MIDITuningStandards

MIDI Tuning Standard is a MIDI System Exclusive message that allows for the precise tuning of MIDI-enabled musical instruments. The standard, officially defined as the MIDI Tuning Standard (MTS), enables devices to communicate specific tuning information beyond the default equal temperament. This is particularly useful for instruments requiring microtonal tuning, historical temperaments, or even custom tuning scales.

The MTS message transmits a tuning data block that can represent the tuning of multiple notes. Each note's tuning is defined by an offset from its standard equal temperament pitch. This offset is typically expressed in cents, where 100 cents represent a semitone. By sending these offsets, an instrument can adjust its pitch for each note accordingly, creating a finely tuned performance.

The primary benefit of using MTS is the ability to achieve accurate and consistent tuning across multiple instruments. It eliminates the need for manual retuning or relying on less precise methods. For composers and performers working with microtonal music or historical tunings, MTS provides a powerful tool for realizing their sonic intentions with fidelity. While not universally implemented in all MIDI devices, it remains a valuable standard for professional audio applications and specialized musical instruments.