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design.md

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Ensoniq Mirage Controller Design

Objectives

The controller will:

  • Enable real-time MIDI interaction with the Ensoniq Mirage.
  • Allow playback and sequencing of MIDI files for pre-recorded tracks.
  • Optionally include tools for MIDI message customization and dynamic performance controls.

Features

1. Real-Time MIDI Control

  • Purpose: To play and tweak Mirage parameters live.
  • Requirements:
    • Low-latency MIDI communication.
    • Support for sending custom CC (Control Change) messages for tweaking filters, pitch, and modulation.
    • Integration with physical knobs/sliders (if hardware is used).
  • Implementation:
    • Use python-rtmidi for real-time MIDI communication.
    • Create custom mappings for Mirage's CC messages.

2. MIDI File Playback

  • Purpose: To send pre-sequenced MIDI data to the Mirage.
  • Requirements:
    • Ability to read and send MIDI files.
    • Option to loop or chain multiple MIDI files.
  • Implementation:
    • Use Mido for reading and sending MIDI files.
    • Implement basic transport controls (play, pause, stop).

3. Sequencer Integration

  • Purpose: To enable on-the-fly sequencing or step programming.
  • Requirements:
    • Record real-time input into MIDI files.
    • Step-based sequencing for creating patterns.
  • Implementation:
    • Use midiutil for MIDI file creation.

4. Advanced MIDI Manipulation (Optional)

  • Purpose: For musicians who want more creative tools.
  • Requirements:
    • Transpose, quantize, or randomize MIDI notes.
    • Map velocity curves to suit Mirage's response.
  • Implementation:
    • Integrate pretty_midi for advanced MIDI analysis and processing.

5. User Interface

  • Purpose: To make the controller user-friendly.
  • Options:
    • Graphical: Create a GUI using PySide6 or PyQt6.
    • Command-Line: Provide text-based commands for lightweight setups.
    • Hardware: Map MIDI commands to physical controllers like MIDI keyboards or knobs.
  • Implementation:
    • GUI: Design simple buttons/sliders for interaction.
    • Hardware: Use python-rtmidi for real-time control via MIDI controllers.

Architecture

  1. Input Module

    • Real-time input from MIDI controllers (via python-rtmidi).
    • Pre-recorded MIDI file loading (via Mido).

  2. Processing Module

    • Manipulate MIDI data for creative effects (transpose, randomize).
    • Sequence MIDI events for live playback or file creation.

  3. Output Module

    • Send processed MIDI data to Mirage (via python-rtmidi).
    • Save new MIDI sequences (via midiutil).

  4. User Interface Module

    • CLI for basic commands.
    • Optional GUI for intuitive controls.

Example Workflow

  1. Real-Time Playing:

    • Connect Mirage to controller via MIDI.
    • Use knobs/sliders or a GUI to send CC messages to adjust sound parameters in real time.

  2. MIDI File Playback:

    • Load a MIDI file into the controller.
    • Play the file, and the Mirage will output the corresponding sounds.

  3. Step Sequencing:

    • Create a pattern using the sequencer.
    • Send the sequence to the Mirage for playback or save it as a MIDI file.

  4. Advanced Manipulation:

    • Load a MIDI file for editing.
    • Apply transposition or quantization.
    • Save the modified file for future use.

Tools and Libraries

Library Use Case
python-rtmidi Real-time MIDI communication
Mido MIDI file playback and message creation
midiutil MIDI file creation and sequencing
pretty_midi Advanced MIDI processing and analysis
PySide6 or PyQt6 GUI development for an intuitive user interface

Next Steps

  1. Set up a Python project with the necessary libraries.
  2. Implement real-time MIDI communication as a foundation.
  3. Expand functionality for MIDI file playback and sequencing.
  4. Optionally develop a GUI for user-friendly operation.

Let me know if you'd like detailed implementation code or further refinements!