MDS-8
16
Section VI
IV. MIDI Transmission Channels
MIDI information may be broadcast on several different channels simultaneously. This allows
many channels of information to be sent through one cable and used independently of one
another, similar to the way many television broadcasts can be sent through one cable. In order to
receive the intended information, a MIDI device must be tuned to the same channel as the device
which is sending the information. Your Allen organ transmits MIDI information on several
channels. When external MIDI devices are connected to the organ, it is important to make sure
that the devices’ channels of transmission and reception match the MIDI channels of the Allen
organ divisions to which they are assigned.
The MDS-8 transmits MIDI on the following channels:
Swell = Channel 1
Great = Channel 2
Pedal = Channel 3
MIDI Program Change Messages are transmitted from the organ’s General Pistons on MIDI
Channel 8. These program change messages can be used to change the settings of MIDI sound
modules or synthesizers which are connected to the organ. Please consult the Console
Controller™ guide and the owner’s manual of your MIDI device(s) for more information on how
MIDI Program Change Messages are handled by each particular device.
In addition to note information, MIDI Volume Messages are sent on MIDI channels 1, 2, and 3
by the organ’s expression shoes. In this manner, the volume level of connected MIDI devices
may be controlled. Please consult the owner’s manual of your MIDI device(s) for more
information on how MIDI Volume information is handled by each device.
If any external MIDI device is used to transmit information to the Allen organ, the same
assignment of MIDI channels must be used as outlined above.
INSTALLATION, VOICING, CARE OF THE ORGAN,
and BATTERY BACKUP
INSTALLATION
Wherever your MDS organ may be situated, careful installation is a prerequisite to
achieving successful results. Your Allen representative is well qualified to guide you in
planning for this. Factory assistance in planning the installation is also available and
may, in fact, be sought by your Allen Organ representative. Once the organ is installed,
