MIDI and Eurorack

Eurorack synthesizers use analog CV (control voltage) and gates, but many modules accept MIDI via dedicated interfaces. MIDI-to-CV converters translate note, velocity, and gate data into voltages your modules understand. This lets you drive your modular rig from a DAW, a hardware sequencer, or—with MIDI Lab—AI-generated MIDI streamed from your browser.

Key Concepts

Pitch CV: 1V/octave is the standard. One volt equals one octave. MIDI note 60 (middle C) maps to a specific voltage; the converter handles the math.
Gate/Trigger: Note-on events become gates (sustained while the note is held) or triggers (short pulses). Use gates for envelopes, triggers for percussive modules.
Velocity: Often maps to envelope amount or filter cutoff. Great for expressive playing.
Clock: MIDI clock (24 pulses per quarter note) can drive sequencers, LFOs, and modulation. Sync your modular to your DAW or to MIDI Lab's Infinite Engine.

MIDI-to-CV Modules

Dedicated modules like the Expert Sleepers FH-2, Mutant Brain, or smaller units like the CV.OCD translate MIDI to multiple CV and gate outputs. Some include clock, transport (start/stop), and configurable mappings. Check compatibility with your case's power and your workflow needs.

Using MIDI Lab with Eurorack

Connect a USB MIDI interface to your computer, patch its outputs to your MIDI-to-CV module, and open the Infinite Engine. Stream AI-generated sequences directly to your modular—no DAW required. Perfect for evolving pads, generative sequences, and instant inspiration. For more on MIDI hardware, see MIDI cables and streaming MIDI to synths. Try it now.