PAINTAUDIO MIDI Captain DUO Foot Controller Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The PAINTAUDIO MIDI Captain DUO is a versatile foot controller designed to enhance your musical setup by providing comprehensive MIDI and USB control. This device allows seamless interaction with multi-effects processors, keyboards, synthesizers, Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs), and other software, offering flexible command sending and customizable control options.

Figure 1: The PAINTAUDIO MIDI Captain DUO Foot Controller. This compact device features two footswitches and a central display, designed for robust performance and versatile control.

2. What's in the Box

• MIDI Captain DUO Foot Controller
• USB-A to USB-C Cable
• MIDI Cable (5-pin DIN to 3.5mm TRS)
• User Manual (this document)

Figure 2: Included accessories with the MIDI Captain DUO, showing the controller, USB cable, and MIDI cable.

3. Product Overview

The MIDI Captain DUO features a robust metal body with two programmable footswitches, each surrounded by RGB LEDs for visual feedback. A central display shows current settings and commands. Connectivity includes USB-C for power and data, and a MIDI OUT port.

Figure 3: Various views of the MIDI Captain DUO, highlighting the footswitches, display, USB-C port, and MIDI OUT. Dip switches for mode selection are visible on the side.

Key Features:

• Two Multi-function Switches: Programmable to send single or multiple MIDI commands per press.
• Mixed Command Sending: Capable of mixing multiple MIDI channels and various MIDI command types (PC/CC/NOTE).
• Various Switch Trigger Timings: Configure commands to send on press, release, hold down, or at multiple timings.
• USB-MIDI Support: Control DAW software, synthesizers, and effects software on a computer.
• USB-HID Support: Simulate keyboard keys or mouse clicks for mixed control.
• Multi-state Switch Cycling: Send different commands or sets with multiple presses, enabling complex control sequences with a single switch.
• Multiple Configurations with Mode Select: Four predefined button function configurations can be switched via MODE switches.
• Compact and Durable Design: Lightweight, sturdy metal body, and durable footswitch design.
• Multiple Power Supply Methods: Powered via USB cable or standard pedal power adapter.

4. Setup and Connectivity

The MIDI Captain DUO offers flexible connectivity options for various setups.

Powering the Device:

• USB Power: Connect the device to a computer or USB power adapter using the provided USB-C cable.
• DC Power Adapter: Use a standard 9V pedal power adapter (not included). The device supports 5-12V, polarity-free power input.

MIDI Connections:

• USB-MIDI: Connect the USB-C port to your computer to control DAW software, virtual instruments, and effects plugins.
• MIDI OUT: Use the 3.5mm TRS MIDI OUT port to connect to hardware MIDI devices. A compatible MIDI cable is included.

Figure 4: Diagram illustrating the various interfaces of the MIDI Captain DUO, including USB-C, MIDI OUT, and power input.

Wireless Control:

For wireless MIDI control, the MIDI Captain DUO can be paired with a MIDI MATE Wireless Adapter (sold separately). This allows for untethered control of your MIDI devices.

Video 1: Demonstration of MIDI CAPTAIN PC/CC/NOTE control and Time Engine with MIDI MATE wireless adapter. This video illustrates how to send various MIDI commands and utilize the Time Engine feature, including wireless connectivity.

5. Configuration and Programming

The MIDI Captain DUO is highly customizable through text-based configuration files accessed via USB.

USB Setup Mode:

1. Hold down the KEY0 button (bottom footswitch).
2. Connect the USB cable to your computer (Windows or Mac).
3. A disk named "MIDICAPTAIN" will appear on your computer.
4. Navigate to the 'setup' folder to access configuration files (e.g., `key0.txt`, `GlobalSetup.txt`).

Figure 5: Instructions for entering USB Setup Mode, showing the controller connected to a computer and the file directory.

For detailed configuration instructions, refer to the official Super Mode User Guide PDF: Super Mode User Guide.

Super Mode Control:

The Super Mode firmware allows for highly flexible control, integrating multi-state buttons, multi-command MIDI combinations, and USB-HID simulation. You can define actions for different trigger timings:

• Short Pressing Down
• Short Releasing Up
• Still Holding
• Long Releasing Up

Each footswitch can be configured with up to 9 keytimes (press states) to send different commands or command sets, enabling complex control sequences with a single switch.

Figure 6: Visual representation of the Super Mode's four action types and keytimes loop, demonstrating advanced configuration capabilities.

6. Operating Instructions

Multi-function Switch:

The two footswitches can be programmed to send various MIDI commands. This includes Program Change (PC), Control Change (CC), and Note messages. You can also combine multiple commands to be sent simultaneously.

Figure 7: Illustration of the diverse capabilities of the footswitches, including sending PC/CC/NOTE/USB HID commands, multi-combination commands, and commands at various trigger moments.

USB-HID Support:

The MIDI Captain DUO can simulate common keyboard keys or mouse clicks, allowing for mixed control of USB HID and MIDI. This is useful for controlling computer applications that do not directly support MIDI input.

Figure 8: Examples of keyboard and mouse functions that can be simulated using the USB-HID support, such as arrow keys, play/pause, and gaming controls.

Time Engine Automation:

The Time Engine feature allows you to record switching actions along with a backing track. This enables automated switching assistance during live performances or practice sessions.

Video 2: Demonstration of MIDI CAPTAIN PC/CC/NOTE control and Time Engine with MIDI MATE wireless adapter. This video illustrates how to send various MIDI commands and utilize the Time Engine feature, including wireless connectivity.

7. Compatibility

The MIDI Captain DUO is designed to be compatible with a wide range of musical equipment and software.

• Hardware: Multi-effects processors (e.g., Boss GT-1000 Core, Line 6 HX Stomp, Neural DSP Quad Cortex), synthesizers, keyboards, and any device with MIDI IN.
• Software: Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) like Ableton Live, Logic Pro, Cubase, and various VST/AU plugins.
• Operating Systems: Windows, macOS, Linux.

Figure 9: The MIDI Captain DUO shown alongside various compatible devices, including multi-effects units, laptops, and other MIDI-enabled gear.

Video 3: Demonstration of controlling a Boss GT-1000 Core with the MIDI Captain, showcasing how to manage presets and effects modules.

8. Troubleshooting

• Device Not Recognized in USB Setup Mode: Ensure the KEY0 button is held down *before* connecting the USB cable. Try a different USB cable.
• MIDI Commands Not Working:
  • Verify MIDI channel settings on both the MIDI Captain DUO and the target device.
  • Check that the correct MIDI command type (PC, CC, Note) and values are configured in the text files.
  • For CC commands, ensure the target device's CC mode (e.g., Momentary vs. Toggle) matches the MIDI Captain's output.
• Power Issues: If using a DC adapter, ensure it meets the 5-12V requirement. If using USB, try a different USB port or power source.
• Firmware Updates: Periodically check the PAINTAUDIO website for firmware updates, which may resolve bugs or add new features.

9. Specifications

10. Warranty and Support

PAINTAUDIO products are designed for durability and performance. For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official PAINTAUDIO website or contact customer service directly. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.