Overview
IEC 63035:2017 - MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) specification 1.0 (Abridged Edition, 2015) - defines a hardware and software framework for exchanging symbolic music and control information between musical instruments and other devices (sequencers, computers, lighting controllers, mixers, etc.) using MIDI technology. This IEC edition incorporates the core MIDI 1.0 specification material (the original detailed specification pages provided by the MIDI Manufacturers Association) and provides a complete listing and basic descriptions of defined MIDI messages, plus references to the wider MMA/AMEI documentation.
Key topics
- Hardware and transport: Defines the standard hardware interfaces and notes that while the original electrical connection (MIDI-DIN) is included, other physical transports (USB, FireWire, etc.) are approved by MMA/AMEI for carrying MIDI protocol.
- Data format and message structure: Covers types of MIDI bytes, structure of individual messages, and distinctions between status bytes and data bytes.
- Message categories: Summarizes main message families-Channel messages, System messages, System Exclusive (SysEx) and Universal SysEx-and provides normative annexes listing message definitions.
- Data types and control semantics: Explains common parameters such as Note Number, Velocity, Aftertouch, Pitch Bend, Control Change, and Program Change.
- Channel modes and power-up defaults: Describes receiver/transmitter modes and default conditions after power-up.
- Implementation guidance: Includes instructions for the MIDI Implementation Chart template and normative annexes (Control Change tables, Registered Parameter Numbers, SysEx formats).
Applications
IEC 63035 is practical for anyone implementing or integrating MIDI in audio and multimedia systems:
- Electronic musical instrument manufacturers (keyboards, synthesizers, drum machines) for consistent interoperability.
- Audio software and hardware developers (DAWs, plugins, MIDI interfaces) to implement correct message handling and device profiles.
- Live sound, lighting, and show control integrators using MIDI for control signals and automation.
- System integrators and studios that rely on predictable device behavior (channel modes, power-up defaults, SysEx handling).
- Standards and compliance teams evaluating conformity and interfacing legacy MIDI-DIN with modern transports (USB/FireWire).
Related standards and references
- IEC 60130-9 (connectors for radio and associated sound equipment) - normative reference in IEC 63035.
- MIDI Manufacturers Association (MMA) and Association of Musical Electronics Industry (AMEI) documentation - for extended message definitions, Recommended Practices and trademark/usage guidance.
- IEC webstore and Electropedia for authoritative copies and terminology: webstore.iec.ch, electropedia.org.
IEC 63035 provides a practical, internationally recognized baseline for MIDI 1.0 interoperability - essential reading for implementers who need consistent MIDI message handling, hardware interfaces, and implementation-chart conventions.