[Resolved] MIDI Clock and Synth Mode issues via Midibox / Jumper settings query

Pedals
1

Hi everyone,
​I’m looking for some help regarding MIDI connectivity with Ribbons. I’m currently trying to sync it to MIDI clock and use the internal synth mode, but I’m running into some issues.
​My current setup:
​Source: MIDI Clock sent via a Chase Bliss Midibox.
​Connection A: Midibox (MIDI Thru) → 5-pin DIN to TRS cable → Ribbons.
​Result: The internal synth sounds, but the clock does not sync.
​Connection B: Midibox (TRS output) → TRS cable → Ribbons.
​Result: No synth sound and no clock sync.
​My questions:
​Is it correct to assume that I need to change the internal jumpers to “TYPE CBA” to make it work with the Chase Bliss Midibox?
​I am hesitant to change the jumpers because I also frequently connect my Arturia Keystep 37 directly to Ribbons using a 5-pin DIN to TRS cable. If I switch the internal jumpers to TYPE CBA, will I still be able to use the Keystep 37 for clock sync and synth mode without any issues?
​I would appreciate any advice on the best jumper configuration for this dual-use scenario. Thanks in advance!

2

The best option is the first one you suggested.

Source: MIDI Clock sent via a Chase Bliss Midibox
Connection A: Midibox (MIDI Thru) → 5-pin DIN to TRS cable → Ribbons

If the Ribbons synth is working, then Ribbons is receiving MIDI messages successfully.

If clock isn’t working, one possibility is that Ribbons received MIDI CC 51, which disables (mutes) MIDI clock.

Fix options:

  • Re-enable clock: send MIDI CC 51 with a value of 1 or higher to Ribbons. You can configure one of the Keystep 37 encoders to do this using the Arturia MIDI control software.
  • Or factory reset: this will also restore the default behavior (only do this if you’re not attached to any presets).

One more important note: if you’re using a Keystep with Ribbons, you must set the transport controls to MMC mode in the Arturia MIDI control software, otherwise the Keystep’s transport messages can accidentally mute the synth.

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3

Yes, this is correct. It will not work with the CBA MIDI box if the jumpers are set to the Type A or Type B position.

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4

Setting MIDI CC 51 and changing the transport control to MMC mode did the trick! Now both the clock and synth mode are working perfectly. I’m glad I could resolve this without having to touch the internal jumpers. Thanks for the help.

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