Introduction
The MeloAudio MIDI Commander is a full-featured MIDI foot controller designed to provide guitarists with extensive flexibility and control over their MIDI-compatible devices. It serves as a universal language interface, allowing communication between various electronic devices from different manufacturers. This controller is compatible with all MIDI-controlled devices, including audio interfaces, guitar amplifiers, and racks equipped with a MIDI-IN port. With ten foot switches and two expression pedal inputs, it meets the demands of professional musicians, offering ease-of-use and rugged reliability.
The MIDI Commander also supports USB-MIDI converter functionality, enabling control over most software effects and applications on Windows, Mac OS, and iOS platforms. It can connect up to two expression pedals simultaneously for volume and wah control. The ten onboard metal foot switches and optimized Host mode facilitate straightforward operation without complex additional settings. A clear OLED screen displays all necessary information, readable in various lighting conditions. Power is supplied via two AAA batteries, a USB adapter, or an OTG cable, making it compact, lightweight, and roadworthy.
Key Features
- USB MIDI controller and stand-alone MIDI controller functionality.
- Ten durable foot switches for enhanced control.
- Two expression pedal jacks for simultaneous volume and wah control.
- Eight pre-configured Host presets for popular software including JamUP, Bias Fx, Guitar Rig, MainStage, Ampkit, Revalver, AmpliTube, POD Farm, Mobile POD, Overloud TH, AXE FX3, and Line6 HX Stomp.
- Two customizable modes for specific Program Change (PC) or Control Change (CC) commands.
- Supports up to 40 hours of operation using two AAA batteries.
- On-board charging function for rechargeable batteries.
- Compatible with iPhone, iPad, iPod, Macbook, Android, Windows, AXE FX, VAMP Pro, MARSHALL AMP, Eventide H9, GT PRO, Timeline, H&K AMP, Keyboard, Eleven Rack, KPA, POD 2.0/XT.
- OLED screen for displaying USB MIDI State, Battery State, PC number, CC#, and Expression Pedal positions.
Image: The MIDI Commander unit with a list of its key features.
Setup and Connections
The MIDI Commander offers versatile connectivity options for various setups.
Power Supply
- AAA Batteries: Insert two AAA batteries into the battery compartment on the back of the unit. The device supports up to 40 hours of playing time with batteries.
- USB Power: Connect the MIDI Commander to a USB power adapter or a computer via the USB-B cable. This also enables the on-board charging function for rechargeable NiMH batteries.
- OTG Cable: For mobile devices, an OTG cable can be used for power and data transfer.
Note: If using normal (non-rechargeable) batteries, do not use the charging function. For rechargeable NiMH batteries, connect via USB and press and hold the "UP" button to activate charging mode.
Image: Illustration of the two power modes: USB power supply and AAA battery compartment.
Connecting to Devices
- MIDI OUT: Use a standard MIDI cable to connect the MIDI OUT port (3) on the MIDI Commander to the MIDI IN port of your audio interface, guitar amp, or rack unit.
- USB: Connect the USB port (2) to your computer (Mac/PC) or iOS/Android device using the provided USB-B cable. This enables USB-MIDI control for software effects and applications.
- Expression Pedals: Connect up to two expression pedals to the EXP1 (5) and EXP2 (6) jacks for controlling parameters like volume and wah.
Image: Detailed diagram illustrating all connectors and foot switch labels on the MIDI Commander.
Image: Examples of wide compatibility, showing the MIDI Commander connected to a Kemper Profiler (KPA), Axe-Fx II, an audio interface, and a guitar speaker/computer setup.
Image: Close-up view highlighting the two expression pedal input jacks (EXP1 and EXP2) on the MIDI Commander.
Operating the MIDI Commander
The MIDI Commander is designed for intuitive operation with its various modes and presets.
Control Modes
- Standard MIDI Control: Utilizes the 5-pin MIDI OUT port to send MIDI messages to hardware devices.
- USB-MIDI Control: Connects via USB to a computer or mobile device to control software applications.
Image: Visual representation of the two primary control modes: Standard MIDI Controller and USB MIDI Controller.
Host Presets and Custom Modes
The MIDI Commander features 8 Host presets optimized for popular effect software. To access these, press and hold a specific foot switch (1-D) during power-on to enter different Host modes.
- Pre-configured Host Modes: JAMP, BIFX, KMPA, AXEF, ATOM, PC-8x.
- Custom Modes: CUS-1, CUS-2 allow for personalized configuration of Program Change (PC) or Control Change (CC) commands.
Image: Display of the 8 available preset modes, including JAMP, BIFX, KMPA, AXEF, ATOM, PC-8x, CUS-1, and CUS-2.
Navigation
- Use the Previous Bank (7) and Next Bank (8) foot switches to navigate through banks of presets.
- Foot switches A-D (9) and 1-4 (10) are primarily used for setting CC# or PC Control, depending on the selected mode.
- The OLED screen (11) provides real-time feedback on the current USB MIDI State, Battery State, PC number, CC#, and Expression Pedal positions.
Compatibility
The MeloAudio MIDI Commander is designed for broad compatibility with various hardware and software.
Supported Software Effects / Apps:
- JamUP (iOS)
- Bias FX (iOS/Windows/Mac)
- Bias (iOS/Windows/Mac)
- Guitar Rig (Windows/Mac)
- MainStage
- Ampkit (iOS/Mac)
- Revalver (Windows/Mac)
- AmpliTube (iOS/Windows/Mac/Android)
- POD Farm (Windows/Mac)
- Mobile POD (iOS)
- Overloud TH (Windows/Mac)
- AXE FX3
- Line6 HX Stomp
Image: A visual list of commonly used effect software compatible with the MIDI Commander.
Compatible Hardware Devices:
- Audio Interfaces with MIDI-IN port
- Guitar Amps with MIDI-IN port
- Rack Units with MIDI-IN port
- iPhone, iPad, iPod, Macbook
- Android devices
- Windows PCs
- AXE FX, VAMP Pro, MARSHALL AMP, Eventide H9, GT PRO, Timeline, H&K AMP, Keyboard, Eleven Rack, KPA, POD 2.0/XT.
Maintenance and Firmware Updates
To ensure optimal performance and access to the latest features, regular maintenance and firmware updates are recommended.
General Care:
- Keep the unit clean and free from dust and debris.
- Avoid exposing the unit to extreme temperatures or moisture.
- Ensure proper ventilation when in use.
Firmware Updates:
MeloAudio periodically releases firmware updates to improve functionality, fix bugs, and add new features. Key updates include:
- 'SCENE MODE' Firmware: Specifically designed for AXE FX3 users, this mode is suitable for effect host machines with different scene or snapshot selections under current presets.
- Line6 HX Stomp Compatibility: The first Host mode "JAMP" was changed to "HXstp" to better match the Line6 HX Stomp.
- Freeze Fixed: Updated programs address occasional freezing issues, providing a more stable and smooth user experience.
- Personalized Customization: Includes functions like ALL CC # MODE and BANK 3X MODE for greater user control.
Firmware updates can be unlocked and downloaded from the official MeloAudio website's manual page. Refer to the website for detailed instructions on how to perform firmware updates.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your MIDI Commander, please refer to the following common solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Unit does not power on. | Low or dead batteries; USB cable not connected or faulty. | Replace AAA batteries or ensure USB power source is active and cable is securely connected. |
| MIDI commands not recognized by device/software. | Incorrect MIDI connection (IN/OUT); incorrect Host mode selected; software MIDI settings misconfigured. | Verify MIDI cable connections. Ensure the correct Host mode is selected on the MIDI Commander. Check MIDI input settings within your software/device. |
| Unit freezes or becomes unresponsive. | Occasional software glitch; outdated firmware. | Restart the MIDI Commander. Check the official website for the latest firmware updates, as "Freeze Fixed" updates have been released. |
| Expression pedal not working. | Incorrect pedal type; loose connection; software parameter not assigned. | Ensure the expression pedal is compatible and securely plugged into EXP1 or EXP2. Verify that the parameter is correctly assigned in your software/device. |
| Rechargeable batteries not charging. | Not NiMH batteries; charging mode not activated. | Ensure you are using NiMH rechargeable batteries. Connect via USB and press and hold the "UP" button to activate charging mode. |
Specifications
- Model Number: MA1010
- Item Weight: 3.16 pounds (1.43 kg)
- Product Dimensions: 11.3"W x 4.3"D x 1.6"H (28.6 x 11 x 4 cm)
- Compatible Devices: Smartphone, Tablet, PC/Mac, iOS, Android, various MIDI-enabled audio equipment.
- Connector Type: USB, MIDI (5-pin DIN)
- Hardware Interface: USB
- Supported Software: MIDI compatible software (e.g., JamUP, Bias FX, Guitar Rig, AmpliTube)
- Power Supply: 2 x AAA batteries (not included), USB Power Adapter, OTG cable.
- Special Feature: Portable
What's in the Box
- 1 x MeloAudio MIDI Commander Controller
- 1 x MIDI Cable
- 1 x USB-B Cable
- 1 x Guitar Pick
Official Product Video
Video: An official product video demonstrating the features and compatibility of the MeloAudio MIDI Commander. It highlights its use with various MIDI-controlled devices and software, showcasing its versatility for guitarists.
Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or further assistance, please visit the official MeloAudio website or contact their customer service. The official website is also the source for the latest firmware updates and detailed user guides.
You can find more information and support resources by visiting the MeloAudio Store on Amazon.