PIRATE MIDI BRIDGE4 User manual

THINK LESS. CREATE MORE.
BRIDGE4
MIDI CONTROLLER
USER MANUAL

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This device was created and
designed to empower your
creativi﬚.
It is the result of many long nights and early
mornings. It is born from the desire to
bridge the gap between musician and
instrument, and we want to say a huge
thank you for your support. Our brand is
built around a strong communi﬚ and we
hope you love your new MIDI controller as
much as we do.
The PI ATE MIDI team.
Table of contents .......................................................................... 3
BRIDGE4 Overview ....................................................................... 6
Technical information.................................................................. 7
Hardware Layout........................................................................... 8
Quick Start....................................................................................10
1.Device Interface.......................................................................13
2. Power & Navigation ...............................................................14
3. Overview of Connectors.......................................................17
4. Flexiports .................................................................................19
Flexiport Modes 19
MIDI Out 21
Expression Pedal In 21
Exp-Doubler In 22
Tap Tempo Output 23
Aux Switch In 23
Switch Out 24
MS Relay Out 25
Pulse Clock Out 25
Device Link 25
5. MIDI In/out/thru......................................................................27
MIDI Out 27
MIDI In 27
MIDI Thru 28
6. USB MIDI...................................................................................29
USB (type-C) 29
MIDI Messages 30
7. MESSAGES & MODES .............................................................30
Smart Messages 30
Primary Footswitch Modes 31
Secondary Footswitch Modes 35
TABLE OF CONTENTS
BRIDGE4 User Manual

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TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONT.)
BRIDGE4 User Manual
TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONT.)
BRIDGE4 User Manual
Expand & Improve Your MIDI Routing 36
LFOs 37
Expression Pedals 38
Device Link 39
8. MESSAGE STACKS....................................................................40
MIDI Messages Onboard 40
1. Footswitches 40
2. Expression Pedals 41
3. Bank Messages 44
4. Aux Switch Messages 45
5. Boot Messages 45
9. MIDI Clock ................................................................................46
Setting MIDI Clock Onboard 46
1. Assigning MIDI Clock to a Footswitch 46
2. Assigning MIDI Clock Outputs 47
3. Sending MIDI Clock as Analog Tap Impulses 47
4. Sending MIDI Clock as Beat Sync Pulse 47
10. LFO’s .......................................................................................48
Setting LFOs 48
1. LFO State 49
2. LFO Sync 49
3. LFO Frequency 49
4. LFO Trigger 50
5. LFO Limits 50
6. LFO Shape (waveform) 50
7. LFO Messages 52
8. LFO Modulation Source 52
9. LFO Modulation Target 52
10. LFO Reset 52
11. LFO Step 52
12. Save & Exit 53
11. Switch Out .............................................................................54
12. Aux Switch In ........................................................................55
13. Switch groups .......................................................................57
13. Interface - LEDs ....................................................................60
LED Color Selection 60
Custom LED Colors 60
LED Behaviour 61
14. Interface - Bank Names ......................................................63
15. Interface - UI Mode..............................................................64
16. Interface - Switch Labels....................................................66
17. Interface - Bank Navigation...............................................67
18. Copy/Paste & Templates....................................................68
19. Other Global Settings .........................................................70
MIDI Channel 70
Preserve Bank Switch States 70
Persistent Switch States 70
Transmit Switch States 70
Program Change (PC) Bank Output 71
Switch Hold Time 71
20. Resetting or Updating.........................................................72
Factory Reset 72
Global Settings Reset 72
Updating 72
Troubleshooting 72
Entering Update Mode 73
21. MIDI Implementation..........................................................74
Support & Warranty ...................................................................76

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BRIDGE4 OVERVIEW
introduction to your new device
The BRIDGE4 is a 4-switch MIDI foot controller with RGB LEDs, an OLED screen, and a
super tough aluminium enclosure. It’s made in New South Wales, Australia and was the
result of a successful Kickstarter campaign in 2020.
The BRIDGE4 can send stacks of MIDI messages through different footswitch press
types (Press, Hold, Double-Press etc.) with 100 different bank of switches to scroll
through. This means that the 400+ MIDI messages on each bank can be individually
assigned across the whole device for a total over more than 40,000 unique messages
and controls.
To help you connect to a wide variety of music gear, we’ve included two Flexiports of
our own design. These ¼” (6.35mm) TRS jacks can be set to whatever mode best suits
your setup. From expression pedals to beat sync pulse to switch emulation, you can
use this MIDI controller to control devices that don’t even have MIDI!
With all settings available to easily edit using the onboard display and menus as well
as with the app, we hope you’ll agree that this is perfect for performing live or
playing at home. LINKS TO DOWNLOADS:
https://learn.piratemidi.com/software/downloads
DIMENSIONS
Metric (112x94x63 mm)
Imperial (4.4”x 3.7”x 2.5”)
DISPLAY
OLED (3.2”)
WEIGHT
Metric (335g)
Imperial (11.8 oz.)
POWER REQUIREMENT
9v DC or USB (200mA)
TECHNICAL INFORMATION
all important specification
BOX CONTENTS
1x BRIDGE4 MIDI foot controller
1x 2 metre USB type A to type C cable (black)
4x Self-adhesive Rubber Feet
1x Flexiport Warning Card
1x Getting Started Card

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HARDWARE LAYOUT
quick overview of top interface
4 soft-touch footswitches. No clicking. Work with multiple
press types (double-press, hold, etc)
8 RGB LEDs which you can assign to any colour you like for any
function you like. Flashing, solid, dim etc.
Heavy-duty aluminium enclosure with black anodising.
Scratch-resistant and no flex.
Bright, crisp, and easy to read OLED graphical display.
Menus, icons, scribble strips are all a breeze on this
HARDWARE LAYOUT
quick overview of rear inputs and outputs
2.1mm 9v DC barrel jack - as standard on most effects pedals and
power supplies.
Dedicated 1/8” (3.5mm) TRS MIDI Out conforming to the MIDI.org
specification.
Dedicated 1/8” (3.5mm) TRS MIDI In conforming to the MIDI.org
specification
Flexiports 1 and 2. Multi-function ¼” (6.35mm) TRS jacks which can be
used in a number of different modes.
USB type C (2m type A-to-C cable included) for USB MIDI, editing the
device with the app, and powering the device.
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QUICK START
Getting started with the basics
1. Bank Up/Down
To go to the next bank, press switch 3 and
switch 4 together.
To go to the previous bank, press switch 1
and switch 2 together.
In the default UI, you will see two arrows
on the screen to remind you.
2. Entering the Menu
To enter the onboard menu, hold switch 1
and switch 3 simultaneously.
All settings and features can be set using
the onboard menus.
Hold switch 3&4 to exit the menu.
Check that your BRIDGE4 firmware is up to date. Updates are released
periodically adding new features and bug fixes. Go to: www.learn.piratemidi.
com/software/downloads
QUICK START (CONT.)
quick step-by-step guide to custom the print template
3. Don’t miss the rest!
Many menus and settings have a second or
third page of settings. Always make sure
you haven’t missed vital settings by
scrolling to the right using switch 4 until
you get back to the first position.
4. General Navigation
Icons under or above each switch will show you what function
they will serve.
Generally switch 3&4 is a “back” or “exit” button, and switch 1&2
is “enter” or “select”.
Switches 1 or 2 are up/down or value-changing controls.
Switches 3 or 4 are sideways navigation to go to the next
parameter.
Move Left - FS3 Exit/Back - FS3&4 Move Right - FS3
Down/Decrease - FS1 Save/Edit - FS1&2 Up/Increase - FS2

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1. DEVICE INTERFACE
what it all does
CHAPTER TITLE
short description
Footswitches
Four silent footswitches are the main interface on the BRIDGE4. Rated for over 100,000
presses each, they are able to send different MIDI message stacks for different press
types (Toggle On, Toggle Off, Press, Release, Double Press, Hold, Hold Release etc).
Each switch is able to send nearly 100 MIDI messages per bank:
• Toggle On: 16
• Toggle Off: 16
• Press: 8
• Release: 8
• Hold: 8
• Hold Release: 8
• Double Press: 8
• Secondary Toggle On: 8
• Secondary Toggle Off: 8
• Sequential Steps: 16
OLED Display
A large graphical display allows us to display symbols and icons to make the user
interface easier to use.
The beauty of an OLED is the crisp, high-contrast display. Easily readable from a
distance with no need for an annoying backlight.
By default, the OLED shows the bank name in the centre, and each switch label is set
to “FS ‘x”. Switch labels and bank names are editable through the onboard menus, the
web editor, and our API.
RGB LEDs
Each switch is paired with a curved light pipe that houses 2 independent RGB LEDs.
This means you can choose from millions of colours per switch and combine different
LED states/colours to create your own custom interface. Custom colours can be
created on the device, in the web editor, or sent to the device with the API.
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QUICK START (CONT.)
need to know simple tricks & tips
•CHECK THE MIDI OUTPUTS
When you create a message, make sure you scroll across to the second/third screen
to check that the message is being sent to the correct MIDI outputs (Flexiport 1,
Flexiport 2, TRS, or USB). All outputs are on by default, but if you’re having trouble
sending messages, you should check the outputs. Read more in chapter 8.
•SET FLEXIPORT MODE BEFORE USING FLEXIPORTS
Before you plug something into a Flexiport, make sure you set the Flexiport mode in
“Menu>Global>Flexiports>Flexiport ‘x’>Mode”
You won’t get the function you want unless you set the Flexiport mode. There is no
mode set to the Flexiports by default - you must always set the mode.
•SET BANKING PROGRAM CHANGE OUTPUTS
By default, the BRIDGE will send Program Change (PC) MIDI messages out all 4 MIDI
outputs when you change the bank (corresponding to the BRIDGE bank number). If
you want to turn some/all outputs off, or change the MIDI channel that the PC are
sent on, go to:
“Menu>Global>MIDI>Banking PC Outputs”
•SWITCH GROUPS AND BROADCAST/RESPONSE SETTINGS
When modifying switch group settings, the broadcast/response settings may seem
overwhelming. If you leave the defaults unedited, the switch will behave in a simple
“exclusive” mode where only one switch will be on at a time. If you want to learn
what these powerful settings are capable of, read more in chapter 13.
Check that your BRIDGE4 firmware is up to date. Updates are released
periodically adding new features and bug fixes. Go to: www.learn.piratemidi.
com/software/downloads

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let’s turn this thing on and get going
2. POWER & NAVIGATION 2. POWER & NAVIGATION (CONT.)
let’s turn this thing on and get going
There are 100 banks (0-99). Banking up from bank 99 will return you to bank 0.
Banking down from bank 0 will send you to bank 99.
Opening the Menu
To enter the menu, press and hold down switches 1 & 3 simultaneously (as pictured
below). You will know you’ve entered the menu when the screen layout changes.
You can power your BRIDGE4 with either a USB cable, or a centre-negative 9v DC jack
(2.1mm) commonly used for guitar pedals.
Centre-Negative DC Power USB Power
Switching Power Sources
The BRIDGE4 uses smart power switching so you can have both plugged in at once, and
if you need to remove one or the other, the unit will seamlessly switch power sources
without shutting down or restarting.
Power Requirement
If you’re using a 9v DC power supply, please make sure
it is able to supply the required 200mA.
Basic Navigation
Bank Up & Bank Down
As indicated by the arrows at the bottom of the OLED screen, pressing switches 3 & 4 at
the same time will advance to the next bank (Bank Up) and pressing switches 1 & 2 at
the same time will go to the previous bank (Bank Down). This is indicated by the two
arrows displayed on the screen (visible on below diagram)

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2. POWER & NAVIGATION (CONT.) 3. OVERVIEW OF CONNECTORS
All the possible connections
USB (type-C)
The BRIDGE4 can be powered by USB, and is also a class-compliant USB MIDI device.
This means it will be recognised as a MIDI device without any drivers. Use it with your
DAW, plugins, or music apps.
TRS MIDI In
A 1/8” (3.5mm) TRS Jack is designated as a dedicated MIDI input. It conform to the
MIDI Specification (Type A).
TRS MIDI Out
A 1/8” (3.5mm) TRS Jack is designated as a dedicated MIDI input. It conform to the
MIDI Specification (Type A). It can power a CME WIDI device.
9v DC (centre-negative)
A 2.1mm centre-negative barrel jack (common with standard guitar pedal power
supplies). Requires 200mA.
Press switch 1or switch 2to navigate the menu (note the arrows on screen).
Press switch 3or 4to change bank or navigate horizontally in the menu (note the
arrows on the screen.
Press switch 1&2 to select or set (like an ‘enter’ or ‘return’ key on a computer).
Press switch 3&4 to ‘go back’ to the previous menu screen or exit the menu.
Hold switch 3&4 on any menu screen to completely exit the menu.
Second-Screen Settings
When editing parameters like MIDI message details, LFO settings etc. there may be a
second (or third) screen of settings. To access these pages, use the left and right
arrows on switch 3&4to navigate horizontally across the screen.
These pages are “circular” and navigating across in one direction will always bring you
back to the place you started.
That’s the end of the basic navigation instructions. After this you should be able to
figure out how to navigate all the menus and settings. You can watch the tutorial
videos on our website or YouTube channel for a visual explanation.

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All the possible connections
3. OVERVIEW OF CONNECTORS (CONT.) 4. FLEXIPORTS
Understanding Flexiport modes
The extreme flexibility of the BRIDGE4 is due partly to the two Flexiports we’ve
included. The Flexiport is a multi-function TRS port that we’ve designed (and named) to
give you a truly flexible experience with our devices.
Flexiports will be included in most PIRATE MIDI devices and will offer the same
functionality across all devices. So if you see the name Flexiport you know what it
does.
Flexiport Modes
Each Flexiport on the BRIDGE4 is a 6.35mm (¼”) TRS Jack. They have 11 modes (and
counting) that are assignable in the Menu under “Menu > Global > Flexiports >
Flexiport ‘x’ > Mode”
1. MIDI Out - Type A
(can power CME WIDI devices. Type A is the MIDI TRS standard.)
2. MIDI Out - Type B
(As used by Arturia, Novation and others)
3. MIDI Out - Tip Active
(Empress, Alexander Pedals, Meris, Bondi Effects and more)
4. MIDI Out - Ring Active
(Chase Bliss Audio)
5. Device Link
(connect multiple PIRATE MIDI devices together)
6. Exp-Doubler In
(Enables two expression pedal inputs per Flexiport with our Exp-Doubler device)
7. Exp In
(Single TRS expression pedal input)
8. Aux Switch In
(1, 2, or 3 switch TRS aux switches supported - add more footswitches to your
TRS Flexiports 1 & 2
A ¼” (6.35mm) TRS jack with 11 modes (and counting):
• MIDI Out
(can power CME WIDI devices)
• Type A
• Type B
• Tip Active
• Ring Active
• Exp In
(Single Expression Pedal Input)
• Exp-Doubler In
(Enables two expression pedal inputs per Flexiport with our Exp-Doubler device)
• Aux Switch In
(1, 2, or 3 switches supported)
• Switch Out
(Send TRS switch emulation to non-MIDI devices with an external control jack -
Helix, Boss, etc)
• Tap Tempo Out
(MIDI Clock as switch output)
• Sync Pulse Out
(Square wave output for syncing non-MIDI devices to MIDI Clock such as
Teenage Engineering Pocket Operator series)
• Device Link
(connect multiple PIRATE MIDI devices together)
• MS Relay
(Send TRS commands to your Morningstar Omniport Relay Interface)

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Understanding Flexiport modes
4. FLEXIPORTS (CONT.) 4. FLEXIPORTS (CONT.)
Understanding Flexiport modes
MIDI Out
When set to ‘’MIDI Out’ mode, the Flexiport is a dedicated MIDI TRS Output. There are 4
MIDI Out modes: Type A, Type B, Tip Active, & Ring Active. You can choose the MIDI Out
mode in the Global settings menu:
Menu > Global > Flexiports > Flexiport ‘x’ > Mode > MIDI Out (type x)
TRS A is the standard MIDI specification for TRS MIDI. It use the ‘Tip’ to send MIDI.
However, because MIDI over TRS was introduced before the specification was decided,
there are some brands that send on the ‘Ring.’ This is called TRS B.
Again, there are other brands who do not adhere to the specification and only use two
pins, instead of three to send MIDI data. Brands such as Empress, Meris, Bondi Effects,
Alexander Pedals, and Chase Bliss Audio use either Tip active or Ring active modes.
If you are unsure which pedals or devices use which mode, a quick google will probably
answer your question. If you’re having trouble finding out, feel free to ask in our
Facebook group which will get the fastest response, or you can ask us in an email to
[e-mail]
Cables can easily be found online that swap TRS A to TRS B, but if you don’t have any
on hand, or it’s not convenient, then switching in the BRIDGE4 firmware is quick and
easy. Plus it doesn’t cost anything!
Once the Flexiport is in MIDI Out mode, any messages that have their MIDI set to be
output to that Flexiport will be transmitted out that Flexiport when the messages are
triggered.
Expression Pedal In
When set to ‘’Exp In” mode, the Flexiport will receive analog expression pedal input for
easy conversion to MIDI. Set the Flexiport to “Exp In” mode in the Global settings
menu:
Menu > Global > Flexiports > Flexiport ‘x’ > Mode > Exp In
controller)
9. Switch Out
(Send TRS switch emulation to non-MIDI devices)
10. MS Relay
(Send TRS commands to your Morningstar Omniport Relay Interface)
11. Tap Tempo Out
(MIDI Clock as switch output)
12. Pulse Clock Out
(Send MIDI clock as a square wave to sync non-MIDI devices)
WARNING: Flexiports offer many operating modes. Not all of these modes are
compatible with external devices.
In particular, the Switch Out mode allows a Flexiport to emulate a TRS switch output.
This is designed to control devices that have an auxiliary switch input, or tap tempo
footswitch jack where the device that is connected does not have more than 3.3 volts
on the jack the Flexiport will connect to. This can be tested using a TRS patch cable
and a multimeter.
Many devices use larger operating voltage and/or currents that the 3.3 volts that a
Flexiport is able to handle. Please go to piratemidi.com/compatibility for a list of
devices we have checked for compatibility. Please contact us to see if your device may
be compatible with this mode.
A Flexiport can also be damaged when using an incorrect mode with an external device
attached. Make sure that you have enabled the correct Flexiport mode BEFORE
connecting an external device.
Ignoring these warnings may void your warranty. Please make sure to contact us if
you’re unsure. Email [e-mail]

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Understanding Flexiport modes
4. FLEXIPORTS (CONT.) 4. FLEXIPORTS (CONT.)
Understanding Flexiport modes
An expression pedal usually works with three contacts: Tip, Ring, and Sleeve. The Ring
supplies power, the Sleeve is connected to ground, and the Tip transmits the position
of the pedal. Our Exp-Doubler supplies power to the Ring of your expression pedals
which leaves an extra slot on the Flexiport for receiving the pedal position. Across two
Flexiports this means up to 4 expression pedals can be used! Two per Flexiport.
This is why Expression pedals are labelled as 1A and 1B, 2A and 2B.
Tap Tempo Output
When set to “Tap Tempo Output” mode, the Flexiport is a dedicated analog TRS output
which sends switch impulses synced to the chosen MIDI clock (A or B). It can be put in
Clock A or Clock B mode in the Global settings menu:
Menu > Global > Flexiports > Flexiport ‘x’ > Mode > Tap Tempo Out > MIDI Clock ‘x’
Now, connect a TRS cable from the Flexiport to the device you wish to send the tap
tempo to, and you should see the tap tempo changing on your non-MIDI device.
Other Devices that accept Tap Tempo Out include: MXR Carbon Copy Deluxe, BOSS DD-
20 Gigadelay
Aux Switch In
When set to ‘’Aux Switch” mode, the Flexiport will receive auxiliary switch input for
extra footswitch controls. Set the Flexiport mode in the Global settings menu:
Menu > Global > Flexiports > Flexiport ‘x’ > Mode > Aux Switch
You will now see the Expression Pedal Graph in the standard UI for the Flexiport you
have put in Exp In mode.
Please note that this is designed to work with TRS expression pedals only. To use a
volume pedal, you will need a TRS Y-Splitter. TS Expression pedals will not work.
Expression Pedal Calibration
Expression pedals will sometimes not register their full range on different devices they
connect to. Calibrating your expression pedal will make sure that toe-down is equal to
the maximum MIDI value (127) and heel-down is equal to the minimum value (0).
Calibrate your expression pedal in the menu:
Menu > Global > Global Exp Pedals > Exp ‘xx’ > Calibrate
Follow the on-screen instructions to calibrate the pedal. The device will instruct you to
put the pedal at the full toe-down position for 5 seconds, and then the heel-down
position for 5 seconds.
Exp-Doubler In
When set to “Exp-Doubler In” mode, usage is the same as “Exp In” including calibration
etc. but this mode can only be used with the PIRATE MIDI Exp-Doubler.
Menu > Global > Flexiports > Flexiport ‘x’ > Mode > Exp-Doubler In
The Standard UI will now show two Expression Pedal Graphs as pictured below.

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Understanding Flexiport modes
4. FLEXIPORTS (CONT.) 4. FLEXIPORTS (CONT.)
Understanding Flexiport modes
Global settings menu:
Menu > Global > Flexiports > Flexiport ’x’ > Mode > Switch Out
Some devices that have a footswitch input are: BOSS MS-3, MXR Carbon Copy Deluxe,
Line6 HX Stomp, BOSS DD-20 Gigadelay.
When in Switch Out mode, the Standard UI will show a dynamic tip & ring icon which
will fill the tip, ring, or tip & ring when those commands are triggered.
Assigning ‘Switch Out’ Actions to a Footswitch
Once you have set the Flexiport mode, you can set any message on any press type as a
Smart Message with “TRS Out” function. Then choose None,Tip,Ring, or Tip+Ring as
the switch action that will be triggered by that Smart Message.
See chapter 8 to learn about adding messages.
MS Relay
Use this mode to send switch signal to the Morningstar Relay Interface device. Use
Smart Message “Relay Out” when this Flexiport mode is activated.
Pulse Clock Out
Use this mode to send MIDI clock as a beat sync pulse. This method of sync is used by
brands like Teenage Engineering (Pocket Operator series), Korg (volca series) and
others. Some devices use 2 pulses per quarter note, and some use 4 pulses per quarter
note.
The BRIDGE4 currently only sends 2 pulses per quarter note, but we plan to update this
with the option to change the number of pulses per quarter note.
Device Link
(Device Link is not yet fully featured or implemented. Please wait for a future firmware
update for more features)
Single, double or triple auxiliary switches will work in this mode. Plug your aux switch
into your Flexiport and then assign it a function or MIDI command:
Menu > Global > Aux Switches > Aux Switch ‘x’
(For global Aux messages)
Menu > Aux Switches > Aux Switch ‘x’
(For bank-level Aux messages)
Using these menus you will now be able to assign messages for up to 3 auxiliary
switches (Tip, Ring, Tip+Ring). The available messages are Press, Hold, Toggle On, and
Toggle Off.
These messages are available to configure individually for every bank, but also
globally. This means that each switch can send 2 messages at once for press, toggles,
and holds.
All message types, including the new (very powerful) smart messages, can be assigned
to Aux Switches.
When in Aux Switch mode, the Standard UI will show dynamic switch icons as pictured
below. The centre of the circle will fill when a press is registered, and the circle will be
filled completely when a switch hold is registered.
9. Switch Out
When set to ‘’Switch Out” mode, the Flexiport will act like an analog switch. This can be
used to control functions on non-MIDI pedals that have a switch input like a tap tempo
footswitch in or some other function. Set the Flexiport to ”Switch Out” mode in the

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Sending & receiving MIDI messagesUnderstanding Flexiport modes
5. MIDI IN/OUT/THRU4. FLEXIPORTS (CONT.)
devices interact as if they’re in the same group.Your BRIDGE4 has dedicated MIDI in
and out TRS jacks.
MIDI Out
3.5mm TRS MIDI is used to save space on the BRIDGE4. If you need to convert from TRS
to DIN5, adapters are available online or on our website.
The MIDI out connector on the BRIDGE4 is a MIDI out only. It cannot be changed to
have any other features or become a MIDI in.
It conforms to the MIDI specification and is capable of powering CME WIDI devices like
the WIDI Master or the WIDI Jack.
To send a MIDI message out of this jack, make sure that “TRS” is turned to “on” on the
second-screen settings of your chosen MIDI message. This output is activated by
default on new messages, but when editing an existing message, it’s best to check that
the correct output is activated.
MIDI In
The dedicated MIDI In on the BRIDGE4 is a 3.5mm (1/8”) TRS Jack. Like the MIDI Out, it
is not able to be changed to another function. It is a permanent MIDI In. It accepts any
kind of MIDI message, and depending on the ‘Thru’ routing (detailed in the next
section) those messages can be directly sent to any of the available MIDI outs.
This MIDI In complies with the MIDI Specification for TRS MIDI (type A).
External MIDI Control
Using the MIDI commands detailed in the “MIDI Implementation” chapter at the end of
this manual, you can send MIDI commands from another device to the BRIDGE4 via the
MIDI In (or USB) to control the device.
When set to “Device Link” mode, the Flexiport acts as a high-speed communication
port to link two PIRATE MIDI devices for transfer of MIDI messages and other
commands. Activate Device Link mode in the menu:
Menu > Global > Flexiports > Flexiport ‘x’ > Mode > Device Link
Device Link is able to sync bank changes, bank names, merge switch groups to interact
between devices, and stream MIDI from one device to the MIDI out of a different
device.
Setting the Main/Satellite Roles
To choose which device will broadcast it’s bank name and act as the Main device, go to:
Menu > Global > Device Link
Device Link Settings
In the above-mentioned menu, there are currently 4 options after the Main/Satellite
choice.
Bank Name
Temporarily overwrites the displayed bank name on the Satellite device with the bank
name of the Main device when connected to the Device Link network. Note that the
name is not replaced, and when disconnected the original bank names are retained on
the satellite device.
Bank Navigation
Synchronise bank changes between devices. Similar to how a PC message would
normally cause a bank change, but without using MIDI.
MIDI Receive (RX)
MIDI messages are received via the high-speed device link connection, and output to
the MIDI outputs as per the MIDI Thru Flexi1/2 routing set in the MIDI Thru menu. To
send a message to the device link network, make sure the message’s outputs have the
Flexiport set to “on”. If Device Link is through Flexiport 2, make sure the message
outputs have flexiport 2 set to “on.”
Footswitch Groups
Switch Groups are merged across the network. Members of group ‘x’ (e.g. 1) on all

MIDI Thru
There is no dedicated MIDI Thru jack on the BRIDGE4, however the digital MIDI Thru
routing is very flexible.
To set the MIDI Thru routing go to:
Menu > Global > MIDI > Thru Routing > ‘TRS In’ or ‘USB In’
This menu allows you to choose which MIDI Outs (Flexi 1, Flexi 2, TRS, USB) the MIDI
messages received on the chosen input (USB or TRS In) will be sent to.
For example, if you choose to turn on MIDI Thru routing from the USB In to the TRS out,
any message received on the USB In will be sent to the TRS out. But it will not be sent
to the USB out or the Flexiport unless they are also set to ‘on’ in the Thru routing
settings.
Sending & receiving MIDI messages
5. MIDI IN/OUT/THRU (CONT.)
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Connecting to computers, tablets, and phones
6. USB MIDI
Your BRIDGE4 is a class-compliant USB MIDI device. This means you can plug it into
any kind of USB host (Windows, Mac OS, iOS, Android) and it will automatically be
recognised as a MIDI device to control or receive messages from any DAW, app or
plugin.
USB (type-C)
USB MIDI requires a USB host device. A host device can be a computer, tablet, phone,
or some kind of USB MIDI host box designed to link a pedal with USB directly to a MIDI
controller without needing a computer-like device.
The BRIDGE4 does not offer itself as a USB host and therefore cannot be directly linked
from USB to USB on pedals such as the Zoom multistomp series.
A USB host device like the CME WIDI UHOST will be a great addition to your BRIDGE4.
Plug it into your USB port and go wireless! It also means that as a USB host device, you
can connect the WIDI UHOST to a WIDI Jack or similar and use the USB MIDI in/out as
another general MIDI in/out to the device the WIDI Jack is plugged into.
The USB port receives power as well as USB MIDI.
Note: iPads/iPhones/Android etc. may not provide enough power from their USB port
to power the BRIDGE4. In that case, you would need to power it via a powered USB
hub or the DC jack.

You can program all the functions of your BRIDGE4 with the onboard menus or the web
editor. We’ve made both methods as straightforward as possible so you can quickly get
up and running. Here’s an overview of what you can do when programming your
BRIDGE4. Step-by-step instructions for these methods will be covered in later sections.
MIDI Messages
Note On, Note Off, Poly Pressure (Aftertouch), Control Change (CC), Program
Change (PC), Channel Pressure, and Pitch Bend messages can be set as the message
type for any MIDI message on the BRIDGE4.
In addition to the types above, real-time messages such as MIDI clock, start & stop
messages can be sent when a footswitch is set to “MIDI Clock” mode.
MIDI thru functions will pass through any and all valid MIDI data, even if it happens to
be a data type that the BRIDGE4 does not yet support.
MIDI Notes are numbered with C3 = Note #60. Please note than some manufacturers will mark C4
as Note #60, so if you’re having trouble, please take this offset into consideration when testing any
issues you might have. Setting C3 instead of C4 or F#2 instead of F#3 may solve the issue.
Smart Messages
Along with MIDI messages, you can also control complex features and internal
functions of the BRIDGE4 with smart messages. Smart messages can be set to:
• Bank Up
• Bank Down
• Bank Select (Go To Bank)
• TRS Switch (Off, Tip, Ring, or Tip+Ring)
• Relay Interface (Off, Tip, Ring, or Tip+Ring)
• Switch On
• Switch Off
• Switch Toggle
• Reset Sequential
• Set Step Sequential
• Increment Sequential Step
What can you do? How can you do it?
7. MESSAGES & MODES
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What can you do? How can you do it?
7. MESSAGES & MODES (CONT.)
• Decrement Sequential Step
• Queue Next Sequential Step
• Queue Sequential Step
• Reset Scrolling
• Set Value Scrolling
• Increment Scrolling Value
• Decrement Scrolling Value
• Queue Scrolling Value
• Queue Next Scrolling Value
• Increment Expression Message
• Decrement Expression Message
• Go to Expression Message
• Set UI mode (Simple or Extended UI)
Primary Footswitch Modes
Each footswitch has 7 possible modes which are set in the switch config menu and can
be customised to be different for all 100 banks. They are indicated by the Primary LED.
These are set in the switch config menu:
Menu > Switches > Switch ‘x’ > Config
Toggle
This is the default switch mode. In this mode there are 4 different switch press types:
Toggle On, Toggle Off, Press, Release. With each press, the state of the switch is
toggled to be the opposite of the state it was in (On > Off & Off > On).
When setting MIDI messages in these stacks, the number of messages you can add to
the stacks are:
Toggle On: 16
Toggle Off: 16
Press: 8
Release: 8
The Primary LED will be toggled between On and Off along with the switch state.
In the Global settings, you can choose whether changing banks will preserve the

toggle states of switches, or whether all switches are reset when changing banks.
Menu > Global > Interface > Preserve Bank States
Momentary
This sets a switch to ignore ‘Toggle On’ and ‘Toggle Off’ messages and acts as a switch
that turns on only when being pressed. Each press will trigger the ‘Press’ message
stack. All other message stacks are still able to be triggered by double pressing,
holding etc.
This mode is useful for loopers, sustain, sending midi notes as chords, or any MIDI
control that requires a momentary action.
Message limits are unchanged. The Primary LED will be turned on when the switch is
being pressed, and will be off when not being pressed.
Tap Tempo
This sets a switch to control your choice of MIDI clock A or B. In this mode, the switch
label will show the Name (A or B) and the current tempo.
Tapping the footswitch will act like a tap tempo switch - changing the tempo in time
with your taps. The primary LED (left) will flash to show the current tempo. The colour
of the LED can be customised.
Holding down the footswitch will start or stop the MIDI clock. The secondary LED
(right) will be lit or unlit to show whether the clock is running (LED on) or stopped (LED
off).
If the MIDI clock is being sent as MIDI messages, the Start and Stop commands will
send the ‘Start’ and ‘Stop’ MIDI messages. If the clock is being sent as Tap Tempo Out,
Sync Pulse Out, or another non-MIDI type, the pulses will be started and stopped when
the Start and Stop commands are sent by holding the switch down.
Sequential
This mode will activate each message in the “Sequential” message stack individually,
one at a time, when you press the footswitch. You have the option of making the last
What can you do? How can you do it?
7. MESSAGES & MODES (CONT.)
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7. MESSAGES & MODES (CONT.)
few messages repeat in a loop or reversing the messages back to the first step. You can
use a maximum of 16 steps.
Example:
In a message stack consisting of 3 messages, message 1 will be sent on the first press,
message 2 will be sent on second press, message 3 will be sent on third press, and
then message 1 will be sent on the fourth press - starting the sequence over again.
Example 2:
In a message stack consisting of 3 messages for controlling an audio looper, a “record”
message will be sent on the first press, a “play” message will be sent on second press,
an “overdub” message will be sent on third press, and then subsequent presses will
continue to cycle between “play” and “overdub” without going back to the “record”
step.
Direction
Forward will send all sequential steps from first to last. Reverse will send steps from
last to first. Pendulum will go from first to last, and then reverse the sequence from
last to first.
Send
Always will send the sequential step message/s immediately as the step is selected.
Secondary changes this so that the message/s are only sent when the secondary
switch function (e.g. Hold) is activated. Use this to queue a step and send it when
you’re ready to fire the message. Likewise Primary will specify that the message/s will
be sent when the Primary switch action is triggered.
Repeat
This option chooses what happens after reaching the end of the sequential step list.
Last 2 &Last 3 will repeat the last 2 or 3 steps in the sequence. Useful for live looping
where the first message or two may start the recording mode, and the rest of the
commands are used for overdubbing and recording new loops. All will simply cycle
through the steps again after reaching the end of the “direction.”
Sequential Linked
This mode lets you link to another Sequential mode footswitch within the current bank,

but change parameters such as the direction or the send mode. Useful for having two
switches linked for forwards/reverse switch pairs.
Scrolling
This mode uses the “Scrolling” message stack and will scroll the value of any messages
placed in the stack. This can be useful for scrolling through modes or presets or
snapshots on other apps or devices. You can use a maximum of 16 scrolling messages.
Direction
Forward will send all values from Min to Max. Reverse will send values from Max to
Min. Pendulum will go from Min to Max, and then reverse from Max to Min.
Send
Always will send the scrolled message immediately as the scroll is initiated.
Secondary changes this so that the message is only sent when the secondary switch
function (e.g. Hold) is activated. Use this to queue a step and send it when you’re ready
to fire the message. Likewise Primary will specify that the message/s will be sent
when the Primary switch action is triggered.
Min/Max
This limits the values that the scroll will cover.
Step Size
This option sets the increment/decrement size of the scrolling value. Value can be set
from 1-32. If the current value is 0 and the step size is 3, the next value sent after 0 will
be 3. If the step size is 32, the values 0-127 will be covered in 4 presses.
Scrolling Linked
This mode lets you link to another Scrolling mode footswitch within the current bank,
but change the direction of the scroll and the send mode. Useful for having two
switches linked for forwards/reverse switch pairs.
What can you do? How can you do it?
7. MESSAGES & MODES (CONT.)
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What can you do? How can you do it?
7. MESSAGES & MODES (CONT.)
Secondary Footswitch Modes
Each footswitch also has 4 secondary modes which use the secondary LED to signal
their state. To access these settings, scroll horizontally to the next page using switch 4
and switch 6 when you are in the Switch Config settings page.
Double Tap Toggle
This mode activates the “Secondary Toggle On” and “Secondary Toggle Off” message
stacks when you double tap the switch. This will activate the secondary LED with a
toggle behaviour like the primary LED toggle behaviour.
This behaviour allows for two different toggle message stacks to be accessed using a
single footswitch (Primary and Secondary toggle). Secondary Toggle stacks each have
an 8-message limit.
Hold Toggle
This mode activates the “Secondary Toggle On” and “Secondary Toggle Off” message
stacks when you hold the switch. This will activate the secondary LED with a toggle
behaviour like the primary LED toggle behaviour.
This behaviour allows for two different toggle message stacks to be accessed using a
single footswitch (Primary and Secondary toggle) Hold time is adjustable in the Global
Interface settings. Secondary Toggle stacks each have an 8-message limit.
Double Tap Momentary
This mode allows you to activate the Double Tap message stack with a double press of
a footswitch. The secondary LED will light up momentarily to confirm that the double
press action and message stack has been triggered. Double-tap message stack has an
8-message limit.
Hold Momentary
This mode allows you to activate the Hold message stack with a long press of a
footswitch. The secondary LED will light up momentarily to confirm that the hold
action has been triggered. Hold time is adjustable in the Global Interface settings.
Hold and Hold Release message stacks have an 8-message limit.

Note: All message stacks will still be visible when editing MIDI messages, but the
footswitch mode will determine which stacks are able to be activated/sent by
footswitch presses.
Expand & Improve Your MIDI Routing
Each message can be individually tailored to go to any combination of the MIDI outputs
available. When creating a message, turn the desired MIDI output/s (USB, TRS, Flexi 1,
Flexi 2) ‘On’ or ‘Off’ to create different streams of MIDI messages from one switch
press.
Example: Output the first 16 messages from Flexi 1, the second 16 from Flexi 2, and
the third 16 from the TRS MIDI out. By using all 16 MIDI channels on each output
(message 1/channel 1, message 2/channel2) this will result in 48 different devices able
to be MIDI controlled by a single footswitch press with no conflicting MIDI channels.
What can you do? How can you do it?
7. MESSAGES & MODES (CONT.)
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What can you do? How can you do it?
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LFOs
Low Frequency Oscillators are not just for sound waves. With MIDI messages, we can
oscillate the value data at low frequencies to modulate the MIDI data automatically
and create ‘moving’ MIDI messages.
For example, a TC Electronics Plethora X5 has 5 knobs which are also controllable with
MIDI CCs. By applying the LFO to one of those MIDI CCs, the BRIDGE4 can continually
(and automatically) ‘move’ that knob. Many effects units have parameters that can be
controlled in this way.
The BRIDGE4 LFOs can be set to activate with the Primary or Secondary switch
function. This can product a “toggle” type or “momentary” type effect (i.e. press once
to turn on, press again to turn off, OR press to activate, release to stop) The LFO will
oscillate all possible MIDI messages that are in the chosen MIDI message stack.
See chapter 8 to learn how to edit and view message stacks
All 4 LFOs can be simultaneously active.
The LFOs can be linked to MIDI clock A, MIDI clock B, or set with an independent
frequency from 0.1hz to 10hz. Min/Max value limits can be set to limit the range of
oscillation, and the waveform can be changed between sine, triangle, saw, ramp,
square, and random.
Adjust the steps to change the resolution of the modulation, and choose whether to
reset the waveform after each stop, or pick up where the wave was paused.
With six LFOs running on a bank and flexible MIDI routing, you can oscillate nearly 100
MIDI messages on each of the 100 banks! But you will have to be careful of the
limitations of MIDI itself. Being such an old protocol, it takes approximately 1ms per
MIDI message and can become quickly overloaded with LFO data.
If you are experiencing stuttering, try increasing the step size of the LFO and trying
again.
Tip: you could add a fourth ‘stream’ of 16 MIDI messages with the USB MIDI out
- this could be with a CME UHOST, or directly to software of some kind.

Expression Pedals
With each Flexiport able to take an expression pedal input, or an Exp-Doubler input,
you can do a lot with expression pedals on a BRIDGE4!
Each expression pedal can control a stack of bank messages and a stack of global
messages. Each stack of 16 expression messages means you can control 32 messages
per expression pedal.
Each individual message can be routed to any selection (or all) of the available MIDI
outputs, and can be set with min/max limits and linear, log, or anti-log interpolation
curve. If you like, you can also reverse the sweep so that the lowest value will be sent
at the toe-down position and the highest value at the heel-down position.
As an example, you could have an expression pedal that controls a global CC7 (volume)
message, and another expression pedal that controls the tremolo depth of another
effect, but is limited to a range of 40%-70%. This same expression pedals could
simultaneously modulate reverb size, time, and pre-delay, and perhaps also link to a
low pass filter on an EQ effect.
For a truly ‘experimental’ sound, try linking 16 different parameters to one expression
pedal, all with different min/max limits and sweep curves!
You can also use smart messages on a footswitch to scroll through the messages in an
expression message stack one at a time, or select a specific expression message. For
example, you could have an Aux switch which scrolls between the 16 expression
messages. 16 expression pedals for the price of one (plus a small footswitch of course).
Aux Switches
An Aux switch, connected to a Flexiport, can have up to 3 switches using a TRS cable.
The BRIDGE6 can register both press, toggle and hold events from an Aux Switch.
The press, toggle, and hold events can trigger one message each (including smart
messages) per bank, and there is also a global setting for each message type.
This means you could use two Aux switches to add 6 more switches to your BRIDGE6
and each of those switches can send 8 more messages, including triggering other
What can you do? How can you do it?
7. MESSAGES & MODES (CONT.)
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switches (or switch groups).
Boot Messages & Boot Delay
You can add up to 16 messages of any type that are sent as soon as your BRIDGE6 is
turned on. This is useful for making sure your connected gear is set to a “default” or
“beginning” state without having to check everything.
Set the Boot messages at:
Menu > Global > Boot Messages
Boot delay is a complimentary setting found on the second page of the General UI
settings at:
Menu > Global > Interface > General UI > Boot delay
You can increment the boot delay by 100ms from 0ms to 20000ms (20 seconds) to
allow other gear to power on before the BRIDGE6 sends the Power-on messages.
Device Link
Connect two or more PIRATE MIDI devices via Flexiport (in Device Link mode) to enable
high-speed MIDI input/output sharing, bank change sync, bank name sync, UI settings
sync, and other features to come!
Want a MIDI controller with 10 switches? No problem, connect a BRIDGE6 and a
BRIDGE4 with a TRS cable and away you go.
Device Link automatically detects what devices are connected and what their features
are so you get an easy, flexible setup no matter what your combination of devices may
be.