Other synths
Connecting JJazzLab to other synths via Midi.
Last updated
Connecting JJazzLab to other synths via Midi.
Last updated
In general we recommend to use FluidSynth: no setup and decent sounds.
But if you have a high-quality hardware or software synth (VST, AU, AAX, ...), you can use it with JJazzLab via a Midi cable or a a virtual Midi cable/device (such as LoopMIDI for Windows).
In the Midi tab of the Options/Preferences :
Unselect "use FluidSynth"
Select a Midi OUT device
Select an Output Synth which describes the capabilities of the connected synth.
The Output Synth information allows JJazzLab to directly display and select synth sounds/instruments from the mix console. The information is also used to remap drums notes when needed (Yamaha styles use XG drum maps, but your synth may not).
There is a predefined list of Output Synths as shown below. If your synth has more capabilities, you can use "Add a synth from file..." to load a Midi synth definition file (.ins). See below for more information on the .ins file format.
When using a software synth (e.g. VST plugin), you might prefer to control sound selection and mix settings (volume, effects, etc.) directly from the VST plugin interface. In this case you should Disable all Midi parameters from the JJazzLab mix console, so that JJazzLab only sends Midi notes.
JJazzLab can read Cakewalk instrument definition files (.ins). Those files are used by many DAWs, search the web for more information about the .ins format.
An .ins file defines a Midi synth with its list of instruments and how to select them via Midi (Bank Select/Program Change values).
These .ins format extensions are not mandatory to use for JJazzLab to work. But they are required if you have a custom .ins file and want to fully benefit from the JJazzLab features in order to get better sounding backing tracks.
The standard .ins file format lacks some information for JJazzLab to fully optimize instrument selection and drum map conversion.
For an optimum use JJazzLab needs:
For melodic instruments: its GM substitute instrument Example: the GM substitute for the XG instrument ‘12 String Guitar’ is the GM instrument ‘Steel Guitar’
For percussion instruments/drum kits: its type and its drum key map
Therefore some (optional) keyword extensions have been introduced, "{{ xxxx }}", as shown in the examples below.
There are also 2 special keyword extensions if your synth is GS compatible:
