Hands on with the MC3 - The big deal about this small MIDI controller

[@timdouglas620]

I love how easy the Morningstars are to program. They've obviously thought a lot about the user experience, and they are by far my favourite midi controllers on the market. If you're new to midi you cannot go wrong. Thank you Morningstar!

[@tommyburnhamsmusic]

Good to know. Just bought one for my HX Stomp

[@tommyburnhamsmusic]

Update. Not finding it easy to program at all,

[@timdouglas620]

@@tommyburnhamsmusic That's too bad. The documentation is very clear. I controlled my HX Stop, Strymon Riverside, and Source Audio C4 very easily. The entire rig was up and running in minutes. Everything you need is very well explained in the documentation.

[@tommyburnhamsmusic]

@@timdouglas620 HX Stop 👍

[@rickthestick8]

My MC6 arrived yesterday and with the app it is so easy to program. I was so impressed with the quality of this product I went back last night and ordered the MC3 and the MC8. Great stuff, thank you!

[@Nick-Nasty]

Sure

[@BluesDocter]

70 years old and up and running in 15 minutes! Great unit, I love the webbased editor. Sold my Disaster area MIDI controller for my stomp that was a disaster programming ;-)

[@timdouglas620]

I had a similar experience. Morningstar is definitely the way to go.

[@ramencurry6672]

70 years is young. The earth is 4.5 billion years old.

[@alfredteoh4265]

Thks for the simple run through. Videos like these will definitely boost up your sales!!

[@croak8575]

This thing is dope, it's the same size as a pedal and gives you more control with 3 buttons than I would think possible. I think you'll see this on a lot of boards, the convenience factor is crazy.

[@SPaulAndrewMaertens]

Thanks for all of the clear detail in this! I didn’t know that this could go direct TRS without also using a midi I/O box.

[@gtrfan35]

Great clear video quality, but for someone interested in finding out all this can do it sure blows through the demonstration portions too fast. If you blink you miss it- like the expression section. Checking other videos to find more info there.

[@rmp5s]

With no MIDI in, this wouldn't work with an Axe-FX III, would it? I LOVE the form factor and basically just want something to control the looper block and switch scenes...would this get the job done? I really don't want a huge controller! lol

[@Nick-Nasty]

This seems ideal for me for the c4

[@MorningstarEngineering]

The C4 needs to be controlled by a MIDI USB Host post, which the MC3 does not have. Our new MC6 PRO has that - www.morningstar.io/mc6-pro

[@Nick-Nasty]

interesting, thanks for the reply @@MorningstarEngineering

[@Dan_Ranger]

Hi Could I use this to control the midi channel changing on my EVH 5150iii 50 watt to replace the large foot switch?

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Hi. That amp has a MIDI input. Yes you can do that. It's mentioned on page 4 of their manual here: www.fmicassets.com/Damroot/Original/10001/OM_EVH5150III_6L6_50-Watt_ALL_7712817000B.pdf

[@Dan_Ranger]

@@MorningstarEngineering Thanks! 👍👍

[@jezusinc]

If you would be so kind as to explain the second method ( long press C) of navigating the bank step by step, I would greatly appreciate it.

[@bydrewelliott]

Is there any update on when this will be back in stock?

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Hi. We are looking at a December 2023 restock right now. Do send us an email for more information if you like.

[@Bryan-cm1jb]

I want one. Bummer we can't get them

[@raffimandalian]

Hello, can the trs midi outs on the mc3 be used to go in into pedals with 5 pin midi-ins (by a trs-5pin cable)? Thank you

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Hi. Yes, you can do that! This video explains MIDI connections: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jIfThWN_jrqAras

[@raffimandalian]

Thank you 👌🏻

[@Mr_A_Mia]

Good day Morningstar! Midi is completely foreign to me, but im searching for how i can use it with an H9 pedal. Even with this gracious video you have posted, i dont know even know where to start. Can you (or a commenter) point me to where i can learn to do this step by step? Thank you!

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Hi. Please send us an email at [e-mail]. We provide technical support from there. A service ticket will be created for you and we will be able to follow up easily. Cheers!

[@JasperHoiby]

Dear Mr. A. Did this work out for you in the end? In a very similar position right now trying to set the MC3 up with an expression pedal and two H9's...

[@MorningstarEngineering]

@@JasperHoiby Hi. Check out this video, it should help: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y4WxhZ6nnZKae6c If you still need assistance, please feel free to email us at [e-mail]

[@Mr_A_Mia]

hello jasper. apologies for the late response. the vid morningstar sent to your response should help. i only needed to switch presets for the h9, so i stuck with a barn3 OX9

[@JasperHoiby]

@@Mr_A_Mia Thank you!

[@nicklashallberg1]

Hello! I'm new to this midi stuff. Would want some help on what gear I need. My needs for midi are just switch between banks on my Big sky, Timeline and Mobius, and a tap tempo for the last two. Will this product do that for me or Will I need an addition taptempo pedal?

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Hi! Please send us an email at ‘[e-mail]’. We provide technical support from there. A service ticket will be created for you and we will be able to follow up easily.

[@akoshable]

Since there is no MIDI in, is it still possible to have two-way communication with an HX stomp? If so.. how? USB?

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Hi. MIDI in is required for that. So 2-way communication with the HX Stomp is not possible with the MC3.

[@Dave-0]

Pardon my ignorance here please…could I utilize the TRS sends to switch analog amp channels?

[@MorningstarEngineering]

They cannot. Only the MC6 PRO can: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jIi0eWSioN6Bfbssi=9gLhcg-Psx3AJjiu

[@tudatostrader]

Is it possible to send tap tempo and sync from an Hx Stomp to a pedal that is connected through the MC3 or the tap tempo has to go from the MC3 to the stomp and the pedal?

[@MorningstarEngineering]

The MC3 does not have a MIDI In port. Therefore you cannot pass MIDI through it. The MC6 and MC8 have MIDI In ports that allow you to do that.

[@MusikMoksha]

Thank you for the very informative video. I was wondering if I could use this MIDI footswitch to switch between the 4 channels on my H&K GM40 Deluxe Amp. If yes, where can I find more info on how to do this Thx.

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Hi. It's really easy. Amp channel selection is saved as part of a preset on your amp. You can recall that preset via MIDI by sending a program change message. Refer to page 5 - 2.4 Programming a preset in your amp manual here: hughes-and-kettner.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/GM_40_Deluxe_BDA_1_3.pdf

[@lankududniteshift]

Dear Morningstar……i have a Laney FS2 dual footswitch. Can i use my Laney FS2 dual footswitch to do Bank Select up or down for the MC3, via the MC3’s Expression Input?

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Hi! We published a video explaining what type of aux switches will work with our controllers. Check it out here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/f4qom6WwqMaGmMU

[@lankududniteshift]

@@MorningstarEngineering Thank you sir. Will checkit out soon...

[@ajaybangi]

Can it be used to control garage band? If it can, how do i connect it to ipad?

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Hi. Yes, our MIDI controllers can control any software as long as it accepts external MIDI control. You can connect your Morningstar controller to your iPad via the lightning to USB camera adaptor.

[@alexanderisaac6520]

It maybe a stupid question but I can use the midi out of the mc3 into my hx stomp and then use the midi thru into the specular tempus?

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Hi. Yes! That's what MIDI in and thru ports are designed for. Cheers!

[@jessecollier2628]

Ford thiz work with the source audio one series? I'm still very ignorant of all the different connections within each pedal and how the communicate.

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Hi. Our controllers are universal and work with any device that accepts MIDI. Some of Source Audio's pedals only work with their proprietary Neurohub system and will accept standard MIDI. As a rule of thumb, the larger SA pedals (Ventris, Nemesis and Collider) and EQ2 accept standard MIDI, while their other smaller format pedals do not (they require the Neurohub).

[@dudertube1]

dang. ive watched every video on the mc3 and still have no idea what i'm doing. is there a 101 video for newbies anywhere on the internet? im in way over my head.

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Hi. Please send us an email at [e-mail]. We provide technical support from there. A service ticket will be created for you and we will be able to follow up from there. Cheers!

[@JasperHoiby]

Totally relate. No idea no easy setup vids anywhere it seems..

[@steveyankees1]

@@JasperHoiby I’m so frustrated I cannot find a 101 video either for newbies.

Beautiful midi controller. Is posible to use Aux Switches and Expression Pedal at same time?

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Hi. That is possible on the MC6 and MC8. The MC3 only has one 1/4 inch input so it can only accommodate either or. Here is our product comparison chart for your reference: www.morningstarfx.com/compare-products Cheers!

[@FastRedPonyCar]

When are they going to be back in stock?

[@MorningstarEngineering]

We posted some information regarding the product stock situation in our forum. You can find it here: forum.morningstar.io/t/about-the-mc3-6-8-and-ml10x-stock-situation/4982

[@FastRedPonyCar]

@@MorningstarEngineering Ah. That sucks to hear. I ended up just buying a used MC6 mkii on reverb but if you guys build an 8 button pro switch with the LCD’s I’d definitely consider upgrading.

[@MorningstarEngineering]

@@FastRedPonyCar Yes, that is in the works

[@EscapeTheCloudsOfficial]

Does this have MIDI Thru? For instance, I currently send MIDI program changes from my computer directly to my GT-1000CORE. Can I connect my MC3 to my computer via USB, and the CORE to the MC3's MIDI output, and send the program changes thru the MC3 to CORE, along with sending commands to the CORE from the MC3 itself?

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Hi. Yes, our MIDI controllers can relay PC, CC and Note messages from their USB ports out through their MIDI outputs.

[@yach1d]

Can the MC3 number of switches be expanded by an external aux switch (like the mc6 and mc8 can do)? If so, how many extra switches does it support?

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Hi. Yes, it can. It supports 3 external aux switches. You can refer this product comparison chart for all the product details: www.morningstarfx.com/compare-products Hope that helps!

[@adersondallacosta3300]

Is the morning star USA 🇺🇸?

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Hi. We are based in and ship from Singapore.

[@sergiorivera9650]

It would be nice a tutorial with a neural or other guitar vst

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Hi. You can check our our latest Ableton video. There should be some useful tips regarding MIDI mapping for you. Neural plugins are super simple to use with a MIDI controller. We had a call with Cory Wong before about this. All you need to do is select what MIDI message you want each knob/preset on your software to be controlled by. Then just send the same MIDI messages with your MIDI controller. Or you can MIDI map as well.

[@lewisorton]

So I understand that you can do single press, double press and long press etc. But can these be all assigned to one switch? So one switch has a single press setting, a double press setting and a long press setting? Effectively making one switch into 3? Or is this not how it works?

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Hi. Yes, that's the point of having multiple actions available. So one switch can perform multiple functions. Cheers!

[@rafaelrada9861]

Hi Morningstar... when is MC3 going to be back in stock? :(

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Hi. We have temporarily suspended MC3 production due to supply issues and do not have any visibility on when we will be able to start producing them again. However, it is unlikely to be any time soon. So if you do have MIDI controller needs, you may want to consider getting another. We have a product comparison chart here to help you understand the differences better - www.morningstar.io/compare-products

[@rafaelrada9861]

@@MorningstarEngineering thanks for your response, I just bought the MC6 then with an ML5. Hope to have at home soon

[@distrustfulmonkey2832]

No midi in/through?

[@tommyburnhamsmusic]

How do you set it up to turn blocks on and off, and how do you set up tap tempo and hold for tuner

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Hi. It depends on what you are using it to control. We explain all that with regards to the HX Stomp in these 2 videos: kzbin.info/www/bejne/q2KllmWtjMqHe7M and kzbin.info/www/bejne/bXqpaZp_grNnoKM

[@nujdimanahan2704]

Is the omni port using trs or ts, for sending midi out?

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Hi. MIDI is sent via TRS. All information can be found on our website and in our product manuals. Cheers!

[@stevenblakeakahashburns]

Can this control garage band and korg gadget soft synth? And does it control my hardware synths from a 1/4 inch jack?

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Yes, the Korg Gadget accepts MIDI control via USB. Controlling it would be similar to as shown in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qp2Ti6eYnNt8Y7s

[@famroeleveld]

Hi. What are the capabilities of the mc3 in combination with the plethora x5 from tc electronic?

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Hi. Our controllers can control all functions and parameters of any device as long as they are MIDI-controllable. Please refer to the Plethora X5 manual for what is MIDI-controllable.

[@kurtgehring]

Is it possible to control presets of the Source Audio C4 Synth (which be controlled by USB only) with the MC3?

[@MorningstarEngineering]

The C4 requires a USB MIDI host to interface with standard MIDI. You will not be able to connect directly without a host such as this one: www.amazon.com/Midiplus-USB-MIDI-Host-midiplus/dp/B074NGTGHN

[@lucasvillaquiroz]

Would it be possible to convert one of the trs midi outs into a midi In? And have the 5 pin out as a thru/out. If not, is it a function that could be added as a firmware update?

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Hi Lucas, that's not possible. The 3.5mm ports are wired to be MIDI outputs and not inputs. Cheers!

[@lcglazer]

What country is Morningstar based in?

[@mikem.1203]

Singapore

[@robb4340]

Nice

[@AlanElias350]

Just got mine today. Im Having a hard time figuring out how this works. Too many presses and combinations. Trying to do it without a computer. Almost ready to give up..

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Hi. Please send us an email at ‘[e-mail]’. We provide technical support from there. A service ticket will be created for you and we will be able to follow up easily. It's probably just a simple beginner error and we'd be happy to help. Cheers!

[@joeyskar]

Hi, I recently picked up the MC6 MKii and wanted to use it like a One Control Basilisk where I program it to a Midi channel, have my Super Switcher send it a PC message, and have the MC6 disperse multiple PC messages through multiple Midi channels but it looks like it only takes PC messages and uses them to go through bank 1-30. Is there any way that this can be updated to receive PC messages and have the ability to program what each PC message it receives? Say I set it to Midi channel 16 and I want to send it PC 1 I want the ability to program what PC1 will do when it's received so when it receives PC1 it will send MC1 PC1, MC2 PC16, MC3 PC0, ect.

[@joeyskar]

Nevermind, I figured it out with CC Numbers and CC Values. Being able to do a PC is just a cherry on top. Fabulous device guys. 🤘

[@gabrielcastrorucoba5977]

Hi! Can I use the usb port to control my DAW like a regular midi controller?

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Yes you can! We'll be publishing a video about that this week here. Cheers!

[@danielgniewoehner4926]

Where can I buy this? USA

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Hi. We ship directly to the USA from our website and also have Vintage King Audio as our dealer there. However, we have temporarily suspended MC3 production due to supply issues and do not have any visibility on when we will be able to start producing them again. However, it is unlikely to be any time soon. So if you do have MIDI controller needs, you could consider getting another. We have a product comparison chart here to help you understand the differences better - www.morningstar.io/compare-products

[@danielgniewoehner4926]

@@MorningstarEngineering Thank you for the thorough answer!

[@danielgniewoehner4926]

@@MorningstarEngineering Thank you for the thorough answer!

[@StevenRiveraVlog]

Hi, I did the bank change mode with the long press and didn't work, how can I do it?

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Make sure to click on 'disconnect device' on the editor. Some functions are disabled when in editor mode to ensure a smooth editing experience.

[@kisho2679]

can it send MIDI Song Select commands (System Common messages) to hardware synths?

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Hi. Yes it can. The Song Select message type is listed in our MIDI Message Type Glossary here: morningstarengineering.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/MMS/pages/181698784/MIDI+Type+Glossary#Song-Select

[@dieg000n]

It's possible to control a zoom ms50g throught usb-midi output? Thanks!

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Hi. It will not work. The ms50g requires a USB MIDI host for it to communicate with standard MIDI controllers.

[@BartoProductions]

hey ! would i be able to slave this to a boss RC 500 clock?

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Hi. The MC3 does not have a MIDI input so that is not possible. The MC6 and MC8 have MIDI inputs.

[@ORFisHome]

Do the 3.5mm MIDI ports send MIDI clock?

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Yes, they do. All MIDI outputs including the USB ports) on our controllers send all MIDI messages out simultaneously.

[@ORFisHome]

@@MorningstarEngineering Great! And the MC3 can also do song and set lists like its big brothers?

[@MorningstarEngineering]

@@ORFisHome Yes that is correct!

[@benstagram97]

Where can we buy the TRS 3.5 to MIDI cables?

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Hi. If you are referring to 3.5mm to 5-pin cables, you can get a custom builder to make you some or make your own (www.morningstarfx.com/post/make-your-own-3-5mm-trs-to-din5-midi-cable). If you are referring to the 3.5mm to 1.4 inch cables, you can do the above mentioned as well, or just get these Hosa (www.amazon.com/Hosa-CMM-105R-Right-angle-Stereo-Interconnect/dp/B00BGDMC5Q) ones and adapt them.

[@nujdimanahan2704]

Anyone knows how to set a switch to do bank up and down? Seem that this is not a straightforward approach.

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Hi. You just need to select the Bank Up or Bank Down message type (morningstarengineering.atlassian.net/wiki/spaces/MMS/pages/181698784/Message+Type+Glossary#Bank-Up) and program it to the switch you want to use.

[@joelmora16]

But what’s the point of being the best midi controller but it’s sold out 😢

[@wadecarefully]

Don’t know much about midi but I love your veggie chicken nuggets!

[@tpickles]

How would I best use this to control a USB Hosted pedal, ie a Source Audio C4, alongside other 3.5mm/din gear, please?

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Hi. The source Audio C4 is a USB device and requires a USB MIDI host to work with standard MIDI controllers.

[@dickjonesify]

You need the Source Audio Hub in between 👌🏼 Works great

[@tpickles]

@@dickjonesify thanks, good to know it does work - but hoping to minimise extra boxes. would rather spend the money on a midi controlller with USB host capabilities! still waiting for that, I guess...

[@HasyirIbrahim]

SINGAPORE REPRESENT!

[@Faithaven]

This editor is the most insane Confusing thing the world. Just want to change my Revv g20 amp channel with my mc3. Forget it. Just going to buy the Revv pedal instead. Insanely too complicated

[@MorningstarEngineering]

Hi. The flexibility our controllers offer means that there is going to be a slight learning curve. Sorry that you are finding it too complicated. Please send us an email at '[e-mail]' if you need assistance. We provide technical support from there and would love for you to be one of our many happy customers. A service ticket will be created for you and we will be able to follow up easily. Cheers!

[@tonepilot]

Although bright and legible, I wouldn’t call the screen gorgeous.

[@Plymouthmusicschool]

Do you know if the MC3 can draw power from the HX stomp via usb?

[@MorningstarEngineering]

As far as we know, the HX Stomp does not output power via USB.