Using a hardware synth with a DAW

DeadMoney

Hi, total noob question here but if I am using a DAW such as Reaper,fruity loops or ableton live, can I still use my hardware synth to control the synth sounds on the DAW, or even use the actual hardware synth sounds through the computer?

DamagedTrax

depends on a lot of factors.

is the synth also a midi controller? if so yes. if not no.

does the synth have a computer interface? if so you can play it within your DAW (like access virus.) if not then you'll need to play audio in or route midi from your daw to the synth and record it back

madtheory

Yes. You need a MIDI interface to control the synths in Reaper, but if your hardware synth has USB you can use that instead. You'll also need to connect audio out of your hardware synth into an audio interface, so that it can be recorded in Reaper.

DeadMoney

The hardware synth does not have a built in audio interface but I have an external MIDI interface which I will be putting it through instead. The synth is also a midi controller but not by USB and needs midi cables which I am yet to buy. I would prefer to use the sounds that are on the synth as I want to get more familiar with using it and tweaking patches if that makes any sense. Want to use the DAW for other sounds and Bass, drums etc. as well as just rough recording.

madtheory

If you're still wondering how to do this, you need to tell us what make and model the synth is, the make and model of the MIDI interface, and whether your PC has Firewire or not (for choosing an audio interface).

Anima

Could always read the manual :pac: