Initializing PBF4 with RME Babyface Pro & TotalMix FX Using MIDI <-> OSC Bridge

Grid
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Hi, I’m new here :slightly_smiling_face: and I love my first Grid device!

I’m working on integrating my PBF4 with my RME Babyface Pro audio interface through TotalMix FX. I’ve noticed that TotalMix’s OSC capabilities are far more extensive than its MIDI functionality, so I decided to create a MIDI ↔ OSC bidirectional bridge using Python.

Here’s my setup:

  • Both the RME and the PBF4 are connected via a powered USB hub, meaning they are powered and ready before my MacBook is connected to them.
  • The Python bridge handles the conversion between MIDI and OSC.

What I’m Trying to Achieve:

  1. Fader and Potmeter Initialization:

    • When my MacBook connects, and the Grid MIDI port becomes available, I want to:
      • Retrieve the current values of the faders and dials from the PBF4.
      • Send these values via OSC to TotalMix FX to initialize its state.

  2. Button and LED Initialization:

    • Retrieve the mute statuses from TotalMix via OSC.
    • Send these values back to the PBF4 to initialize the button states and LEDs.

My Question:

  • Is there a simple way to perform this kind of initialization with the PBF4?
  • Specifically:
    • Triggering Setup Events: Is there a built-in mechanism on the PBF4 to trigger a setup event that outputs all current fader and dial values?
    • Status Dump: Is there a way to configure the PBF4 to send all its current states (fader/dial/button) automatically on connection?
  • Alternatively, should I send a custom MIDI message (e.g., a Note On or Control Change) to the PBF4 to trigger the MIDI RX event and send back the current values of the faders and dials?

Any Help is Appreciated

If anyone has experience with:

  • Automating this type of initialization on the PBF4,
  • Configuring TotalMix FX with PBF4 for bidirectional MIDI ↔ OSC,
  • Or simplifying the setup for retrieving and syncing states,

I’d greatly appreciate your insights.

Warm Regards,
Robin