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Understanding MIDI Specifications: The Foundation of Digital Music Communication

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The MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) specifications serve as the essential framework that enables electronic musical instruments, computers, and other related devices to communicate and synchronize with each other. Developed to create a universal standard, these specifications define the messages, commands, and protocols that allow devices from different manufacturers to work together seamlessly. The MIDI Association maintains and publishes these specifications, ensuring compatibility and innovation across the music technology industry. From basic note-on/note-off messages to advanced control protocols like MIDI 2.0, the specifications cover a wide range of use cases—from performance and production to lighting and automation. Understanding MIDI specifications is crucial for developers, musicians, and engineers who aim to integrate or build MIDI-compatible tools and systems in today’s interconnected musical ecosystem.

This topic was modified 1 month ago by Inam Khan
 
Posted : 30/06/2025 7:16 pm
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Is there a consolidated list of Spec documents referenced by title *and* code (e.g., MMA RP-021) from which members can directly download?

For instance, the doc entitled "Common Rules for MIDI-CI Profiles" is also known as M2-102-U.  Within it, there's mention of "MMA RP-021" but no title given.  I've found "RP-020" but not "RP-021" after navigating through each subsection beneath https://midi.org/specs

Ideally, there would be a single .zip (or .tar.xz) file with everything in a single bundle.

Does anything like this exist?

 
Posted : 26/07/2025 10:40 am
Bavi_H
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I don't know of a list of all the document numbers, that would be useful. But here is RP21: Sound Controller Defaults (Revised).

 
Posted : 01/08/2025 1:37 am
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