Instrument Track vs Midi Track + VST Instrument

Posted on Feb 01, 2010 07:29 pm
Fragile
Member Since: Sep 30, 2009

This is something that i've been meaning to ask everyones opinions on, but what advantages are there of using a Midi Track and VST instrument setup compared to an instrument track, which basically includes both (i'm referring to cubase, i'm not sure if other DAWs do the same thing or not)

Basically, with a midi track you just store the notes and then out the midi track to a VST instrument. With an instrument track, its all wrapped up in one. What sort of situation would it improve workflow to use a midi track? So far i've just gone with instrument tracks but, hey i'm always looking for a nice way to save a few minutes here and there.

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Dematrix
http://www.reverbnation.com/2ndg
Member
Since: Nov 27, 2007

Feb 01, 2010 07:58 pm

not sure, lemme know though when you figure it out. im interested.

Graham Smith
Member
Since: Jun 08, 2008

Feb 03, 2010 06:23 am

I use Sonar. In version 6 LE, the VST and Midi tracks were two separate tracks. When I upgraded to Sonar Home Studio 7 XL, they've changed it so that VST tracks are all wrapped into one (sounds like what you're describing in Cubase, Fragile).

Having used both ways, the latter is probably easier, if only because it is one less track being displayed which gives more room on the screen for other tracks! Hasn't caused me any other problems.

I only use Midi tracks on their own when I am using external hardware to generate audio, e.g. my digital piano or sound module. Of course, this then requires an audio track to actually record the sound.

pipedreams
Marijuana Czar
Member
Since: Oct 01, 2009

Feb 26, 2010 12:58 am

this is completely unrelated, but to the dude above me: the gold symbol in your picture is on the button of the pair of jeans i am wearing.

this is some trippy ****.
lol

olddog
Member
Since: Jul 02, 2003

Feb 27, 2010 12:23 am

Based on my experience with Sonar and I assume Cubase is similar, the main reason for using an Instrument track vs Midi+Audio track is it's simpler. The reason for using one over the other would be the amount of control and options you have such as multiple outputs with Midi+Audio vs a single output (at least in Sonar's case) with an Instrument track. When I need a quick Stereo out for a VSTi such as a Syth, Keyboard, Drums, I use an Instrument track. When I'm using one of my Drum VSTi's in final mixing usually use Midi+Audio so that I have each piece on it's own output.

Dan