Welcome to ValorosoIT, your portal dedicated to the exciting exploration of the world of retro computers and vintage electronics! In this video, Michel Mammoliti takes us on a journey into the universe of MIDI Music, exploring the details of vintage systems connected to an icon of the past: the Atari Mega ST.
The beginning of a sonic adventure with MIDI Music
Our musical odyssey begins with an expert, Michel Mammoliti, who takes us through a detailed simulation of how music was produced in music recording studios in the 80s and early 90s. This journey through time offers us an opportunity to admire how the passion for vintage electronics and music are harmoniously intertwined.
The video interview was recorded on the occasion of Varese Retrocomputing 2023.
The Atari Mega ST: the heart of the Simulation
The centerpiece of this simulation is the Atari Mega ST, a powerful vintage computer that, through the MIDI (Musical Instruments Digital Interface) system, transforms into a digital conductor! Connected to a series of vintage keyboards (synthesizers), the Atari Mega ST acts as a sequencer and sends commands in real time, to generate every note, every intensity and every timbre of the song being played.
The Atari Mega ST is equipped with the Cubase software, the sequencer, which sends all musical commands to the synthesizers through the various MIDI cables.
Vintage synthesizers: Roland Juno-106 and Korg DW-8000
Among the keyboards connected to the Atari, two legends stand out: the famous Roland Juno-106 and the very versatile Korg DW-8000. Both synthesizers are characterized by their hybrid combination of digital and analog technology. The digital control is handled by an internal microcontroller, which is combined with the Juno-106's all-analog and hybrid sound generation (digital oscillators, filters, and analog VCAs in the case of the DW-8000).
Yamaha DX100 and Casio CZ-101: 100% digital
The Yamaha DX100, a compact version of the famous DX7, and the Casio CZ-101, both fully digital, are also connected to the Atari Mega ST via MIDI cables.
MIDI Music: A Hands-On Demonstration
The video includes a detailed practical demonstration, led by Michel Mammoliti. Let's see how the Atari Mega ST, with Cubase software, generates the commands for the various keyboards, which are transmitted through MIDI cables. Each synthesizer receives MIDI data, turning digital signals into music.
The music produced by the various synthesizers is conveyed, through some analog cables, to an audio mixer and, finally, sent to a stereo system for reproduction.
This demonstration highlights the seamless integration of retro technology and music creation!
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