IEMidi is a new open-source, cross-platform MIDI mapping editor designed to work with any controller, including gamepads, joysticks, and other non-traditional MIDI devices. It offers a visual interface for creating and editing mappings, allowing users to easily connect controller inputs to MIDI outputs like notes, CC messages, and program changes. IEMidi aims to be a flexible and accessible tool for musicians, developers, and anyone looking to control MIDI devices with a wide range of input hardware. It supports Windows, macOS, and Linux and can be downloaded from GitHub.
Music Generation AI models are rapidly evolving, offering diverse approaches to creating novel musical pieces. These range from symbolic methods, like MuseNet and Music Transformer, which manipulate musical notes directly, to audio-based models like Jukebox and WaveNet, which generate raw audio waveforms. Some models, such as Mubert, focus on specific genres or moods, while others offer more general capabilities. The choice of model depends on the desired level of control, the specific use case (e.g., composing vs. accompanying), and the desired output format (MIDI, audio, etc.). The field continues to progress, with ongoing research addressing limitations like long-term coherence and stylistic consistency.
Hacker News users discussed the potential and limitations of current music AI models. Some expressed excitement about the progress, particularly in generating short musical pieces or assisting with composition. However, many remained skeptical about AI's ability to create truly original and emotionally resonant music, citing concerns about derivative outputs and the lack of human artistic intent. Several commenters highlighted the importance of human-AI collaboration, suggesting that these tools are best used as aids for musicians rather than replacements. The ethical implications of copyright and the potential for job displacement in the music industry were also touched upon. Several users pointed out the current limitations in generating longer, coherent pieces and maintaining a consistent musical style throughout a composition.
Modest is a Lua library designed for working with musical harmony. It provides functionality for representing notes, chords, scales, and intervals, allowing for manipulation and analysis of musical structures. The library supports various operations like transposing, inverting, and identifying chord qualities. It also includes features for working with different tuning systems and generating musical progressions. Modest aims to be a lightweight and efficient tool for music-related applications in Lua, suitable for everything from algorithmic composition to music theory analysis.
HN users generally expressed interest in Modest, praising its clean API and the potential usefulness of a music theory library in Lua. Some users suggested potential improvements like adding support for microtones, different tuning systems, and rhythm representation. One commenter specifically appreciated the clear documentation and examples provided. The discussion also touched on other music-related Lua libraries and tools, such as LÖVE2D and Euterpea, comparing their features and approaches to music generation and manipulation. There was some brief discussion about the choice of Lua, with one user mentioning its suitability for embedded systems and real-time applications.
The blog post details how Perl can be used to enhance the functionality of MIDI devices. The author describes creating a Perl script to act as a bridge between different MIDI devices, specifically a MIDI keyboard and a drum machine. By intercepting and modifying MIDI messages in real-time using Perl's MIDI modules, the author implemented features like transposing notes, remapping drum sounds, and adding swing quantization. This allowed the author to combine and customize the capabilities of their hardware in ways not possible with the devices alone, showcasing the flexibility and power of Perl for manipulating MIDI data.
Hacker News users generally expressed appreciation for the author's ingenuity and the practical application of Perl for a niche purpose. Several commenters shared their own experiences with MIDI tinkering and fondly recalled older, simpler MIDI setups. One commenter highlighted the utility of Perl's flexible text processing capabilities in this context, while another pointed out the enduring relevance of older languages like Perl for hardware interfacing. A few users discussed the potential benefits and drawbacks of using other languages like Python or C for similar projects, with some arguing for the simplicity and speed of Perl for such tasks. The overall sentiment was positive, with a touch of nostalgia for a bygone era of computing.
Mixxx is free, open-source DJ software available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. It offers a comprehensive feature set comparable to professional DJ applications, including support for a wide range of DJ controllers, four decks, timecode vinyl control, recording and broadcasting capabilities, effects, looping, cue points, and advanced mixing features like key detection and quantizing. Mixxx aims to empower DJs of all skill levels with professional-grade tools without the cost barrier, fostering a community around open-source DJing.
HN commenters discuss Mixxx's maturity and feature richness, favorably comparing it to proprietary DJ software. Several users praise its stability and professional-grade functionality, highlighting features like key detection, BPM analysis, and effects. Some mention using it successfully for live performances and even prefer it over Traktor and Serato. The open-source nature of the software is also appreciated, with some expressing excitement about contributing or customizing it. A few commenters bring up past experiences with Mixxx, noting improvements over time and expressing renewed interest in trying the latest version. The potential for Linux adoption in the DJ space is also touched upon.
Summary of Comments ( 8 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43291678
HN users generally praised IEMidi for its cross-platform compatibility and open-source nature, viewing it as a valuable tool for musicians and developers. Some highlighted the project's potential for accessibility, allowing customization for users with disabilities. A few users requested features like scripting support and the ability to map to system-level actions. There was discussion around existing MIDI mapping solutions, comparing IEMidi favorably to some commercial options while acknowledging limitations compared to others with more advanced features. The developer actively engaged with commenters, addressing questions and acknowledging suggestions for future development.
The Hacker News post about IEMidi, a cross-platform MIDI map editor, generated a moderate level of discussion with several insightful comments.
One commenter pointed out the existing challenge of finding good MIDI mapping software, especially for less common or custom controllers. They expressed enthusiasm for IEMidi's potential to fill this gap, particularly praising its cross-platform compatibility and open-source nature. This resonates with the project's aim to be accessible and adaptable for various user needs.
Another user highlighted the importance of visual feedback within MIDI mapping software, suggesting that a graphical representation of the controller and its mappings could significantly enhance usability. They specifically mentioned a desire to see knobs, sliders, and buttons visually represented and manipulated within the software, mirroring the physical controller.
Someone with experience using other MIDI mapping tools drew a comparison between IEMidi and existing solutions. They appreciated IEMidi's cleaner and more modern user interface while acknowledging the strengths of established alternatives like Bome MIDI Translator Pro for handling more complex scenarios. This comment offers a valuable perspective on how IEMidi fits within the current landscape of MIDI mapping software.
A further comment emphasized the utility of IEMidi for repurposing old or non-standard controllers, breathing new life into potentially obsolete hardware. This highlights the project's potential to empower users to customize and maximize the use of their existing equipment.
The discussion also touched upon the technical aspects of MIDI implementation. One commenter inquired about the underlying libraries used by IEMidi and how they contribute to its cross-platform capabilities. This reveals an interest in the technical foundation of the project and its potential for further development and extensibility.
While several commenters expressed interest and appreciation for IEMidi, there were also some requests for specific features, like support for additional MIDI message types and improved visual feedback. This suggests active engagement with the project and a desire to see it evolve to meet a wider range of user needs.