Python Scripts and VMeter: Binary Clock, Game of Life, CPU Monitor Demos

The latest version of our firmware (1.28, only for hardware rev B+) supports direct control over individual LEDs, allowing you to use the VMeter as a generic I/O device with touch and pressure input. Getting python to talk to a MIDI device can be a little tricky, but the protocol isn’t hard after that. We used pyPortMIDI on OS X to do the job.

Using the MIDI out Metronome option in Sonar to make a “Visual Metronome”

The latest version of our firmware (1.28, only for hardware rev B+) supports Note On/Off control over the LEDs. This means the MIDI Metronome output in Sonar can be used to make a “Visual Metronome”.

Kenton’s USB MIDI Host converter lets you connect USB to 5 pin DIN MIDI

We bought a Kentor USB MIDI Host from noisebug to try to connect a VMeter to a regular 5 pin MIDI cable input on a keyboard, and it works!  As easy as plugging both into the box as shown below:

 

 

See our tutorial on using it.

New Distributor in Australia: Rhythm Active

We’re excited to announce a new distributor on the other side of the world: Rhythm Active in Australia.

They sell lots of stuff you won’t find in big box stores, including synths, modulars, cutting edge and niche music tech, and much more.  From their website: “Synthesisers, Eurorack and Modular Equipment, Sound Modules, Drum Machine, Keyboards, MIDI Controllers, Control Surfaces, Microphones, Keyboards, DIY Kits, Guitar and Bass Guitar Accessories, Music Creation and Remixing Software, USB/Firewire and MIDI Interfaces, Wireless Technology, Sound Processors, DJ Equipment, Cables, Connections, Effects Machines and so much more!”

Review in Italian “Audio Video & Music” by NoiseCollective.net

If you speak Italian, Audio Video & Music is a publication (free pdf download) packed with interesting reviews, tips and tutorials.  p. 36 features a VMeter review.  Thanks noisecollective.net for the review!

New Review from Digital Recording Arts: “A USB MIDI Controller for Everyone”

http://www.digitalrecordingarts.com/2012/03/13/the-vmeter-a-usb-midi-controller-for-everyone/

bandesnaci posts VMeter review and Ableton Live video

The video shows 10 uses in Ableton Live, including

• vinyl scratch emulation
• beat repeat control
• AB effect sends
• crossfader
• tape stop and fast forward (speed control)
• chain selector
• bass filter and tremelo
• bass filter LFO rate, wobble
• instrument pitch control
• keyboard volume and vibrato

The full VMeter review is on his site.

2nd European distributor now online (bax-shop.nl)

We’re excited to announce our 2nd European distributor, bax-shop.nl, now has stock! They’re also currently offering free shipping to some locations in the EU.

VMeter now available in Germany

We happy to announce our first distributor outside the US.  http://www.musicstore.de now carries the VMeter! (and 50,000 other music items!)

SonicState Talks about VMeter

SonicState, a site and youtube channel that talks about music technology and production, talked about the VMeter. Check out 41:50s in the following:

They mention that it’d be nice to integrate to other devices, for instance, adding a ribbon controller to a guitar.  And also, that it’d be better to have a group of VMeters in a case with one USB cable coming.

Our next hardware revision will include the ability to connect multiples together to allow custom “collections.” The goal is to make it a building-block that’s easily integrated with other instruments.

One correction that has been clarified on our website: MaxMSP is only needed to change settings, not for daily use.