ArKaos VJ 3.0 provides a new powerful feature that transforms the program into a "video instrument" that can be triggered by a professional MIDI sequencer. With the aid of the ReWire protocol (version 2.0), you can now compose your visual sequence using software programs such as Cubase, which will directly trigger and control your visuals and effects in ArKaos to create a video performance.

The ReWire Protocol will link a ReWire device (i.e. ArKaos VJ 3.0) and a ReWire mixer (i.e. Cubase). It is important to launch Cubase before ArKaos VJ. Opening Cubase first will automatically make it the "master," and VJ the "slave."

Next you must configure ArKaos to use ReWire as a MIDI device. Go to Edit > Preferences > MIDI Setup and choose "ReWire (Just MIDI, No Audio)." ArKaos will now only receive MIDI commands from the ReWire mixer (Cubase).

In the mixer, choose ArKaos VJ as a MIDI output on your MIDI track. This will cause MIDI commands to be sent to ArKaos VJ, triggering specific video actions.

The following MIDI commands are recognized by ArKaos VJ:

NOTE ON/OFF: triggers the layers
CONTROLLERS: controls effects & visual parameters
MIDI CLOCK: synchronizes the automation
BEND: controls various effects parameters

Using Cubase, you can now edit your MIDI notes as illustrated in the diagram below.

It is also possible to adjust the controller's values, as illustrated below. (For more specific instructions as to how to accomplish these functions in Cubase or another software application, please refer to your owner's manual.)

Specific ReWire Uses

 ReWire can be used in conjunction with ArKaos VJ to accomplish two main functions. If you want to play a sequence in real time, the ReWire Mixer sends MIDI commands directly to ArKaos to trigger the layers (visual and/or effect), and your performance is displayed immediately. 

Alternatively, you can use ReWire to record a sequence. Simply open the Event Recorder in ArKaos (ArKaos > Event Recorder menu). When you hit the Record button in ArKaos Event Recorder, it automatically starts playing the Cubase sequence. The result is exactly the same as exporting your MIDI sequence from the Mixer as a .mid file and then importing it in the ArKaos Event Recorder. This is just an easier way to accomplish the same task.

 Tip: ArKaos VJ's red MIDI activity indicator LED allows you to confirm MIDI activity.

For additional information about the use of ArKaos VJ with ReWire, please visit http://forum.arkaos.net/viewtopic.php?t=316.

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