Many MIDI controllers have predefined mapping schemes ('Remote Codecs') that Reason uses for this purpose. Controllers that you declare for Remote use (also in the Control Surfaces Preferences) can take advantage of fluid mapping of controls to Reason's devices. Reason has an intelligent MIDI control and mapping system called Remote. You'll find the device/port listed in Reason's Control Surfaces Preferences (Screen 1) under 'Easy MIDI Inputs'. Unless told otherwise, Reason assumes that a connected device should act like a master, and will direct all MIDI from it (regardless of channel) to whichever track or device is selected. Screen 1: The Control Surfaces preferences is where MIDI controllers are usually set up.Most Reason users connect a keyboard controller to play Reason's instruments, tweak controls and record MIDI parts into the Sequencer. This month we unpick some of the confusion around this to find the best ways to sequence and play Reason from external devices. Reason has two completely different systems for configuring MIDI sources.
I'm increasingly turning to hardware sequencers to make my music, but even when I'm not using Reason as a DAW or plug‑in it's still my favourite sound module. We unpick some of the confusion around this to find the best ways to sequence and play Reason from external devices.
My KeyStep Pro sequencing Rack, with a drum machine and three synths.