Can you use a MIDI controller on a phone?

What is MIDI?

MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) is a technical standard that describes a protocol, digital interface, and connectors that enables a wide variety of electronic musical instruments, computers, and other equipment to connect and communicate with one another (Midi Definition & Meaning).

The MIDI specification was invented by music manufacturers in the early 1980s to allow different electronic instruments like synthesizers, drum machines, sequencers, and more, to communicate with each other and with computers (MIDI definition in American English). This allows MIDI devices to control one another, synchronize with each other, and exchange musical data like notes, tempo, vibrato, panning, and clock signals.

MIDI messages communicate musical performance data like which note is played, for how long, how loud, and with what kind of expression. There are several types of MIDI messages that encode different kinds of musical data:

Note on/note off messages – trigger and stop notes
Velocity messages – determine loudness of notes
Control change messages – communicate controller data like sustain pedal, modulation, volume

Program change messages – select sounds/patches on a synthesizer
Pitch bend messages – apply pitch shifts

This digital language of music performance data allowed various instruments to synchronize with each other and be controlled from a central sequencer or computer, revolutionizing music production.

MIDI Controller Basics

A MIDI controller is a device that generates and transmits MIDI data to other devices, usually to control or play other MIDI-compatible hardware or software. As defined by the MIDI Manufacturers Association, “A MIDI controller is any piece of equipment that generates and transmits MIDI data to MIDI-compatible devices.”

There are several types of MIDI controllers:

Keyboard controllers – These resemble traditional piano keyboards and allow you to play notes and chords. Popular options include 25, 49, 61, or 88-key models.

Pad controllers – These consist of a grid of touch-sensitive rubber pads that you can tap or strike like drum pads. They are good for finger drumming and triggering samples or clips.
Wind controllers – These are played like woodwind instruments, with mouthpieces, blow sensitivity, and sometimes keys. They capture your breathing to shape MIDI expression.
Guitar/bass controllers – These have strings and frets like their traditional counterparts but convert playing into MIDI signals.

DJ controllers – Optimized for DJ applications, these include jog wheels, faders, buttons, and knobs to control DJ software.

The MIDI data transmitted by controllers includes note on/off messages, continuous controller signals (CC), patch changes, and other performance data like pitch bend, mod wheel, sustain, and expression. This lets you shape the sound in expressive ways when using a virtual instrument or other MIDI device.

Connect a Controller to a Phone

To use a MIDI controller with a phone, the phone needs a way to receive MIDI input, usually via USB. Here are a few options for connecting a MIDI controller to a phone:

Using a USB to MIDI adapter or cable. Many MIDI controllers have a standard 5-pin DIN MIDI output. To connect this to a phone, you need a MIDI to USB converter. There are USB host mode cables and adapters such as the iRig MIDI 2 that allow you to plug a MIDI device into your phone’s USB port.

Using a wireless MIDI adapter. Devices like the Yamaha MD-BT01 transmit MIDI over Bluetooth so you can connect to your phone wirelessly. This gives you freedom of movement when using a MIDI controller with your phone.

Using an audio interface with MIDI input. Some audio interfaces like the iRig Pro Duo have a MIDI input port in addition to audio. This allows you to connect both a MIDI controller and a microphone for mobile music production.

The key is finding an adapter that is compatible with your phone. Make sure any devices you use support USB host mode and are designed to connect MIDI controllers to smartphones and tablets specifically.

MIDI Apps for Phones

There are a variety of MIDI apps available for Android and iOS devices that allow you to use a MIDI controller. Here’s an overview of some popular options:

GarageBand – Apple’s free DAW allows you to connect MIDI controllers and comes with a variety of built-in instruments and loops. It has a user-friendly interface optimized for mobile devices.

Caustic – This affordable DAW app has built-in synthesizers and samplers. You can use MIDI controllers to play internal instruments or sequence external synths.

FL Studio Mobile – Image-Line’s mobile version of their popular FL Studio DAW allows MIDI sequencing and controller integration. The instruments are somewhat limited compared to the desktop version.

In addition to full DAW apps, there are many MIDI sequencers, synthesizers, and controller apps that accept MIDI input. For example, Korg Gadget 2 is a collection of mini-synths and drum machines that you can sequence and layer. Synth One is a customizable analog-style synth.

When selecting a mobile MIDI app, consider if you want built-in sounds or plan to sequence external gear. Also look for an intuitive workflow optimized for mobile screens and full MIDI controller support. Test latency and responsiveness before purchasing.

Latency Considerations

One big challenge when using MIDI controllers with phones is latency – the delay between pressing a key on a keyboard and hearing the sound. Latency is caused by a number of factors: the wireless connection between the controller and phone, the audio engine and drivers on the phone OS, and the app’s own audio buffer settings. Here are some tips for reducing latency when using MIDI controllers with mobile devices:

Using a wired connection via USB OTG or MIDI can greatly reduce latency compared to wireless Bluetooth. The wired connection provides faster, more reliable data transfer between the controller and phone. See this Hacker News post for more details on wired vs wireless latency.

Adjusting audio driver settings on the phone can help – turning off power saving modes, reducing buffer sizes, and increasing sample rates. However, mobile OSes like iOS and Android often limit access to lower level audio settings. Apps may provide some audio tweaks to reduce latency.

Lastly, some MIDI controller apps provide better latency optimization than others, so experiment to find the ones that work best for your setup. For example, paid pro audio apps tend to have more latency reduction features compared to free apps.

Use Cases and Examples

Connecting a MIDI controller to a smartphone opens up many possibilities for musicians, DJs, and teachers on the go:

Producing music on the go – With a MIDI keyboard or drum pad controller, you can start a song idea or work on productions anywhere inspiration strikes. Add a portable battery pack and you have a powerful mobile music studio.

Controlling instruments and effects live – MIDI controllers allow you to shape sound in real-time during live performances. You can change synth patches, trigger samples, apply effects, and more.

Mobile DJ setups – DJ apps with MIDI connectivity turn your phone into a central hub for mixing tracks and triggering loops, samples, and effects using compact controllers.

Teaching piano/guitar with MIDI controller and phone – Music teachers can use a MIDI keyboard and educational apps to instruct students on piano, guitar, drums, and more using just a phone and compact controller.

Limitations to Consider

Using a MIDI controller with a phone does come with some limitations to keep in mind:

Small screens are not ideal for complex projects. The limited screen real estate on phones can make it challenging to view and control multiple tracks and parameters compared to a desktop setup. This is especially true for controllers with large grids of pads and knobs.1

Limited processing power is another constraint. While phones have gotten more powerful, they still lag behind desktops and laptops. Running multiple virtual instruments and effects can tax a phone’s CPU and limit polyphony.2

You need specialized apps and hardware. To use a MIDI controller, you’ll need a compatible app with MIDI support, along with cables or wireless connectivity between the controller and phone. The phone will also need to support the connection type, like USB-C or Bluetooth MIDI.

Best Controllers for Mobile Use

When selecting a MIDI controller to use with your phone, there are several factors to consider:

If portability is your priority, look for lightweight controllers that run off battery power and can easily fit into a backpack. Popular portable options include the Akai MPK Mini and the Korg MicroKey Air. These mini keyboards connect via Bluetooth or USB and weigh around 1-2 pounds.

The iOS vs Android debate comes into play here as well. Make sure any controller you select works with your phone’s operating system. iOS keyboards like the CME WIDI Master are seamlessly compatible with iPhones and iPads. Android users have options like the ICONNECT MIDI keyboards.

You’ll also want to decide between budget-friendly controllers versus more advanced pro gear. Beginners can start with ultra-affordable picks like the Korg MicroKey line or the Akai LPK25 under $100. Professional musicians might look at premium controllers like the Roli Seaboard Block or ROLI Songmaker Kit with advanced expressive capabilities.

Selecting the right mobile MIDI controller involves balancing portability, compatibility, features and budget for your needs. With some research, you can find an excellent portable option to unleash your creativity on the go.

The Future of Mobile MIDI

As mobile technology continues to advance rapidly, we can expect to see improvements and new developments for using MIDI controllers with phones and tablets. Some key trends to anticipate include:

Expectations for improved wireless connectivity – Bluetooth MIDI support has improved over the years, but there are still occasional connectivity issues and latency. We may see new wireless protocols emerge that offer lower latency and more reliable connections between mobile devices and MIDI controllers. According to MIDiA, advancements in wireless connectivity will be an important focus in the coming years.

More MIDI support built into mobile OS and apps – Mobile operating systems like iOS and Android have added more sophisticated MIDI support over time. We may see them continue expanding MIDI functionality at the core OS level, making integration smoother for music creation apps. The growth of the mobile MIDI controller market could drive further OS-level development.

New form factors for mobile controllers – With phone and tablet hardware evolving, we may see innovative new controller designs tailored specifically for mobile use. Rather than just smaller versions of existing desktop controllers, companies could take advantage of mobile devices’ portability, touchscreens, sensors and cameras to create new interaction paradigms.

Summary

Using MIDI controllers with phones opens up new possibilities for mobile music production and performance. By connecting a hardware MIDI controller to your phone via a USB adapter or wirelessly over Bluetooth, you can play software instruments, control DJ apps, and produce tracks on the go.

The key benefits of using a MIDI controller with a phone include portability, flexibility, and accessibility. With a compact MIDI keyboard or pad controller, you can make music anywhere inspiration strikes. The wide range of MIDI apps available also provides options for many workflows, from songwriting to live performance. And for novice musicians, the tactile experience of a hardware controller can make mobile music creation more intuitive to learn.

However, latency and compatibility issues can arise depending on your phone model, MIDI interface, and app choice. Extensive MIDI mapping may be required to customize controllers for certain apps. Battery life and device connectivity are other limitations to keep in mind for untethered wireless control options. Overall though, mobile MIDI capabilities continue to improve alongside advances in smartphone technology.

For casual use, compact 25-key MIDI keyboards offer a good balance of portability and playability. For pro musicians, higher quality 37-key or 49-key controllers provide more versatility. Mapped controls with transport buttons and knobs tailored for common mobile DAWs can maximize efficiency. And battery-powered wireless controllers avoid cable connectivity challenges. With some thoughtful consideration of your needs, integrating a MIDI controller into your mobile music workflow can be seamless and inspiring.