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ultracello
Description
This feature request proposes the implementation of 14-bit MIDI support within Loopy Pro to enable high-resolution control over internal parameters as well as those of hosted AUv3 plugins. Supporting 14-bit MIDI would dramatically increase the resolution of parameter adjustments—from 128 steps to 16,384—making Loopy Pro suitable for precision-critical use cases in live performance, sound design, and professional production environments.
Problems
  • Insufficient Resolution with 7-bit MIDI
    : Current MIDI support is limited to 7-bit (0–127) messages, which causes stepping artifacts when controlling parameters like filter cutoff, reverb amount, or pitch, particularly on high-quality AUv3 instruments and FX.
  • Limited Expressiveness and Control
    : Power users and live performers using expressive hardware struggle to achieve the desired smoothness and nuance, especially when dealing with fine-tuned parameters like EQ bands, compressor thresholds, or pitch bends.
  • Underutilized Hardware Capabilities
    : Many modern MIDI controllers (e.g. Electra One, Faderfox EC4, BomeBox) already support sending 14-bit high-resolution CC (including NRPN and RPN). Without support in Loopy Pro, these devices can't be fully utilized.
Proposed Solution
  • Full 14-bit MIDI Support
    :
- Recognize and respond to 14-bit high-resolution MIDI Control Change messages (using MSB/LSB pairs).
- Support both NRPN and RPN-based control messages.
  • Enhanced MIDI Learn Engine
    :
- Extend the MIDI Learn system to detect 14-bit CC pairs and assign them as high-resolution parameter sources.
  • Visual Feedback for High-Res Bindings
    :
- Clearly indicate when a parameter is being controlled via 14-bit resolution (e.g., with a visual tag or tooltip in the UI).
  • AUv3 Integration
    :
- Ensure that high-resolution control is passed through to hosted AUv3 plugin parameters that natively support fine resolution.
Examples
  1. Precise Filter Sweeps
    : A performer uses an Electra One to send 14-bit CC data to control a synth’s cutoff frequency inside Loopy Pro, achieving silky-smooth filter movements with no audible stepping.
  2. Plugin Automation
    : A producer records high-resolution automation into Loopy Pro using a Faderfox EC4, adjusting reverb decay and EQ gain curves with surgical precision.
  3. Cross-Platform Consistency
    : A user coming from Bitwig or Logic Pro wants the same level of resolution with their MIDI controller when using Loopy Pro live on iPad or macOS.
  4. Device-Specific Expectations
    : Controllers like the
    Electra One
    ,
    Faderfox EC4
    , and setups using
    BomeBox
    or
    Axoloti
    expect 14-bit support and already send such data. Without support, Loopy Pro remains the weak link in an otherwise high-res control chain.
Benefits
  • Professional-Grade Precision
    : Ensures Loopy Pro is capable of delivering the same level of detailed automation and live control as top-tier desktop DAWs.
  • Expanded Hardware Compatibility
    : Allows seamless integration with hardware that sends 14-bit MIDI—common in studio and touring-grade MIDI setups.
  • Improved Sound Design and Live Control
    : Enables smoother real-time parameter morphing, better modulation routing, and more expressive performances.
This summary was automatically generated by ChatGPT-4 on 2025-05-17.