BR-8 MIDI question -help!

Roger Andrusky · Post by **Roger Andrusky** » 13 Nov 2003 5:01 am

I have a BR-8 and I would like to synchronize it with a synthisizer. I assume I can use the MIDI control since both pieces have MIDI capability.

I have read the confusing and incomplete manuals from cover to cover and I don't get it! How in the world do I send the synth a command to start the auto-rhythm when I start the BR-8? This is really driving me nuts! Roland is no help at all, either. Thanks in advance - Roger

Michael Holland · Post by **Michael Holland** » 13 Nov 2003 6:14 am

If your keyboard responds to MIDI sync or MIDI time code you should be able to do this. Set the keyboard as 'slave' so it will respond to incoming commands. I don't have a BR-8, but the VS series has choices of internal or external sync and in this case you'd use internal. Connect MIDI out on the BR-8 to MIDI in on the keyboard.

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Earl Foote · Post by **Earl Foote** » 13 Nov 2003 8:16 am

Hey Roger,

I can't remember off the top of my head, but there is a setting that you need to make on the BR-8 in order to do this. When I get home to my machine this evening I will post what to do.

Earl Foote · Post by **Earl Foote** » 13 Nov 2003 5:12 pm

First you have to set up the Tempo Map. The Tempo Map lets you set the tempo, time signature, and measure number. You can set multiple tempo changes in the song and the measure that they are to take place. The instructions for setting up the Tempo Map are on page 70 of the manual.

After you set up the Tempo Map, you must set the Sync mode. You can use MMC which is Midi Machine Control or Midi Clock. MMC lets you control start/stop, rewind, etc form your BR-8. Midi Clock just controls Start/stop. Instructions for setting up Sync are on page 73.

After setting the Tempo Map and Sync, your synth should sync up to your BR-8. If your still having problems, make sure you have set your synth up to sync up with external midi devices.

A good forum for the BR-8 and other Roland/Boss recorders is on The VS Planet. The SGF is a great place but I don't think very many steelers are using the BR-8. I don't think bOb will mind me mentioning the VS planet, He appeared on one of thier compilation CDs with a tune called The Courtship. (good tune bOb)

If you have any specific questions, you can send a message to my profile address.

Tony Prior · Post by **Tony Prior** » 14 Nov 2003 3:58 pm

I own and use a BR8 often and have controlled my Alesis drum machine with the tempo map and synch settings as Roger clearly explained. For the most part the midi setups are very similar and common for all MIDI units. They may use a different buzz word but at the end of the day they all do the same thing, send or receive.

My newest machine , Yamaha AW2816, actually shows a MIDI diagram flow chart on the display when you press the Midi key so you can see a virtual connection..you can make your selections and see things happen.This is pretty wild...

The Roland VS planet forums are also excellent, although there are not many hanging out in the BR8 forum anymore..I guess they all stepped up.

Long Live the BR8 ! It's a great little tool...I thought about selling mine but I decided not to ..The COSM effects are excellent and I use them often.

good luck
T