Keith McMillen Instruments SoftStep User manual

Keith McMillen
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SoftStep Z
SoftStep
Reference Manual
Keith McMillen
INSTRUMENTS

SoftStep
Version 2.0
February 2014
Copyright 2007-2014 Keith McMillen Instruments, a wholly owned subsidiary of Kesumo LLC. All rights
reserved. Made in USA.
No part of this manual may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or for any purpose without the
express written permission of the copyright holders.
The content of this manual is furnished for informational use only, is subject to change without notice,
and should not be construed as a commitment by Keith McMillen Instruments. Every effort has been
made to ensure that the information in this manual is accurate. No warranties, express or implied, are
made with regard to the quality, suitability, or accuracy of this document. Keith McMillen Instruments
reserves the right to change the contents of this document and/or the associated products at any time
without the provision of prior notice to specific persons or organizations. Keith McMillen Instruments
shall not be held liable for damages of any kind arising from the use, or the inability to use this product
or its documentation, even if the possibility of such damage is known.
Product and brand names contained in this document are used for identification purposes only. Keith
McMillen Instruments, the Keith McMillen Instruments Logo, the SoftStep and SoftStep logo are
trademarks of Kesumo LLC. Apple, Finder, GarageBand, Logic, Mac, MacBook, Macintosh, Mac OS,
and QuickTime are trademarks of Apple Inc, registered in the U.S. and other countries. Windows is a
registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and other countries. Intel is a
registered trademark of Intel Corporation or its subsidiaries in the United States and other countries.
All other product and company names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective
holders. All other names and designations of companies, products, trademarks, or brands used in this
document are the registered property of their respective holders.
Created by Keith McMillen, Conner Lacy, Chuck Carlson, Evan Adams, Evan Bogunia, Diane Douglas,
Tom Ferguson, Matt Hettich, David Hishinuma, Sarah Howe, Daniel McAnulty, Dennis Saputelli, Dustin
Schultz, Barry Threw, Nick Wang, Carson Whitley, and Steve Wright
This reference manual was written by Carson Whitley.
Keith McMillen
INSTRUMENTS

Table Of Contents
...................................................................................................Welcome!6
................................................................................Questions? Feedback? Contact Us!!6
..................................................................................1.0 Before You Begin!8
............................................................................1.1 What’s In The SoftStep Package?!8
..................................................................1.2 What’s In The MIDI Expander Package?!8
..............................................................................................1.3 System Requirements!8
....................................................................................1.4 Conventions In This Manual!9
..................................................................................2.0 Getting Started!11
..............................................................................................2.1 SoftStep Hardware!11
....................................................................................................2.1.1 Overview!11
.........................................................................................................2.1.2 Specs!12
....................................................................................2.2 MIDI Expander Hardware!13
....................................................................................................2.2.1 Overview!13
.........................................................................................................2.2.2 Specs!14
.............................................................................................2.3 Connecting SoftStep!15
............................................................................................2.3.1 To A Computer!15
..................................................................................................2.3.2 To An iPad!16
......................................................................................2.3.3 To MIDI Hardware!17
....................................................................2.3.4 To MIDI Hardware + Computer!18
.....................................................................................2.4 Factory Presets Overview!19
..................................................................................................2.4.1 The Presets!19
.....................................................................................2.4.2 Customizing Presets!20
........................................................................................3.0 Basic Editor!22

......................................................................................................3.1 Main Window!22
...........................................................................................................3.1.1 Keys!22
.......................................................................................................3.1.2 Settings!23
........................................................................................................3.1.3 Presets!24
.....................................................................................................3.1.4 Nav Pad!24
.......................................................................................3.1.5 Menu Bar Options!25
.......................................................................3.1.6 Message Types (Basic Editor)!26
.........................................................................................3.1.7 Display Behavior!28
.......................................................................3.1.8 Factory Presets (Basic Editor)!29
.................................................................................4.0 Advanced Editor!32
......................................................................................4.1 Main Window Overview!32
...................................................................................................4.1.1 Key Boxes!33
......................................................................................4.1.2 Display Name Box!33
.............................................................................................4.1.3 Presets Section!33
......................................................................4.2 Key Modulation Window Overview!35
....................................................................................................4.2.1 Overview!35
....................................................................................................4.2.2 Modlines!35
...................................................................................4.2.3 LED+Display Settings!39
......................................................................................................4.2.4 Counter!40
..................................................................................4.2.5 Add/Delete Modlines!40
.....................................................................4.2.6 Nav Pad Modulation Window!41
.....................................................................................................4.3 Setlist Window!42
..................................................................................................4.4 Settings Window!43
....................................................................................................4.4.1 Overview!43
.................................................................................................4.4.2 Global Tab!43
.....................................................................................................4.4.3 Keys Tab!44

......................................................................................................4.4.4 I/O Tab!45
...................................................................................................4.4.5 Pedal Tab!47
...................................................................4.5 Menu Bar Options (Advanced Editor)!48
.........................................................................................4.6 Hosted vs. Standalone!50
......................................................................................................4.7 SoftStep Ports!51
...........................................................................................5.0 Appendix!54
...............................................................................................................5.1 Sources!54
.................................................................................5.2 Message Types (Advanced)!59
.................................................................................................................5.3 Tables!62
.....................................................................................................................5.4 Inits!63
....................................................................................................5.5 Display Modes!64
..........................................................................................................5.6 LED Modes!64
................................................................................5.7 External Control Of SoftStep!66
.............................................................................5.7.1 Controlling SoftStep LEDs!66
.........................................................................5.7.2 Controlling SoftStep Display!66
......................................................5.7.3 Changing Presets With Program Changes!67
............................................................................5.7.4 Using The MIDI Expander!67
..............................................................5.8 Factory Presets Guide (Advanced Editor)!67
..............................................................................5.9 MIDI Note Naming Reference!72
............................................................................5.10 - Changes From SoftStep v1.21!73
.............................................................................................5.11 - Safety Precautions!75

Welcome
Hello, and welcome to the SoftStep reference manual! The mere act of opening this document is a
huge step toward mastering the SoftStep.
The SoftStep is a highly customizable foot controller. Control effects racks, MIDI hardware, popular
(and not so popular) audio/video software, and more! Musicians can expand their control while
simultaneously reducing the size of their gear.
The purpose of this document is to provide a resource with helpful, detailed information regarding the
use of the SoftStep and SoftStep software.
Questions? Feedback? Contact Us!
Any questions or feedback that may come up regarding the SoftStep or its software can be directed to
us here:
•Technical Support: www.keithmcmillen.com/support
•General Questions: www.keithmcmillen.com/company/contact
•Forum: forum.keithmcmillen.com

Keith McMillen
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Before You Begin
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1.0 Before You Begin
This section contains a few things to know before diving in to the SoftStep world.
It’s okay to be overwhelmed with all of the options available. The SoftStep is a highly customizable
controller, and with customization comes complexity. Like with all things, improvement comes with
practice.
1.1 What’s In The SoftStep Package?
The following items should be included in each SoftStep box (quantities will be in parentheses):
(1) SoftStep
(1) USB A to USB B cable — 15ft.
(1) SoftStep protective sleeve
(1) 3.5mm (1/8”) to 1/4” expression pedal adapter
1.2 What’s In The MIDI Expander Package?
The following items should be included in each KMI MIDI Expander box:
(1) MIDI Expander
(1) USB Power Supply (5V, 500mA) (includes power converter blades)
(1) USB A to USB B cable (for connecting the Expander to the power supply)
(1) USB A to mini-USB B cable (for connecting the SoftStep to the Expander)
1.3 System Requirements
Hardware
The SoftStep is a class-compliant USB MIDI device —"it will work with any hardware or software
that supports MIDI.
The SoftStep hardware itself will work on any operating system (assuming there is native USB and
MIDI support). It can even work with computers that may not be able to run the editors but still
support USB 2.0 and MIDI (editing presets will have to be done on another computer in this case).
Software
The SoftStep editors have more specific requirements than the SoftStep hardware.
Mac
•Mac OS 10.5 or later

•Intel Core 2 Duo 2.0 GHz or greater
•Roughly 100 MB free hard disk space
•A SoftStep 1 or SoftStep 2 foot controller (both are fully compatible with the 2.0 software)
1.4 Conventions In This Manual
Here are a few notes on the formatting of this document:
•denotes an important note or piece of information —"a “head’s up” symbol.
•Any graphical representation of the SoftStep hardware will use images of the SoftStep 2 hardware
throughout the manual, but all information (unless explicitly noted) applies to SoftStep 1 hardware
as well.
•Important SoftStep-related terms may appear in bold, underlined text —"e.g. setlist. This means
there is a section of the manual related to the emboldened term. Clicking on the text will jump to that
section in the manual.
•The term “port” will be used often throughout this manual. “Port” can refer to a physical port (e.g. a
USB port) or it can refer to a virtual MIDI port or bus (used in audio software on computers/tablets
to send and receive MIDI data).
•When referring to a virtual MIDI “port” or “bus”, the term “port” will be used.
•The term “TRS cable” will appear in the manual —"this is also commonly referred to as a “stereo
cable”.
•Any measurement value followed by double quotes (“) denotes inches. Measurement values
followed by a single quote (‘) denotes feet —"e.g. 1/4” refers to one-quarter inch and 3’ refers to
three feet.
•“MIDI cable” will be used throughout the manual when referring to a 5-pin DIN cable.

Getting Started
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SoftStep Z

2.0 Getting Started
This section will cover information that will help get started with the SoftStep (What? No way!). We
will introduce the SoftStep hardware, the MIDI Expander hardware, and how to connect the SoftStep
to the world.
2.1 SoftStep Hardware
The SoftStep hardware!!!
2.1.1 Overview
(1) Keys
Keys are where the action happens. Step on these to make the SoftStep perform it’s defined
functions.
Each key has a green and red LED (at the northeast corner of the key) for visual feedback.
(2) Nav Pad
Short for “navigation pad”. Press left or right to change presets. Up/Down can be programmed to
perform a number of different functions.
(3) Display
Used for visual feedback. The SoftStep’s display can show what preset is currently loaded, the
name of an activated key, and real-time parameter values.
(4) USB Ports
Used to connect SoftStep to the MIDI world. Connect a KMI MIDI Expander using the Expand port
(mini-USB) or connect to a computer/tablet via the main USB port (the big one).
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(5) Pedal Input
Used to connect an expression pedal to the SoftStep. All input should use a 3.5mm (1/8”) TRS
cable to work properly. Most expression pedals have a stereo 1/4” jack —"an expression pedal
adapter (female 1/4” TRS to male 3.5mm TRS) is included with every SoftStep.
2.1.2 Specs
The “deets”:
Dimensions & Weight
•Dimensions: 4.1” x 17.7” x 0.94” (105mm x 450mm x 24mm)
•Weight: 1.3 lbs (0.59 kg) (approximately)
Power Draw / Requirements
The SoftStep can be powered via the main USB port or the Expander port. It should never be
powered from both ports at the same time —"this may result in damage to the hardware.
Voltage: 5V
Power draw: SoftStep 1 = 105mA,"SoftStep 2 = 140mA (approximate measurements)
Note: There are no user serviceable parts inside the SoftStep. Attempts to open the enclosure
will void the warranty.

2.2 MIDI Expander Hardware
The KMI MIDI Expander is an optional accessory that allows the SoftStep to connect to external MIDI
hardware via MIDI cables.
2.2.1 Overview
(1) MIDI In
MIDI input to the Expander. Incoming MIDI will be passed through the SoftStep and up the USB
connection to a connected computer or tablet —"similar to a MIDI interface. MIDI sent into the
Expander’s input can also be used to control the SoftStep LEDs, display, and presets.
(2) MIDI Out
MIDI output from the Expander. MIDI from the SoftStep (and a connected computer) can be sent
out of this to external MIDI hardware.
(3) Input LED Indicator
Flashes when MIDI is received at the MIDI In port.
(4) Output LED Indicator
Flashes when MIDI is sent out of the MIDI Out port.
(5) Power Port
Used to power the MIDI Expander and an attached SoftStep. Just plug a USB power supply (one
is provided with the Expander package) into an outlet, then connect the power supply to the
POWER port on the Expander with a USB A to B cable (also provided with the Expander).
Note: If nothing is plugged into the EXPAND port when powered, the Expander’s Input and
Output LED Indicators will light up. This is just to indicate that the Expander is being powered —"no
MIDI is actually being output or received. Once a KMI controller is connected to the EXPAND port
they will turn off and behave normally.
MIDI Expander
POWER MIDI In MIDI Out EXPAND
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(6) Expand Port
Used to connect the MIDI Expander to the SoftStep. Just use a mini USB cable to connect the
SoftStep’s Expand port to the Expander’s EXPAND port.
Note: Only KMI MIDI controllers should be connected to the EXPAND port —"other USB MIDI
controllers and USB hubs will not work properly.
2.2.2 Specs
Dimensions & Weight
•Dimensions: 4” x 1.25” x 1.25” (102mm x 32mm x 32mm)
•Weight:"2.5 oz. (71g)

2.3 Connecting SoftStep
The SoftStep can talk to computers and tablets via USB, and MIDI hardware via MIDI cables (KMI
MIDI Expander required). Both methods can be used independently or simultaneously.
2.3.1 To A Computer
Connecting the SoftStep to a computer requires three things: a SoftStep, a computer, and a USB A
to USB B cable (the “classic” USB cable). Simply plug the SoftStep’s main USB port into a USB 2.0
(or greater) port on the computer. The SoftStep will receive power from the computer.
Note: The SoftStep can also be used with a USB hub connected to a computer. It is highly
recommended to use a powered USB hub, not a bus-powered hub. Bus-powered hubs may not be
able to provide enough power to the SoftStep to function properly.
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SoftStep Z
ar = 44100
kr = 4410
ksmps = 10
nchnls = 8
/*-------IVORY-------*/
instr
1
ifreq
=
cpspch(p5)
aglis
expseg
1, p8, 1, p3 - p8, p9
k1
line
0, p3, 5
k2
oscil
k1, p7, 1
k3
linseg
0, p3 * .7, p6, p3 * .3, 0
a1
oscil
k3, (ifreq + k2) * aglis, 1
k4
linseg
0, p3 * .6, 6, p3 * .4, 0
k5
oscil
k4, p7 * .9, 1, 1.4
k6
linen
p6, p3 * .5, p3, p3 * .333
a3
oscil
k6, ((ifreq + .009) + k5) * aglis, 9, .2

2.3.2 To An iPad
Connecting the SoftStep to an iPad is very similar to connecting to a computer, the only difference
is that one more part is needed.
An Apple Lightning to USB Camera Adapter (for iPads with Lightning connectors) or an Apple iPad
Camera Connection Kit (for iPads with the older 30-pin connectors) is required to connect the
SoftStep to an iPad via USB.
Plug the adapter into the iPad, plug the SoftStep’s main USB port into the adapter with a USB A to
B cable, and everything is ready to go.
Note: Some iPad models may not be able to power the SoftStep on its own — the SoftStep
may have to be powered externally with a USB power supply (5V, 500mA). Just plug the
SoftStep’s mini-USB port (the Expand port) into the power supply, then plug the power supply into
a power outlet.
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2.3.3 To MIDI Hardware
A KMI MIDI Expander is required to connect to MIDI hardware via MIDI cables.
1. Connect the SoftStep’s EXPAND port to the EXPAND port on the Expander using a USB A
to mini-B cable.
2. Connect the Expander’s POWER port to a USB power supply (included with Expander
package) using a USB A to B cable.
3. Plug the power supply into a power outlet —"the SoftStep and Expander should power up
4. Use a MIDI cable to connect the Expander’s MIDI OUT to the MIDI IN on the external
hardware. Use a second cable to connect the Expander’s MIDI IN to the MIDI OUT on the
hardware if input to the SoftStep is desired.
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MIDI Expander
POWER MIDI In MIDI Out EXPAND
Keith McMillen
MIDI IN MIDI OUT

2.3.4 To MIDI Hardware + Computer
The SoftStep can be connected to both a computer and external MIDI hardware at the same time
(KMI MIDI Expander required).
1. Connect the SoftStep’s EXPAND port to the EXPAND port on the Expander using a USB A to
mini-B cable.
2. Connect the SoftStep’s main USB port to the computer using a USB A to B cable. The SoftStep
and Expander should power up.
3. Use a MIDI cable to connect the Expander’s MIDI OUT to the MIDI IN on the external MIDI
device.
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MIDI Expander
POWER MIDI In MIDI Out EXPAND
Keith McMillen
MIDI IN MIDI OUT
ar = 44100
kr = 4410
ksmps = 10
nchnls = 8
/*-------IVORY-------*/
instr
1
ifreq
=
cpspch(p5)
aglis
expseg
1, p8, 1, p3 - p8, p9
k1
line
0, p3, 5
k2
oscil
k1, p7, 1
k3
linseg
0, p3 * .7, p6, p3 * .3, 0
a1
oscil
k3, (ifreq + k2) * aglis, 1
k4
linseg
0, p3 * .6, 6, p3 * .4, 0
k5
oscil
k4, p7 * .9, 1, 1.4
k6
linen
p6, p3 * .5, p3, p3 * .333
a3
oscil
k6, ((ifreq + .009) + k5) * aglis, 9, .2

2.4 Factory Presets Overview
The SoftStep comes loaded with a number of factory presets right out of the box. Some cover very
basic functions (program changes, toggles, MIDI notes, pressure), and a few work with some
software/hardware integration examples.
This is just a very brief overview of the factory presets. For more detailed information about each of
the factory presets, please see the Factory Presets Guide section in the Appendix.
2.4.1 The Presets
Use the left and right keys on the Nav Pad to switch between presets.
All factory presets transmit on MIDI channel 1 and are set to output over both USB and MIDI
Expander (if one is connected).
The following presets ship pre-loaded on the SoftStep hardware:
Program Change (PRGM)
Each key outputs a program change message. Use the up and down keys on the Nav Pad to
increment/decrement the program changes being output by ±10’s.
Toggles (TOGL)
Each key outputs a toggling CC message (CCs 20-29). Step on a key and it toggles on, step on
that key again and it toggles off.
Notes (NOTE)
Each key outputs a MIDI note (notes 60-69). Step on a key to send a note on message, release
the key to send a note off message.
Pressure (PRES)
Each key outputs a key’s pressure as a CC message (CCs 110-119). More pressure makes the
value go higher, less pressure makes the value go lower.
ElevenRack Control (11RK)
This preset works with an Avid Eleven Rack processor. A MIDI Expander is required to connect
to the Eleven Rack. The top row of keys turn effects on and off — the bottom row modulates the
effects’ parameters.
Line6 Pod Control (POD)
This preset works with most Line 6 processors, including the Pod. A MIDI Expander is required
to connect to the Pod. The top row of keys turn effects on and off — the bottom row modulates
the effects’ parameters.
Ableton Live Control (LIVE)
This preset works with our custom Ableton Live script. Control the transport with the top row of
keys —"control track volumes with the bottom row.

Instructions on how to install this can be found in the “Extras” folder of the SoftStep 2.0
software package.
2.4.2 Customizing Presets
While the factory presets cover some basic, general functions, some users may desire more
advanced and customized behavior. The SoftStep’s presets can be completely customized using
the SoftStep Basic Editor or the SoftStep Advanced Editor.
The Basic Editor will cover most peoples’ needs — it allows for ten presets where each key can
perform a single function. The Advanced Editor is there when more complex behavior is needed
—"it allows for up to 16 presets where each key can perform multiple functions (all customizable).