littleBits - Wire Bits: MIDI

Part of the series littleBits Wire Bits.

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With the MIDI Bit, you can control your circuits and Synth Kit Bits from MIDI-enabled instruments and computer software! Send and receive MIDI messages, create your own MIDI controller with other Bits like the keyboard, and control Synth Kit Bits with software like Ableton Live, Logic, and Pro Tools.

Includes: MIDI Bit, MIDI adapter cable + micro USB cable.

How It Works

The MIDI Bit functions by acting as a MIDI-to-voltage converter ("MIDI in" mode) and a voltage-to-MIDI converter ("MIDI out" mode). The MIDI Bit will show up in your DAW as a MIDI device. The note range of the Bit is from C2 to C6. MIDI note C2 generates an output CV of 0.2V. Thereafter, the output CV increases by 1V/oct up to C6.

Similar to the keyboard and micro sequencer Bits, the Bit has 2 outputs: A main bitSnap output that sends control voltages to other Bits (for instance, an oscillator) depending on which key is pressed and a "trigger out" output that sends a 5V, HIGH signal out to Bits (for instance, an i33 envelope) when any MIDI note message is sent.

Like with the keyboard Bit, the oscillator Bits will need to be tuned to play the correct pitches. See the "Tuning" invention in the Synth Kit booklet for more information. To help with tuning, standard digital instrument tuners can be used and there are many tuner apps available for smartphones.