Extreme Breath Expression
The Hornberg Research hb1 MIDI Breath Station lets you modulate any MIDI parameter of music software or electronic instruments with a USB or MIDI port. The hb1 gives you greater control over your MIDI keyboard by allowing you to deploy modulation such as attack, decay, sustain, release, and more without interrupting your performance; your hands and feet remain free to play or work other controls. But you don't have to use the hb1 with a controller — or even with a computer. It's designed for professional composers and performers who require extreme expression control, and handcrafted in Germany to the highest tolerances, using high-grade materials. The hb1's included wooden mouthpiece, stainless steel sensor, and integrated MIDI merger/interface set the stage for precise, highly expressive performances, onstage and in the studio. For the ultimate in performance expression, Sweetwater recommends the Hornberg Research hb1 MIDI Breath Station.
Related Videos: hb1 MIDI Breath Station - Electronic MIDI Breath Controller
The hb1 system
The hb1 comprises a controller unit that is connected to a pressure sensor unit via a sensor cable; the pressure sensor connects to the mouthpiece by means of a silicon hose. Two mouthpieces are included in different sizes to ensure optimal comfort. The mouthpiece, made of high-grade wood from the wild service tree, is mounted on a stainless steel tube with a continuously adjustable sliding air-intake valve. The included hb1 Neck Set enables the mouthpiece to be set in a fixed position in front of the mouth — quite handy for live performances. The pressure sensor unit is worn with a leather cord around the neck. The hb1 Neck Set is a flexible yet sturdy metal tube that can be easily shaped and adapted for your comfort and musical requirements.
Flexible setup options
The hb1 gives you flexible setup options, letting you use it in conjunction with, or without, a MIDI controller such as a keyboard. Integrating standard MIDI and USB-ports lets the hb1 function with or without a computer (a 5-volt USB power supply is included for standalone operation). Any MIDI-equipped instrument or controller can be connected to the hb1's MIDI input, passing on the merged MIDI data of your controller and the hb1 to the hb1's MIDI and USB outputs. The MIDI Out of the hb1 can also be connected directly to the MIDI input of a synthesizer or the USB port of a computer.
Modes and parameters
The hb1's innovative design gives it capabilities far beyond those of other breath controllers. Multi Mode lets you deploy up to four hb1 presets concurrently, for independent control of up to four MIDI CC streams. Other parameters include real-time data reduction, signal Inversion and Limitation, Drive, and Offset. Each parameter can be saved to 25 user presets. Breath data is constantly displayed on the breath-value display. The hb1 empowers you with unique control, allowing you to dynamically highlight and modulate various aspects of your music. For instance, adjustable Release allows you to inhale and abruptly end a note or phrase naturally. Dynamic Attack allows exacting — and again, natural-sounding — control, even in delicate pianissimo passages. These are but two examples, and there's much more under the hood of this innovative product. Suffice to say that if your music requires an extreme level of expressive control, the Hornberg Research hb1 MIDI Breath Station is the right tool for the job.
Hornberg Research hb1 MIDI Breath Station Features:
- Innovative breath controller designed for professional composers and performers
- Operates as breath-to-MIDI, breath-to-USB/MIDI, and standalone controller
- 12 parameters, 25 user presets
- MIDI Merge feature
- Additional 1x1 USB/MIDI interface
- Groundbreaking Attack and Release parameters
- Multi Mode gives you simultaneous control of 4 independent MIDI CCs
- Smart real-time data reduction
- 1ms internal resolution
- Invert function
- Constant Breath Value display
- 1 Controller unit
- 1 Pressure sensor unit
- 1 hb1 Neck Set
- 1 silicone hose
- 1 x 2m sensor cable
- 2 interchangeable mouthpieces, made of high-grade wood from the wild service tree
- 1 stainless steel tube with infinitely adjustable air intake valve
- 1 x 1.8m USB cable
- 5-volt USB power supply unit
- Cleaning swab for mouthpiece
- Wool felt carry case
- Handcrafted in Germany
