My tryst with hacking a Zoom MS-70CDR
You feel like kicking yourself when you know you have a great piece of equipment, with the most amazing sounds but the usability is downright hard...KICK KICK KICK
I picked up the Zoom-MS70CDR and instantly fell in love with it.. the sheer size of it, for that much amount of power is actually insane... it is so small that it snugly fits in to any small sized pedal board. But the only draw back of this device is the usability.. it is not very good to say the least..
I wrote to Zoom and asked them if they plan to change anything about the usability, I gave them some suggestions too, but they came back with ..
Dear Sir,
Thank you for your suggestion.
We do not want a price boost by the increase in functions and the chips for the converter. Anyway your opinion has been noted. We will forward your email to person in charge for future reference.
Sincerely yours,
ZOOM Corporation <<
I kinda felt.. okkkkkkkkkk... I understand..
Being the electronics freak, I wondered, can I hack this little unit... :) the mere thought brought a smile....
So began my tryst....
I first tried a bunch of things and then when I read their manual. it said something like the USB port can be used only for upgrading the firmware...I thought if there could be someway that the unit can respond to something.. I tried various things but then I found out it was responding to MIDI..ah .. Now things got a little interesting... I connected my laptop and started sending in MIDI messages to see, if they respond to something (the old hacking trick) and then it did.. I jumped off my seat... All I had to do was to see what MIDI signals to send to get the unit to do what I want...
The rest was pretty simple (at least to write it down.. :) )
I noted down what midi messages that I should send and then dusted off my trusty old Arduino...(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arduino), started coding and with some help from the giants in Arduino, MIDI and USB.. I was all set..
Some notable people that I want to acknowledge are (they shared their libraries)
(Oleg Mazurov - www.CircuitsatHome.com)
(Yuuichi Akagawa -https://github.com/YuuichiAkagawa )
(Kristian Lauszus - http://blog.tkjelectronics.dk/)
Project details:
Description / goal
Control the patches in the 70 CDR via a foot controller.
In the 70 CDR if you have for e.g. 6 patches... you need to go from 1, 2, 3, .....6, 1...
What I wanted is have a foot controller with like 4 switches to choose 4 patches.. and one bank switch to choose between 2 banks (giving me 8 patch switching with 2 foot presses)
I also wanted to disengage a patch and make it bypassed if needed.
Rough idea
Have 4 N/O switches for patch selection (I have used some cheap switches that I get a hold off.. I am yet to get my metal switches.
Have 1 DPDT latching switch for bank select
Press the patch switch to enable the required patch and when pressed again, it should be in bypass mode. (like any other analogue pedal)
When choosing the patch, you check the bank switch and choose a patch based on that...
Have LED indicators to indicate whether you are on BANK A or BANK B and corresponding PATCH LED (ON- When engaged and OFF - When disengaged)
Components used:
1. Arduino UNO (had to pick up a new one - http://www.explorelabs.com/)
2. USB host shield (had to pick up new one - http://hacktronics.co.in/, the one that I bought from Bhashatech, did not quite work here)
3. All other hardware's like switches, LEDs, wires, connectors, etc
VIDEO -
Comments
I have a zoom too.
Can you send me the schematic and code for arduino at : nobel1973@gmail.com
Thank you so much !!!
Would you send me the schematic and source code for the midi controller? I have a Zoom MS-70.
Cheers
Thanks
Could you send me your sketch of doing the midi controller to fikofiq@gmail.com? Thanks!
sincerely,
fikofiq
bearcrayola@gmail.com
Could you send me your schematic and code at : gstephane14@voila.fr
thanks and very good job
I have a MS50-G and would like to try something like this on it... would you please send me the schematic and code for Arduino? My email is liordinoneto@gmail.com
Thanks in advance!
You read my mind regarding more control of the CDR and this is awesome! I'd love for you to share your schematic and source code if possible. Don't know if I can pull it off, but I'd sure like to give it a try.
Thanks!
Bob
denabob@aol.com
Jamesbandyfuller@gmail.com
Jamietyson@gmail.com
What other functions on the CDR have you tried to control via MIDI besides changing patches?
Can tap tempo be controlled via MIDI?
What other functions on the CDR have you tried to control via MIDI besides changing patches?
Can tap tempo be controlled via MIDI?
Thanks!
Lawrence replies but we never see schematics.
I beg you. Otherwise tell me if you can build one and sell it to me, I'll paid you in advance, of course.
thanks in advance.
Omar
I've been hoping to find people looking around for ways to get deeper into the Zoom MS pedals. They're such great pedals.
And hopefully you get some time again to look more into tempo. I'm hoping to control tempo across several pedals at once. And perhaps even regardless of the menu/screen mode the pedals are in. Fingers crossed to you!
Thank you!
mail: 6jao22@gmail.com
Thank you
Please send me the schematic!
matias.vellanich@gmail.com
THX!!!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_9KxFfTA1wo
I used a PIC Micro controller for my project, instead of an arduino board.
Can i ask what software you used to test out MIDI messages that work? Thanks!
Thanks alot!
I have the Zoom MS70-CDR and like you I am frustrated by the lack of patch access flexibility. I think what have done is brilliant. Can you please send schematic and code to justamo485@gmail.com That would be great.
can you please send me the code and the schem for you midi controller? I also have a zoom ms70 and it's a great pedal.
my email is gilaguitaz(at)hotmail(dot)com
thank you!
:)
music@radatats.com
Pls. send data to me
at idsn.fabreget@gmail.com
Thank you very much
Still, I am way too unexperienced for figuring out the soldering points for the switches inside the pedal. Would there be any chance you could take a few pictures of the inside of your pedal?
Thanks once again!
Email: astr0z0mb1e@yahoo.com
Thanks,
Rob
Very good job on this, congratulations!
Could you send me your schematic and code at : bssern@gmail.com
thanks and very good job
Very impressed with your device to make an already great pedal even better.
Could you please send a copy of the code and schematic to bassleigh7@gmail.com
Thanks
Leigh
My email is this: eduardoa.garciao@gmail.com
Thanks in advance.
Can you tell me which MIDI message controls tempo function? Sorry, I'm not familiar with MIDI and arduino coding.
dankerleslie@gmail.com
Could you send me your schematic and code at tassos.vogiatzis@gmail.com
Great great job by the way
Schematic and software ? Thanks a lot. Cheers
c.izzo@tin.it
can you send me the sketch?
thank you. akucukmeric1@gmail.com
Email at : noelbaldonado@yahoo.com
alexander.scheuner@gmail.com
can u send me the shematics?
Thnks!
Nice job, can you send schematic and code too ar my email. ehguiang@gmail.com
thank you!
Should I have schematic and code for arduino?!it would be great!tks again
ricry@hotmail.it
I just found one little problem..
Need to press one of the switch few times when powered on to make the contoller works with multieefect. Do you found any solution to this?
regards.
marc.t71@gmx.fr
still looking for schematics and code, and instruction if any...
marc.t71@gmx.fr
Some info here:
http://arduinozoomms50g.blogspot.hu/
Nice job, can you send me schematic and code?
gagetta.davide@gmail.com
thank you!
fascinating stuff! very interested. Could please send me the code/schematics for my MS-70? songwork@sympatico.ca
I have the schematic but I need the values for the ressistors, so I can go ahead an build this.
Please help!
I just want to know which MIDI messages you send to the CDR. Are they MIDI CC?
Please reply to nameless.ph at gmail.com. Thanks.
I just bought one zoom g1on, this is regognized as usb-midi dev, too, so there's hope for that one ,too :) Would you please share your findings with me?
By the way: G1on is sounding real nice, especially for the pricetag
My mail is stefan_schadow@web.de
Greetings,
Stefan
me too, me too!!!
Would you send me the schematic and source code for my MS-50G?
Thanks from Italy ;-)
sunhawk6@gmail.com
Well done. Cheers
PS would you consider making another one for sale?
Have sent the code to everyone who asked for it.
I am very sorry, I just don't have the time to make it for someone.
Rest of the answers are in the code itself.
PLEASE USE GOOGLE to get some basic stuff like values for resistors etc :)
Can I ask you, if possible, to show me the connection diagram of the midi / usb Switcher device. I would be very grateful. It would really be helpful with my ZOOM 70cdr on stage. Best regards and wish you all the best in the hope that it will meet my request.
Slaven, email: ziza@rocker.hr
Teaser - Tap tempo for the MS 70 CDR
http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/Uno
Cheers
cyber7 aubreykloppers@gmail.com
Many thanks for your generosity in sharing your code!
John
Jeldredge601@gmail.com
Hey, Lawrence, could I get the info necessary to build one like yours?
My e-mail is filipesantos.ind@gmail.com
Thanks in advance!
Cheers from Brazil!
Please, send me schematic
transmitir@bol.com.br
tks
Would you send me the schematic and source code to me? For my ms-70
here's my email:
hlp005a32@yahoo.com.hk
Thank you so much!
Can you send me the schematic and code for arduino to larsniehoff68@gmail.com
I have an MS-60B and want to try to adapt.
Thank you - thumbs up!
I recently got my self a Zoom CDR and it rocks! Then i saw your video about your controller and then i bought an Arduino to replicate your project.
Can you please send the schematic and the programming code for this project? loophole_dirt@yahoo.com
Thank you and please continue your work with zoom cdr!
I would like to receive the code and schematic as well.
My email: allmybasearebelongtoyou@null.net
Do you think it would work with a Makey Makey? Which is an Arduino-based project.
Thanks!
I have a MS 70 CDR and would like to try something like this on it... would you please send me the schematic, code and tips?
My email is leoesperandio@gmail.com
Thanks!
This is amazing
Please could you send me schematics and code to t0m.d34d@gmail.com
I would love to make my own version.
Thanks!
Thank you very much!
Would love the schem and code too if it's still going :)
My email is charlesrwsale at gmail dot com
Thanks! :)))
Charles
I appreciate your sending me the schematics and code as well: arnaldo dot ortega at gmail dot com.
Thanks and Best Regards,
Arnaldo
I'm italian so forgive my poor english.
Your midi controller for zoom MS70 CDR is great for me....a revolution.
With your midi controller I can resolve much problems....
Can I Have code and schematic?....
Thank you thank you thank you:)
Bye
Mauro
mauro.correale784@gmail.com
Thank you again
Such a great job! I am interested on building this controller but I do not know where wouId I start from. Could you please share schematic and code to danz.brito@gmail.com
Regards,
Danz
A big congrat for your ms70 switching system project!
May I Have code and schematic for it Pls?
My address is pamaz67(at)gmail.com
Many thanks mate!
Paolo
This is amazing
Please could you tell me where the schematics and code are uploaded to
Thanks
Hey, Lawrence, could I get the info necessary to build one like yours?
By the way, this trick works on MS 50g too?
My e-mail is marceloacdiniz1@gmail.com
Thanks in advance!
Cheers from Brazil!
Very , very nice project :)
Please, Can you send schematic and code for me?
Thanx =]
may I have a copy of the build notes, like the schematic and codes? thanks!
g3seven@gmail.com
Great job! Please, Can you send schematic and code for me?
My email is thecellar2011@gmail.com
Great job, Congratulations and thanks for share it with all people.
Can you send me the code and schematic Please?
My address is hachanocturna@hotmail.es
Many many thanks!
Kindly send your latest schematics for the MIDI foot controller to kushingak@gmail.com
Great job, Congratulations and thanks for share it with all people.
Can you send me the code and schematic Please?
My address is tales777@gmail.com
Many many thanks!
Great job! Please, Can you send schematic and code for me?
My email is thecellar2011@gmail.com
Also watch some of your videos.
Can you share instructions, schematics and codes on how to make this to gang_dimi@yahoo.com?
Thanks in advance!
I still have not recieved the schematics and codes. My email address is kushingak@gmail.com
Thanks!
Can you email me the code + schematic? tabenziger@gmail.com
Also, do you mind telling me which specific part of the code can activate the tuner?
Thanks!
I am looking for a Zoom MS-50G mod build, and I will pay you for your time and help if you can do it. We can use the escrow at freelancer.com.
I am looking to use an external footswitch to turn the Zoom off, and to turn on multiple effects pedals, and then turn these effect pedals back off and the Zoom back on.
To turn the Zoom off, you need to navigate to one of the 'empty' patches, rather than cutting the power to the Zoom.
So on the first button press - the Zoom would turn to an 'empty' patch, and a Tube Screamer and (or) other FX pedals turn on - and on the second button press, the other FX pedals would turn off, and the Zoom turn back on to a patch.
Let me know what you think,
Thanks, and best regards,
musomuso (at) hotmail dot co dot uk
Chris
Can you send me the codes and schematics for this zoom CDR mod to britsy13@yahoo.com ? thank you and God bless
Best Regards
Britton
Could you please send the schematic and code to
andyvk5la@gmail.com
That would be very much appreciated.
Thanks
Andy
Pastor Bob
bob@bobsuter.com
mathiaspontesbussinger@hotmail.com
Do you know how control de tap tempo?
I have sent the codes and schematic to all who have left their mail id's... please do send me some pics if you have finished a successful build.
Such a nice work!! I saw your work last year when I first got my 70CDR. Now I am finally trying to build a midi controller too!
Could you sen me the codes and schematics?
my e-mail: iblis81@gmail.com
Thank you so much for your help!
-Kyoung
I'm from Hungary, and inerested in your project. I purchased a 70CDR yesterday. I'd like to make a foot controller for it. Previous I've made an arduino based conroller for my Damage Control Glass Nexus. So, if you share the shematic and the source codes, I'd try this. My mail address is: csorgits@gmail.com. Thanks in advance.
Andras
thank you for your response on YouTube. Please send the instructions for the midi foot controller for the Zoom MS70 CDR. Thank you very much!!
martin12w@yahoo.com
Could you send me schematics?
ha7e@tlen.pl
cheers!
great works!
Could you send me schematics please?
Here my adress: eschelzer@googlemail.com
Best Regards!
It's really a great work! I'm a newbie on arduino thing but i'd like to try it! Please send me the schematic and codes to ogiklO@gmail.com if you don't mind.
Cheers!
You should commercialize these midi pedalboards based on the replies to this post you would be rich by now, congratulations! you're awesome!
Could you send me your schematic and code please at: ovilor@gmail.com
Are you able to send me a list of what midi CC's do what? I am looking at seeing if my 70CDR can be controlled by my Line 6 FBV shortboard.
ncmercury@gmail.com
Thank you for your work,
Nick
Amazing work youre doing! Could you send me schematics for the midi pedal? Would be appreciated!
Cheers!
jackstroem@gmail.com
tiagoco@msn.com
Thanks
Brazil
I have sent the codes and schematic to all who have left their mail id's... please do send me some pics if you have finished a successful build.
Also if you can register to my FORUM we can help each other...http://arduino-midi-control.boards.net/
cheers
Oskar
fsilano@gmail.com
Can you send me the codes and schematics for zoom ms 70 CDR mod to wgz808@gmail.com ? thanks and God bless
Jay
nicolaluciano.nl@gmail.com
yvesabox-sub@yahoo.co.uk
Sustainable1@gmail.com
dsedej@yahoo.com
Thanks.
Bongiovanni.m@gmail.com
Can you please send me the details?
Thank you very much!
casinaro_87@hotmail.com
Could you please send me the info so I can build one ?
jobo@vianet.ca
P.S. I'm using someone's account (with permission) to leave this company because I don't have or want a Google account.
It's Hubert from France! Congratulations for this tremendous idea: That's sooo great!!!!
So... Like so others, I rencently bought a MS70CDR pedal. Great stereo unit! But... fewer controls. Could you please send me informations so that I could build my own? It will be my first arduino project... Hopes & fears ;-)
Could you please send me the schematics ? I think this would be great for live playing.
My email is ferryrukmana@gmail.com
Thanks a lot lawrence!
Please send me the schematics and instructions, I really like this zoom unit but it is not possible to use it live because I can't change patches. Please help me.
carlodevivo@hotmail.com
Can be used this with another zoom´s MS ?
can you send me the schematics and instructions? please
Thanks for discover it
tareaspancho@gmail.com
This a great way to control Zoom . I used this amazing setup on my Zoom MS-60B with great success.
Great work
hello , I would like if possible to send me the project , thank you
thiagomeneses84@hotmail.com
Could I have the schematic and source code sent to me?
m.bettonagli@hotmail.it
Thank you!!
I have a MS-70CDR and would like to build a midi controller too. Please, Could you send me the schematic and code for Arduino? My email is adelsonjunior@gmail.com
Thanks very much!
Nice project keen of doing the same thinng gor my ms 60b
Can help me send the schematic and arduino code
pukindat@gmail.com
Cheers bro more power
T H A N K S!!!
I have a MS-70CDR and would like to build a midi controller too. Please, Could you send me the schematic and code for Arduino? My email is adifrost11@gmail.com
Please please send schematics and code, my mail is: tomislavsola@gmail.com
Thank you so so so much!!!!!!
Lipekarica@gmail.com
Lipekarica@gmail.com
Also if you can register to my FORUM we can help each other...http://arduino-midi-control.boards.net/
can you please send me the code and the schem for you midi controller? My email is gmarucci@gmail.com
great job, could you please send me code and schematics? adam.blazejewicz@gmail.com Thanks a lot!
Dunno if you're still around, but if it is possible to you, could you please send my the project details for a homebrew building? I own a arduino micro, would it work anyway?
mike.tritto@gmail.com
Thx a lot!