Midi Bass Technology
The Midi Bass consistently provides highly accurate, low latency MIDI tracking, at approximately 5mS for fixed velocity tracking; and typically 8mS for dynamic velocity tracking on all notes. When we refer to the latency of the Midi Bass here, we are specifically referring to the time it takes for the Midi Bass to analyse and output MIDI data. To gain some perspective, consider that sound travels through air at one foot per millisecond, so an additional 8 milliseconds of latency is akin to standing 8 feet further away from your speaker cabinet.
The performance of the Industrial Radio Midi Bass is made possible by the unique, wired-fret approach to MIDI tracking. This system utilises multiple sensors integrated into the bass which include the wired-fret neck construction, tension sensing bridge pieces, and piezo bridge saddle pickups.
Sensor Overview
When you play the Midi Bass, the onboard electronic sensors detect that you are playing, and generate a parallel stream of MIDI data that mirrors your actual bass performance. The fret-sensing fingerboard tells the Midi Bass what note you are playing, strain gauges in the bridge measure string bends, and the piezo bridge saddle pickups measure the dynamics of the string. The Midi Bass continually monitors all these sensors and translates your playing to MIDI.
Basic MIDI messages are comprised of note on, note off, note number, velocity/dynamics and pitch wheel. The Midi Bass' computer constructs the midi output messages from its sensors in the following manner:
- Wired Frets = MIDI note number
- Bridge Strain Gauge = Midi Pitch wheel
- Piezo pickups = MIDI note on, MIDI note off and velocity/dynamics
Fret Sensing Fingerboard
Each fret is split / electrically isolated into 4 seperate fret segments and is wired with an array of resistors. The fret segments tell the bass where you are fretting the string.
Tension Sensing Bridge
The Midi Bass bridge is comprisied of 4 individual pieces. These bridges are constructed of a spring steel that allows for a small amount of flex. An electronic sensor called a strain gauge is fitted on the back of the bridge pieces. These sensors measure the tension in the bass strings. From this tension information the pitch bend of the string can be accurately calculated.
Piezo Bridge Saddles
The Midi Bass uses Graph Tech "Ghost" piezo saddles. The output of the piezos are then processed by special, low frequency pre-amps. This results in a very distinct transient voltage output. The dynamic pressure of your fingers on the strings is actually monitored.
