Rock Band 3 to offer MIDI input – custom controllers anyone?

We don’t usually cover much in the way of gaming news here, but my brother Kyle sent this item my way, noting the potential DIY aspect –

Thanks to Rock Band 3’s new Pro mode for guitar, drums and, yes, keyboard, every single note on the game’s song list will be tracked.

[…]

The good news for actual musicians? If you already have a MIDI keyboard or MIDI drum set, you can opt for the Rock Band 3 MIDI Pro Adapter Box. The device will convert MIDI messages into console controller data and includes on-board console navigation buttons that will let players navigate the game’s menus.

Besides being able to use a standard MIDI keyboard, those inclined could build their own Arduino/AVR/PIC/etc-based MIDI controller for use with the upcoming title. Rather sweet when you consider that doing something like this for previous music games entailed purchasing a standard controller, gutting the parts and then reintegrating them into a custom project.

In any case, cool to see a company like Harmonix allowing the use of preexisting hardware – though the adapter will cost you $40USD. [via Kotaku]

In the Maker Shed:

Drum Kit Kit for Arduino & MIDIVOX for Arduino