beer The twist with the midi-in signal stopping the system messages is kind of difficult to understand but intriguing.
I think I speak for everyone when I say ‘respect and thank you’.
You're welcome!! :)
Y
What a great detailed explanation!!! Every beginner in synth music should watch this several times. Even us experienced folks can learn from this great demo. Thank you!
Thank you, happy to hear everything's clear. :)
My deep respect for the makers of this great tutorial. The right words, the right tempo and easy to follow. Thanks!
Peter Bode : Thank you, appreciate it!! :)
As a tech dude who knows this stuff i have to say... what an excellent video! Clear, complete, and accurate. Bravo!
Robin Parmar : Thank you so much!! That means a lot. :)
What a good explanation, Thanks !!
Very few share knowledge and "their secrets" the way you do, clear and in a very entertaining way.
Both of you are great and many should learn from you.
This is soooo helpful thank you tons!! 🙏🏼
I've been searching for some good sources for learning how to make and use a midi setup. The videos I found was either about why USB is the better alternative or what "the brain" is. It's all good of course, but after simply enjoying one of Your jams, the algorithm lead me to this video right here.
This, THIS helped me crack the code..! Thank you so very much! ❤
I use the Novation circuit tracks to control the volca and it can also filter the Midi system/play messages!
This is very helpful. I appreciate the level of the technical detail and the talent in the music you produce. Thanks.
Jaime Gonzalez : Thank you, glad to hear this was helpful! :)
One of the most informative and well structured vids I've seen on this topic. Thank you!
Most excellent walk thru. Clearly step by step explained. The additional descriptive notes are also nice, especially mentioning the MIDI Thru feature of the Keystep from software control panel. Other UA-cam'rs would do well to make similar set up videos. This has so much helpful info that it should be required viewing for all those diving into this arena of production. Whenever I'm recording a band or just my own gear I'm always wondering if there's a better (cleaner) way to connect things, but there really isn't. It may feel like a lot of cables but that's just how it goes. For audio, midi and power, most people just don't realize what is needed. Glad to know it's not just me that has so much to connect up. Cheers :-)
Dennis Ristow : Thanks so much for your great comment! Yeah, we’re always thinking about how things could be more organized / compact, but for now it looks like this is what we’re stuck with. :)
I already own most of the gear in this video. Thank you so much for doing this video.. I often get pretty confused trying to figure out how to make everything talk to each other.
I would never have thought about the polarity of the power adapter...genius! Thanks for sharing
David Naus : Glad to hear this was useful! :)
@@SlenterendeBeer at the end I bought the volca mix because it has the ability to power 3 other volca's so no more recharging batteries...next problem was the ground loop hum but apparently the solution for that is mentioned in one of the other comments. I keep coming back to this video for advice 👍
Aw man, You have the Big Sky-- the final piece of gear I need for my setup.
08:00 Using the pajen firmware you can filter out velocity on each pattern individually, if you want. No hardware midi filter required.
very generous of you to share all your setup and insights gained over time. Thanks!!
An outstanding setup video. Thank you so much. Excellent pace and great explanations.
With so many newer pieces of gear, such as volca, and other analog gear often only offer IN for MIDI. There is a schematic for a single in to 5 out thru box, that can be easily made or it can be bought for under 50$ online. I have a 19” processor for midi handling, but the 5 way thru is nice for portability, which is why I like volcas. It’s great to know that your learning this stuff, and that you have a unique solution that you’re happy with. Thanks for sharing!
Where can one find said schematic?
May one kindly inquire about said schematic?
Schematic?
We crave the schematic kind sir
Another way to stop them from playing is to turn clock to internal in the global settings
Love your videos!
Great video.
This cable (in your description) isn't the proper one by the way:
3.5mm (1/8") stereo jack to single 6.35mm (1/4") mono jack (Volca to mono effects pedal):
First of all, it doesn't exist :) it should say "3.5mm mono jack to single 6.35mm mono jack". However, I suggest using a 3.5mm stereo jack to dual 6.35mm mono jack cable and just using one instead of both of the 6.35mm cables.
Thank you for this video and all of your volca jams. I enjoy watching you guys grow and the music you make is simply beautiful.
You have now answered my issue with Volca ground loop noise. And also that updated firmware on the Beatstep for the Sample. One can always learn from others.
JamEDodger : That’s great to hear. Thanks for watching! :)
Great video I watched this a year ago when I started with my first synth a Volca Sample. I struggled with building a Volca rig because of their stereo outs (requires more mixer) and weak sequencers (requires external sequencers) and the pain of syncing (not grest start-stop functionality).
One year later I would take a Digitone-Digitact rig any day over a convoluted setup to run a few entry level synths.
I love seeing peeps setups! Really in depth tour, thanks for sharing
Thanks so much for this video. You have answered so many questions that google couldn’t.
Samuel Tame : Glad to hear this was helpful! :)
This most useful music tutorial I’ve seen on you tube! Thanks guys!!!
Just learned a lot from the MIDI section of this, thank you!!
As a total newb, thank you soooo much for making this vid!!!
If you hold func while you start any volca, push 6 and you can set the incoming transport midi messages, while you can sequence and clock
excellent video and explanations. Love it. It covers all in detail. Currently i have fun building my own dawless config and also got aware of this 'start/stop' issue in conjunction with the other devices. Great tip to use the Miditru filter box to solve this. Thanks for this super video.
Verry informative. Just getting started with a dawless setup and this helps to figure out with gear I need. Nice to see you are tackling some problems which you encountered on the way. Problems like a ground loop or filtering midi messages could have take me hours of searching the web.
Thanks for such a detailed and thorough description of your setup!
Eon Hetherton : You’re welcome! :)
Lol bro I’m from California, Stockton to be exact. I started learning dutch last year and I totally hear your Dutch accent lol. Love it dude, and I love the language.
And thanks for making this video, it answered a lot of questions I had about my own rig.
Thank you so much for your generosity and clarity - the links in the description are particularly helpful! Wishing you well.
Thank you! Glad to see we have very similar setup. Great tutorial for anyone!
Every volca should be sold with delay/reverb pedal :)
Thanks for inspiration and tech details.
Fantastic video.
I concur that the Midi filter is brilliant. If I had that 20+ years ago it would have saved so much time and many headaches.
I noticed that you use ground loop isolators to reduce the hum (which are fantastic) but have you tried the MyVolts Mickxer? Obviously, if you’re using one specific effect pedal/box for one specific instrument it might be that useful, but if you are connecting multiple Volcas/POs/etc I have found that it works very well with ground noise.
It also saves me a few channels on my smaller mixers so I don’t have to lug out a larger one. I am very impressed with it.
Funny how a small setup takes a lot of time, work, creativity, and patience. You obviously have all of that.
There is a ton of helpful info in this video and just watching it has rekindled my interest in the few Volcas I have but rarely use (gear hoarder here).
Thanks for a great video. Like, subscribed, and shared..
*might not be that useful. Sorry about a few grammatical errors. I tried to edit but I was not able to.
Thank you for the video! It has been been a huge help with my trainwreck operation. I had no idea what to do with the humming, but your tip about the noise isolators helped me out. When I get the $ to invest on a Beatstep Pro, I will surely come back to this.
You can set the velocity of the beatstep pro keys in the Arturia midi control centre software.
Nick Fox : Okay, good to know. If I remember correctly, that was not possible when I made this video.
lot of value on this video, thanks for sharing
Thanks for taking the time to detail your setup. Very clear and informative!
Thanks so much for taking the time to share your knowledge . 🇬🇧
Abel's sound and melody is unique !!!
thank you for the teachings
Sicoliric : Thanks Cesar!! :)
Ooohhh!!!months looking for videos like this one!!! Lets do many more,please...best!!
Thank you for this. I always loved your set up. Glad I stumbled across this. This covered ALLOT of ground. Thanks again brother.
Really dig this setup!
And your detailed explanation !
great video, regarding the ground loop issue, those boxes certainly work, or you can use isolated power for the various volcas and the effects (either with the supplied adaptors or you can use an isolated power supply depending on the power demands) should work
a big multistrip and using the supplied adaptors is probably the easiest/cheapest option
Yeah nowadays we use a Strymon Zuma as an isolated power supply. Unfortunately the Volcas use the inverse polarity and the small 1.7mm plugs, so we decided to make our own cables. :)
@@SlenterendeBeer Amazon sells these: www.amazon.com/dp/B071X73NVV/?coliid=I6LWUBCK6OA0P&colid=EDU1DA5661JQ&psc=1&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it
(Don't know how long they'll be at this url, but anyone who needs one in the next couple of months should be able to use this link.)
Just in the process of buying my first volca and I was not sure which cables I need and should get so you helped me tooons! Thank you so much!
Really appreciate your info., made a good difference in my setups!! Cheers!!! Thumbs up and already suscribed!!
This was a great, thorough explanation. I'm going to start working a similar setup with my Volcas. Thanks!
I haven't understood what MIDI could do at all . Great video , thank you !
バター犬 : You’re welcome! Glad to hear it helped. :)
an excellent video! thank you for the very detailed but concise and clear explanations. you've tackled all the issues i have been running into and was looking for the answers for. keep up jamming 💪🎶
So glad I already have my BigSky for this
Thanks for this very clear description ! 👍
thank you so much for sharing this...it is really helpful for anyone interested in getting started with analog setup.
You guys are great
Cool. An interesting tour
huge props for making this breakdown video for us starters aka noobs lol. helped a lot. things just got less intimidating for sure
Thank you very much for the video. It will help me a lot.
Amazing! Thanks so much for this detailed insight into your setup. I had no idea those ground isolators were a thing. I’ve had similar issues so I need to get some!
Grounding cables omg thank you!
09:30 the pajen firmware allows users to put all volca sample patterns on a single midi channel
Amazing instructionvideo. I ordered a midi quadra thru but after I saw this video i sent it back and ordered a miditechfilter. I like your Jams and the setup you are using so it really helps for a noob like me. Keep up the good work. Thumbs up for you guys!
Mikko Inemyr : Thanks, Mikko! :)
great video!
Congrats, man!
Big MasterClass!!
I learned how to solve the noise problem.
I was thinking in use different source power outlet...cause unfortunately until now I can´t find those module in Brazil.
Heitor : Good to hear this helped! :)
I've been looking for long on youtube for such a good explanation. Thanks very much!!!!!
Great, you're welcome! :)
This video was so incredibly useful. Thank you very much.
Blessed video, love the detailed explanation from the ground up.
This is what I was looking for
Really nice, well put-together presentation. Thanks!
Zach Barnhart : You’re welcome! :)
A very useful video that explains many things. I used the same setup and I am very happy with the result. One question: the key step in which mode is it set? Internal or midi? Thanks for sharing your great work. Greetings from Bavaria.
I’m one month in … pointers for Roland boutique please tr08
Thanks for this helpful video!
I just found the following, for people who are looking for ways to make the Volca's not recieve stop and start signals. Press Start + FUNC to open the menu and then follow these instructions:
Step 7 allows you to filter out any incoming MIDI RX Short Messages such as the Start and Stop commands (FA and FC, respectively). These will start and stop the sequencer from an external control, such a MIDI controller, the SQ-1 play button or your DAW (via a USB-MIDI interface). This feature is turned on by default (LED lit, and the “St.on” message). Turning this feature off allows you to take control of starting and halting the sequencer irrespective of the MIDI signals being received at the MIDI IN port (the volca can still sync to the MIDI clock, depending on what you have selected in step 6).
Source: filipe-teixeira.com/electronic-music/volca-resources/volca-sample-tutorial-7/
a great video for the community. thank you guys
Thanks for the video. However, I don't understand the part of using Miditech filter. Arturia Keystep sends FA system realtime message when the start button is pressed. To filter that out, you need to turn on switch 8 of miditech filter, which filters out all realtime messages such as F8H, FAH, FBH, FCH, FEH, FFH. This includes the timing clock and keystep or beatstep pro will no longer send out midi clock to volcas. How do you do this?
I just looked it up and you're right! Wow, that's confusing. I do know for sure that when I turn on switch 8 (realtime messages), none of the Volcas receive clock. But somehow when I turn on switch 8 (system exclusive messages), it will filter out the start/stop messages from the Keystep! So either my Miditech is broken, or the Keystep is sending out different messages for start/stop that fall under the system exclusive category. Weird. I will research this further.
@@SlenterendeBeer Thanks for the video(s) I’ve been following closely while getting my Volca’s setup. Wondering if anyone has an update for this issue though as I’m also getting this problem with the MidiTech Filter. I’ve looked at the software editor for the midi filter and tried custom MIDI CC settings et. I’ve also tried various settings on the Beatstep Pro editor, but cannot find a way of making it work. Any ides how to get this working? Thanks.
I figured out what i was doing wrong. I watched this video again and realised you are using the filter to stop the Keystep Arp/Seq triggering the Volca's when starting the keystep. I was focused on the Beatstep Pro Start/Stop triggering the Volca's (which it still does) but once that's running i can stop the volcas and i don't need to stop the beatstepPro again during my jam. The keystep work perfectly and doesn't trigger the Volca sequencers.
Also, for anyone interested, for the Volcas I sequence from the Beatstep Pro, i have set the "MIDI Clock Src" (option 6) setting in the global settings on the Volca to "LED Off", which disables it from any external midi start, stop and clock. It doesn't need the midi clock as it's only a sound module for the beatstep. That way the filter doesn't have to block "Real Time" events to all devices. Hope this helps someone.
Awesome stuff super informative and simple
Thank for your Valuable time.
Would love to see how you guys utilize the RK004 - I have one and it's seemingly the most daunting device to get to work.
very cool and detailed walkthrough, thanks!
Great video, thanks for sharing. If you're still looking for a solution for filtering the midi stop messages from your keystep you should take a look at the midihub from blokas, I'm pretty sure it would work although it's probably overkill.
Thanks for the suggestion!
I use a midi transformer to layer volca drums with the circuit. The cuircuit drums don't output to the right notes to drive the drums on the volca beats so I write a tiny program for my midi transformer hardware that remaps the notes on the fly. While the volca beats has a cool sequencer on its own it doesn't have swing. The volca sample does but I like using analog drums on the same note as the samples on the circuit, I get really fat drum sounds by layering. Then I layer the bass synth with both volca keys and monologue, so I have a 5 osscilator analog bass layered with the circuit virtual analog bass. Sometimes I layer my circuit keys with the volca keys but usually I use the keys as a second bass voice either in unison or octave or ring mod mode.
Brian Redfern : Interesting! Do you have a video online of this setup?
@@SlenterendeBeer I'm working on it need some better lighting for my space but soon I'll be talking about circuit and even how to control volcas with Roli block
Brian Redfern : Cool! :)
Very useful.. Thanks so much!
Amazing video. So helpful and inspirational. Thanks guys!
However I had a quick question regarding the MIDI Thru/Filter device. I, just like you, found it very annoying that pushing the Stop/Start button on the Keystep would Stop/Start all the devices that are slaved to it. So I went ahead and bought the exact same Miditech device that you suggested. However I’m still having difficulties making it work the way I like. I believe the switch that needs to be ON for that purpose is the REAL switch, or the Switch #8. But when I turned that switch to ON, even though it DOES filter out the Stop/Start messages, but it also filters out the Clock data as well, and the Volacs ends up using their own internal clock for tempo, which is of course not ideal and messes up all my synchronizations.
So in short my question would be, how do you filter out only the Stop/Star messages without losing out on Clocking data. I can’t find much useful info in the manual. I believe the main manual is in German, and the English version has not been translated really well, and it vague and confusing to me.
I would really appreciate your help on this as I was not able to find help anywhere else. I understand if you don’t have time for this, I still continue following your beautiful channel and being inspired by them,
Cheers,
Siavash Shiva : Thanks, glad to hear it was informational. I remember encountering the same issue, a few times even, but I can’t remember the exact solution. The way I approach solving the issue is to keep it as simple as possible. Set all filter options to OFF, except for #7. Then make sure the Keystep has no MIDI coming in and set its clock / sync dip switch to INTERNAL. Connect the the Keystep to the Miditech IN and one Volca to one of the OUT ports. Now program and play a sequence on the Volca, and change the RATE knob on the Keystep, which controls the tempo in INTERNAL mode. The Volca should change tempo and when you press the start/stop buttons on the Keystep the Volca should not respond. Hopefully that works and you can add devices one by one. Don’t forget to set the Keystep clock / sync dip switch to MIDI if it receives the clock from another MIDI device (like we have with the BSP). I hope that helps!
@@SlenterendeBeer Thanks again for the great response man. Really helpful again. For some reason my Keystep does not seem to function like yours. It looks like as soon as I press the play button on the slaved Volca, I lose all the clock data coming from the Keystep regardless of the Midi filter configuration. Only the the tempo knob on the Volca itself changes the tempo. I even tried it without the Miditech and it works the same way. Now I know the issue is with the Keystep, because I tried using my Electribe sampler as the clock master, and with the #7 switched ON on the Miditech, and it works exactly like you said with Volcas. I was able to change the tempo on the Electribe, and play sequence on the Volcas, and the Start/Stop messages from the Electribe are filtered perfectly. Do you know if there is a setting in the Keystep that would make it work like that? Thanks again!
Siavash Shiva : Hmm yeah the Keystep isn’t really meant to be a clock master. If I remember correctly it only sends MIDI clock on its own when the sync dip switch is set to INTERNAL and, more importantly, when it’s playing. So you should try another clock source as master, feed that into the Keystep’s MIDI IN and set its dip switch to MIDI. Also make sure that you enable “MIDI THRU” in the Keystep’s software (MIDI Control Center).
@Sam Petty Yes that exactly what I ended up doing as my last hope, and it worked!
thank you for all the informations. best regards from germany also interesting the explanation of the band gusgus iceland
Ah cool, I'll check it out! :)
Thanks for such a great video. I have learned a hell of a lot from this and it would be great if you could do the midi specific video some day. 👍
Hi great video, if the controller I have only has an entrance midi out 3.5 mm, can I connect it to the volca with the midi in 5 pin on the other side?
I really liked your video, but I have one question :) I just got a Volca modular and the weird thing is that when we connect it to our Focusrite Saffire Pro 24 with a TRS 1/8" to 1/4" adapter with the 1/8" TRS jack it came with, the audio out level is so low I can barely hear it. But when I connect a headphone everything's fine. I'm sure there is something with the connection between the Volca stereo out and the Focusrite's XLR/line in. I've seen that you have also some stereo and mono gear. How do you connect the stereo volcas to a mono input? Do you just simply use a stereo to mono adapter? Because you only talk about the ground loop isolator (which is useful too) but not about how you connect them together. Thanks in advance.
Helpful! One important part that wasn't clear is audio from volcas to effects. Are you simply going from one volca to one effects unit with a different effects unit for each volca? So: Sampler to Waldorf, Bass to Zoom 1, FM to Zoom 2, and Keys to Big Sky. Looks like you're not using an effects loop off the mixer and then sending channels, right?
AWESOME tutorial! Very well explained!
Glad you liked it! :)
Slenterende Beer I’ve posted the link to the Dawless Jammin’ Facebook group.
One question: what is the make and model of the multitrack-capable mixer that you showed briefly near the beginning of the video?
Jesse Tal : Cool, thanks!! It’s in the video description: it’s the Behringer UFX1204. :)
Slenterende Beer Ah, okay. Thanks!
Excellent video. Was very helpful :)
thank U very much (from south america)
A great video. I has been very useful to me thanksss!
Hi guys, thanks very much for the helpful video and great jams, I bought the keystep and beatstep after following the videos.
I have the exact set up here but using just volca keys,bass and sample and even bought the same midi filter used.
after setting up just like the video (midi out of beatstep into keys and then onto volcas)I have the sample coming through the drum channel of the beat step with each drum pad corresponding correctly to the sample, but I just can't seem to get the keystep to work with the bass or keys. It seems maybe I'm not setting up the midi channels properly on the control centre. Both Bass and Keys are set to midi channels 11 and 12 on there respective units after seeing the sample takes up the first 10 but maybe you could explain further how it should be set up in the midi centre. Thanks very much for you time.
Paul Savage : You need to set the corresponding MIDI channel on the Keystep as well, by holding SHIFT and pressing the 11th or 12th key on the keyboard. So you don’t need the Control Centre for that. The one thing you do need to set for the Keystep in the software is to enable MIDI THRU. Let me know if that helps.
@@SlenterendeBeer thanks very much guys, I got it working. I seemed to have some other settings on the volcas like the wrong clock or RX short message not selected when holding function and turning them on.
Paul Savage : Great, glad to hear that!! :)
Hey, thanks a lot. Very interesting setup. I wanted to find a solution with a iconnecting audio 4+. That do a lot of the mixer and for recording in an pc or ipad.
I'm using the retrokit rk-002 for the sample (and Kaossilator pro (as Synth)), and a zoom R16 mixer with recording function. I have learned something about your powersolutions from you. I have only volca sample, but some other devices. I solve the problem with the ground loop in other way. My solution is to use Usb batterys with 5volt to 9volt converter.
Then there is no hum from the power, and it runs long enought . (🙂)
I filter my midi signal with the iconnectivity., but it is much more complicated. ( but integrated) in the ica4+)
The midisolution midithru filter is much more uncomplicated. And costs not so many.
I have thinked about the rk-004 but it is not so cheap. Could be very nice, but i do not need it really. 😉 ( Yeah, optimised text - hope less gramatic and logic errors ;-)
Frank Ramrath : Hi Frank, it’s cool to hear you have a similar setup! Yeah I pretty quickly got annoyed with having to change the batteries all the time, so I’m happy with the current solution. :)
My time (at the moment) is limited, and i have to change the reloadable batteries every one or two weeks, so that it is no problem. And with big USB Battereis and 5Volt to 9Volt converters it is no problem. So i have batteries in only 3 devices. And the Keystep has a normal powerport. Thats great. :-)
re: Arturia Keystep sending Play/Stop messages to everything -- there is a parameter in Arturia MIDI Control Center to disable that. Unfortunately the current firmware has a bug and it currently can't be disabled.
I talked with Arturia Support just a few days ago about that and they said they are going to fix that in a new version of firmware.
Timur Batyrshin : Oh that would be great, thanks for the info! Maybe you can leave another comment once the update has been released? :)
@@SlenterendeBeersure, if they release it soonish. If that takes them several months I'm afraid I will forget about this comment by that time.
I just realized this could work even now if you are using Keystep as slave device: try setting "Transport Mode" in MIDI Control Center to "Off" instead of "MIDI".
It doesn't work when Keystep is master clock but I didn't check if it works in other scenarios.
Timur Batyrshin : Okay, does that mean you have to connect another device to the MIDI IN of the Keystep?
@@SlenterendeBeer you are already using beatstep pro for that, if I got your question right
Great setup and clear explanation. I'm currently putting together a similar Volca-centred setup. I have a Volca Bass and Drum and an Arturia Beatstep (not the Pro though :/ ). I've just ordered a Conductive Labs NDLR as the arpeggiator/sequencer/MIDI brain for the rig. I shall be using a 0-Coast and Mini Brute too in the rig, just need to get a poly-synth or two - probably a Volca Keys and an FM (or maybe just a second Keys and poly-chain the lot). May still need a MIDI controller so your explanation of using the Beatstep into the Keystep is very useful, and I'm pretty sure I can filter out the Start/Stop messages in the NDLR somehow.
Wow what an amazing video well done guys brilliant editing and incredibly informative!!👍👍👍😎😎😎😎
Thanks Jonny! :)
Would all of this be possible but replacing beatstep with a Push 2 and Ableton effects - with audio out into a soundcard?
In your opinion, how's the Zoom MS70CDR
Additionally I have a question about the KEYSTEP. I can't get the arpeggiator and sequencer to work. Right now its receiving Sync In from the Volca's (last one in the cable series) and sending MIDI to a Volca Keys. Perhaps it is because I am not sending MIDI CLOCK to everything? I can play the Keys which is already a great upgrade from playing the tiny glass buttons. Thnx for any reply!
Peter Oosterloo : Hoi Peter. Make sure you’ve set the Keystep’s dip switches to “sync”. We’ve stopped using the sync cables and instead use MIDI for everything. You would need a MIDI splitter (or MIDI thru box) to connect all Volcas to MIDI. Hope that helps! :)
Thanks so much to you this was so Informative and easy to understand
It really cleared up some things about midi
jack doyle : That’s great to hear! :)
Eindelijk een Nederlander die niet met zo'n nederlands engels accent praat