The Linux equivalent to Core Audio/MIDI is called Jack. For windows there's MIDIyoke (for Windows 2000 and Windows XP) and Hubi's Loopback for Windows 98, while Mac OS X has this functionality built into Core MIDI. There are several free programmes which allow you to route MIDI data between applications. Because Pure Data can transmit SysEx messages, hardware devices like drum machines can be controlled in unusual ways, for instance by sending messages to restart the pattern playing at arbitrary intervals, allowing construction of complex rhythms. I'm also into generative composition, so I like to amuse myself by building random note and rhythm generators, using these to control an external sequencer and VST instruments. For example, I often use it in conjunction with a sequencer, randomising all the settings on my soft synths at the push of a button. Pure Data really shines in combination with other software. So if you yearn for an electromagnetic catapult that flings jelly at the audience every time you rattle your tambourine, or a USB incense burner which radiates progressively stronger smells as the temperature in the church hall rises, Pure Data can help you achieve this! Connecting Hardware & Software Using Pure Data In effect Pure Data can use any kind of input (audio, MIDI, video, sensors, and so on) to control any kind of output, with lots of processing in the middle. As well as audio and MIDI, Pure Data includes functions (called objects, or externals) for generating 3D graphics and video, and can also control external hardware like stage lighting or robotics. They are designed in a free, easy-to-use graphical programming environment called Pure Data and can be used to make almost any sound & MIDI tool you can imagine.

But, best of all, it's free!Įditing properties.There is a wealth of free audio and MIDI utilities on-line which can be edited and customised easily. Pure Data lets you process audio and MIDI within a powerful modular environment, and lets you combine it easily with video, custom hardware controllers, light shows, and even robotics. It can be easily adapted to control the synths of your choice - right-clicking on any object lets you alter its properties (shown below) or access help files relating to it. Here is a MIDI patch editor constructed within Pure Data.

Open sound control tutorial