Thank you so much for that Video. I already looked for Midi and Sound interfaces to realize this, as i thought i Need to Go modx->ipad->PA. But this is so much better! Very good video!
Nice I just got the 7 and I’m just staring to dig into all its features. Please keep the videos going. There is very little info out there by actual owners.
Getting my MODX6+ tomorrow, your video helped a lot mate! Can't wait to try this on it. Also, if you could please tell me which amp do you use ? And I love the way you play the keys too! Kudos from a musician based in Bangalore to another! 🙌🏽 Sub all the way, looking forward to more of your videos.
I'm doing something similar, except I have the Focusrite iTrack Dock, so my old iPad, loaded with all my music apps, is hooked to the MODX via the iTrack Dock. The advantage is that I can send the iTrack Dock audio outputs to a different pair of stereo channels on my main interface, which is a Mackie Onyx 1640i. Otherwise, I can do all the things you show in this excellent video. The iTrack Dock also has one other advantage - it charges the iPad while you use it. The iTrack Dock also sits nicely on the end of my MODX 7, too :)
Thanks for that question. I got excited by that too, but unfortunately I don't think that's possible. The USB-Return goes straight through to the outputs.
I can't wait to get my MODX7. So is this basically like loading another library with the iPad hooked directly instead of loading more sounds with a usb card?
Hi Barath. Thank you for this excellent video! I have two questions for you sir: 1. To confirm ... the audio from whatever app I'm using on my iPAD is added to the audio out from the MODX? So I do not need to run a separate audio cable from the iPad? 2. Can I split my keyboard and assign my MODX patch from say middle C down .. and my iPad sound from middle C up? If yes ... how do I do that? Thank you much for your responses! ; )
Hi Stephen! Thanks for stopping by and listening. To answer your questions: 1. Yes, that's correct. The iPad audio will also come through the outputs of the MODX, and you don't need to hook up an extra audio cable from the iPad. 2. Yes, you should be able to do that. Each of the tracks in performance mode send MIDI on separate channels, ie. Track2 on channel 2 etc. So if you setup your iPad Synth to receive midi via channel 2, and then switch off the little keyboard icon on the track of your performance layer, you should be able to get the iPad on channel2 and MODX on the other channels. I hope that helps. ✌🏽
@@BharathKumarIyer Thanks so much, Bharath! Very helpful indeed. I'm very much looking forward to enjoying more of your content. With appreciation, Stephen.
on the MODX, if you disable local control, they keys will only trigger the ipad. Also, if you use a sequencer on the ipad, the Modx responds to midi channels 1-16, one for each part of the MODX program in use. I have not found a way to reassign what part responds to what midi channel, I think this is not enabled on the current firmware of the MODX.
Thank you for this video. Given the modx manual talks about needing to install a usb audio driver on one’s Mac it seemed the modx usb audio was not class compliant. But your video has audio from the iPad going down the usb cable into the modx. So I assume the modx is core audio and core midi compliant. Do you need to use the stein berg usb audio driver on your Mac?
nice video! question: what if I want to play two instruments (on the iPad) at the same time (perhaps on different Midi Channels)? may I do it using an app like AudioBus?
I'm getting no sound from my MODX to my IPad Pro 2020!? There's stuff that you click in the settings with the IPad and in the Modx, please explain.....
You don't really have to setup any settings. It should just work once you plug them together. Are you using a specific app on your iPad? On some apps, you'll need to go into the audio settings within the app and set it up to send audio to the MODX. Maybe that?
The latency with the iPad is pretty great for the most part. Some apps even have some basic buffer size settings to help tweak the latency. But since the USB cable is connected to the iPad, you can't connect to the computer digitally. Hope that clears that up. ✌🏽
@@BharathKumarIyer hope this isn’t too late. But using an app called AUM and Cubasis you can load up the app with your tones and recording app (Cubasis) all in AUM. So u can play vst instruments from the iPad and record them at the same time.
Quick questions, Can the modx play the iOS apps only without one of its tones playing with It? Can the modx just be the hardware to play the iOS sound/tone apps like iprophit? I don’t want to layer the two together. Thank you
Yes! It's possible to do that in a couple of ways. One is to create an empty performance with all MODX patch volumes set to zero and only let the iPad audio through. Second option is to disable local control inside of Utility, which will allow the keybed to control only the iPad apps. Hope that helps. ✌🏽
QUESTION: So....if I connect from the USB to an IPad can I still use the regular MIDI out jack at the same time, or does the USB supercede the MIDI ports? I just bought a MODX...have been using an MOXF for about 4 years and I connect the MIDI out from keyboard to a TC Helicon VoiceLive3 processor in performances (to send chord info for harmonies etc.). Wondering if I will be able to do same with the MODX and also have the ability to connect it to an iPad at same time. Guess I can just try it out...
@@BharathKumarIyer What I have found out, not entirely satisfying as it seems overly complex for the very simple thing I am trying to do...The 5 pin MIDI ports change function when MIDI mode on the MODX is set to "USB," but yes, they do have some functionality. See this: yamahasynth.com/learn/modx/mastering-modx-midi-settings-explained QUOTE: "Important Note: If you select MIDI I/O = USB, MODX will send and receive via the USB connection; while the 5-pin MIDI IN/OUT jacks will allow you to connect an external device discreetly to the computer (as port 3). Therefore, it is NOT that the 5-pin MIDI ports don't work when you select MIDI I/O = USB, they work to address one external device (both IN/OUT, to and from the computer). You can trigger that device by looping the signal through the computer: Port 1 In to Port 3 Out." My understanding of this: The 5pin ports DO work *partially,* but they then function more as "THRU," allowing the computer (or iPad) to communicate with some other device downstream of the MODX. Any commands that one wishes to send out from the MODX itself to another device would have to thus be routed first back through the computer (or iPad) via the USB connection, as I understand it, then they could be sent out to the other device via 5pin. Pretty sure that is right. As for me, I am not trying to connect different synths together but rather need to send MIDI info (notes and program changes) from MODX to VoiceLive3 and prefer that connection to be DIRECT vs. trying to figure out how to relay it through iPad first. If I keep it simple and just connect those two devices via one simple 5-pin (MODX OUT to VoiceLive3 IN) with MIDI set to "MIDI" on the MODX instead of USB, it works (without iPad involvement...just the two devices). But I was wanting to add an iPad to the mix on the front end, to send program changes to the MODX first and on occasion to send directly to the VoiceLive3, using onSong (I am just learning that app). I get partial success with that by either going ALL 5-pin (with a MIDI to USB adapter and camera kit for iPad to connect to the 5pin IN on the MODX) OR (clumsily and inconsistently) with all USB using a simple USB hub (for inputs from MODX and VoiceLive 3, going into camera kit and into iPad)...requires an additional app running in background to route everything virtually and get things talking to each other in the right directions (MIDIflow is what I've tried). Can't get the latter to work reliably due to complexity of the settings (I'm just guessing on a lot of it!) but have had some success, but then next time I try it won't work or gives weird results....ugh. For now I'm going to leave the ipad out of things and go with 5pin for MODX to VoiceLive 3 connection which I know works (used that for a long time with my old MOXF8 and VoiceLive 3). Oh - additionally -- with an all-5pin setup, it seems there is no real "MIDI THRU" functionality on the MODX, so that's another frustration...If I turn "THRU" on in the MIDI options to allow commands from iPad to OnSong, the OUT port becomes ONLY a THRU, it seems, and no commands from MODX itself make it to the VoiceLive via the 5pin. So the most simple/reliable for me will be just a one-way chain....iPad to MODx, then MODx to VoiceLive 3, and I'll skip the step of trying to send anything from iPad directly to VoiceLive 3 for now until I have more time to learn how to do it all via USB and get the routing and commands right. Whew. Clear as mud????
what I'm looking to do is connect it to my MacBook computer and also be able to download sounds to the synth packs are for example that I would have bought by download with USB key to see download it on the modx question how to do thank you what software on the Yamaha site
This should be possible on Montage as well. But, it doesn't have a dedicated USB Monitor knob, as far as I understand, so the return level might not be as easily controlled as on the MODX. Other than that, the rest (audio & MIDI over USB to/fro iOS) should work.
@@BharathKumarIyer how do u get it to transmit sound back thru keyboard instead of out of ipad speakers? Did it do by default or did u adjust something and how
hi many thanks for your helpful video, I have a Modx and also have an old iPad third generation will that work the same way? hopefully and also can i ask are the iPad apps that you use expensive thanks in advance
Well, indeed an interesting insight. Thanks for this Bharath. However, I would like to know if we can even go ahead and make a patch while combining MODX and the softwares on iPad and record the same or is this combination only for a live performance ? Thanks and keep up the good work. :)
Hi Bharath. Well, do you have any idea if the patches made on ios apps like Animoog could be used for music production on non-apple DAWs like Cubase on PC ? Are they compatible ? If yes, how can the data be transferred ? Thanks.
I’m guessing the iPad audio is going into the Yamaha via the camera connection kit, right? Any set up you have to do in the iPad to do that? I have a MODX-6 and the analog audio in is very straight forward to set up but still can’t manage to use it as an audio interface with my PC...
OK well I have a modx6, did the lightning hookup with both a mini ipad 2 and and iphone, results the same, works a couple of minutes, I hear a little click, the sound from the ios device stops playing, message on the ios device says "accessory not supported" can rehook it in and start playing until it stops within a couple of minutes.. with that kind of reliability I wouldnt even remotely consider using this in a live situation.
Yamaha Music is present in all major cities: Mumbai, Bangalore, Delhi. They are the official distributors. There are also many smaller retailers who might be able to get it to you. But just keep in mind the kind of after-sales support you would receive from whoever you buy it from.
Hello, i got a modx6 and i have upgraded to firmware 2.51, do you know if i can connect a p125 yamaha digital piano through usb midi to the modx? Cause p125 doesn't have 5pin standard midi jack. Thanks
Somebody knows if it possible to do the same thing on Roland FA or Juno DS series ? I plan to buy a workstation like the FA 06 or Juno DS 61 because it's less expensive than the MODX. But FA or Juno DS series doesn't have any good LCD screen. The Juno DS has a poor screen and the FA has a better one but not good as the MODX and no touch screen. Using a external app running on an iPad will be a great compromise.
@@BharathKumarIyer Thx you for your answer. I will buy the FA06 and try to replicate this setup. You did a very good job on this video, pretty interesting to talk about this aspect of workstation.
Hi sir, this is a very good video. I have a Korg pa900 and an iPad 2018. I want to know how I can connect my iPad with my keyboard. Is it the same as shown in this video, or are there any other options as well? Secondly I want to know the softwares that I can use on my iPad to sequence, sample and play the wav files in a loop. Can you please tell me what all apps I can use on my iPad for the above functions? Thanks in advance
The connection should be similar. Not sure if the PA900 can do Audio over USB, but it can definitely do MIDI over USB. This will allow you to play the iPad synths, but you may have to route audio separately. For iPad sampling and looping etc, take a look at BeatMaker3, Akai MPC, and Loopy HD. Hope that helps ✌️
Nice idea! Can I use my MODX7 to trigger samples on the iPad? In addition ... I am looking for the ultimate 'Pop' horns library to house on the iPad and trigger from the MODX7. Looking for something like Earth, Wind & Fire horns without spending a fortune. Do you have a favorite library that would work? Sorry so many questions ... noobie here. Many thanks!
The MODX can definitely be used to trigger samples on iPad. I personally use BeatMaker2 for sample trigger stuff. I've never personally explored horns on iPad, but I read on some forums about an app called Heavy Brass by Crudebyte. The demos looks quite interesting, maybe that? Especially if you want that Earth, Wind & Fire or Tower of Power style sound. But if you're looking at integrating multiple apps simultaneously, definitely check out Audiobus.
Hi bro. I’m waiting for my MODX to be delivered by next week and I’ve stumbled onto your video. Great stuff and great ideas indeed 👍🏼👍🏼 I love Moog sounds, I have the moog little phatty and recently upgraded to the sub37. I didn’t know that such apps existed on AppStore! I’ve had a look and got really surprised and excited at the same time cuz I found out about this in the right time just before getting my MODX! 😄 What would you recommend from the moog apps that would sound good with the MODX?
Hangar18 The model D App (MiniMoog) came out earlier this year. I brought it, and it’s pretty good and the reviews on it are excellent. I’m a little more comfortable navigating the Arturia both VST and iPad, but the Moog branded one is said to sound a little better. I wish Moog’s included more presets, but it’s good and also inexpensive. I’ve heard good things about the Modular 15 too. I highly doubt the MODX could replicate some of the sounds it can make, or would be as easy or fun for tweaking. MOXD & iOS apps or a laptop would make a nice combo.
Because the standard USB cable wouldn't fit. The camera connection kit is used for hosting USB devices via a USB B port. Just see the port shapes, and you'll see why. ✌🏽
Depends on the complexity of the load really. The iPad can do a lot, especially in terms of synths/arps and sequences, and tonally it's on par with PC synths. But if your set is majorly built around usong many samples and effects, then a Mac is probably a better option. The iPad is still a lightweight when it comes to processing power and depth-of-usage, but it's getting comparable to desktop grade power every year. There are things that my iPad Pro(2017) can do that my iPad 2 can't even imagine. I would recommend that you try an iPad out and see if that fits your needs. Hope that helps ✌️
it is also worth knowing that the best instruments on ipad cost a tiny fraction of the best vst on a computer - ipad stuff is really very impressive and you can use cubasis as a proper sequencer/daw if you need to.
The delay in signal is called latency. The simplest way to reduce latency is to reduce thr "buffer size". This is app specific. I would recommend looking around inside the audio preferences/settings inside your program and setting a buffer size of 64 or 128
The MODX has in-built transposition functionality. Just press the Shift+OctaveUp button to transpose one semitone up. Similarly for transpose down. From the app perspective, most Synth apps have the possibility to transpose/tune within the app itself. Alternatively if you're working within a Performance, you can transpose only a single track on the MODX, and receive the relevant track/channel on the app. I hope that clears it up. ✌🏾
It acts as a midi controller as well as an audio interface for any laptop based setup as well. So it should work perfectly well with Ableton or any other DAW.
@@BharathKumarIyer Thank you for the quick reply, so basically i will be able to use the knobs on the synth for my vsts sorry for my stupid questions 😂
@@cursedsound .. I just checked this out. It doesn't look like the knobs can be assigned to VSTs as of now, since they send Sysex and not MIDI CC. But the faders, buttons and super knob are all assignable. I hope a future firmware update can fix this.
This should be possible on Montage as well. But, it doesn't have a dedicated USB Monitor knob, as far as I understand, so the return level might not be as easily controlled as on the MODX. Other than that, the rest (audio & MIDI over USB to/fro iOS) should work.
Has anyone tried connecting a MODX to a different controller keyboard that has aftertouch? One feature I love that is greatly missing. I normally gig with 2 other keyboards that have it, and if I buy a MODX6, I might be able to do that. Only I generally have those keyboards already connected via MIDI to software synths. Also, if I were to connect a MODX6 to my netbook via USB and use it as a 2nd card as my 2nd laptop in case I had a crash, could I still use the MIDI port on the MODX6 to play sounds from my regular laptop? Currently, I use a Korg M1, an Axiom 61 midi controller and a Yamaha MX49 on the side. All three are connected to a laptop via MIDI to play soft synths. I recently decided also hooking up my netbook might be a good backup to connect to the side keyboard via USB if I had a crash, and the other keyboards are incapable of reproducing the sounds even close. And for many songs we cover, I tend to doubt I'll be able to reproduce the sounds too close on even a MODX. I could spend a ton of time and money buying 3rd party sound libraries for it, but I still tend to think many of the sounds I'm using will be noticeably worse on most hardware synths. Or that I wouldn't be able to easily figure out how to recreate the sounds myself if it could be done.
As a gigging musician, I've really been feeling the absence of aftertouch recently, especially with a multi-synth setup like what you describe. The Montage (or even Kronos) is obviously the closest option with aftertouch. Sadly, nothing in this price range has aftertouch. I really hope that trend changes. The MODX sound engine is able to respond to after touch, so if you'd like to use it as a sound source and laptop interface, that should be possible.
@@BharathKumarIyer I typically gig with a MODX6 + an M-Audio Axiom 61. The Axiom is also 61 keys, weighs just 15 lbs, has aftertouch, 9 sliders, 9 knobs, waterfall keys and much more. I typically use it with a laptop and soft synths (many of which support aftertouch) and I also have the ability to trigger the MODX and use aftertouch. The Axiom 61 is plentiful on the used market, and can often be found for around $100 (pre-COVID). That is a MODX6 you have an a full size iPad? I wasn't sure if the full size would fit on top of a MODX6 and I've been thinking of getting an iPad Mini. Are you able to fit the full size iPad in the MODX6 back pack gig pad? I think it would fit, but not sure.
@@BharathKumarIyer how do u get it to transmit sound back thru keyboard instead of out of ipad speakers? Did it do by default or did u adjust something and how
Hi. The MODX should be able to connect to Android devices also. But please check whether the android device supports "class complaint USB audio". I myself haven't tried connecting Android, but it should work.
@@BharathKumarIyer Is that a "full size" iPad sitting on top of your MODX6 or an iPad Mini? If full size, how well does it stay seated? I'd like to find a "Windows" tablet that will "securely" sit on top of my MODX and also easily fit in the MODX6 back pack gig bag. Windows has a lot more synths available and I'm already using many on a laptop. I like the idea of a small tablet fitting in the gig bag and not needing a stand. I've used anti-slip dish mat material to help with some gear, which might be suitable. Dollar stores sell it. Cut to size.
The MODX is a deep,complex and versatile keyboard with 2,000 presets and beautiful sounds,so I do not see the purpose of hooking up an iPad.iPad's are for shit-box keyboards like a Yamaha MX or a Korg Kross(where you need an iPad with software synths to avoid or conceal the shit sounds of a lousy keyboard,to do a proper live performance(without getting laughed off the stage.)
No doubt the MODX is a very deep and powerful machine. The iPad just adds extra versatility and possibilities to any synth. It's not about covering up for bad sounds.
Actually, connecting an iPad to a MODX is an excellent idea. I'm considering buying a MODX6 and have demoed them in music stores many times, and watched tons of videos showing the sounds and many expansion sounds that could be used with it from the Montage & MOTIF series. Still, software synths (either from iPad/iPhone or laptop) offer a lot of features not found on these keyboards. The MODX includes some excellent piano & strings. Where it lacks is physical modeling of classic analog synthesizers & Hammond organs. The Korg Kronos had the right idea on modeling, only they didn't model the instruments I really wanted. Sometimes you can get some good results with expansion sound libraries depending on what sounds your looking for, but generally modeling of the original instruments can create a wider variety of sounds and offer more controls over the sounds. The ones I care most about are lead synth sounds from famous instruments to cover famous songs & rock organs. Even on the Montage & MOTIF XF, though you can usually get by, soft synths can produce more faithful recreations. Some of the ones I use, Oberheim OB-X, Prophet V, Mini Moog, Korg M1, Korg Wavestation, Hammond B3. Moog Music offers their own Mini Moog App for iPad and laptops have many similar ones available from Arturia and other companies. Many of the lead synth examples & rock organs I've heard & tried from the Montage / MOTIF series pale next to the laptop full of soft synths I use.I also have many on my iPhone, but iPads offer many more. A regular laptop can also run soft synths of many classic digital synths like the Synclavier, Fairlight, etc. Nearly any classic instrument, and they've made many new ones too. No hardware keyboard can compete with that so far. I'm hoping in the future for the ability to run VST synths directly on a keyboard from a large company like Yamaha, Korg or Roland. For ultimate portability, I'm hoping my Windows netbook full of the same soft synths as my laptop will fit directly on top of a MODX6. I would tend to think I'd use the soft synth more with my band than the MODX6 sounds for the 80s & 70s rock songs we cover. The MODX6 would be used as a MIDI controller more often than producing it's own sounds, but I could use it as a soundcard for the netbook. One thing I like about the MODX6 is if the netbook crashed, I could probably quickly call up the the closest sounds as the netbook possible and like the netbook, easily create songs using splits with multiple sounds mapped to the keyboard. The MODX6 is also small enough that it might replace my MX49 placed to the right of my 2-tier keyboard setup. I mostly run soft synths on two 61 key synths. And it likely includes the MX sounds I use, since they were taken from the MOTIF XS. MX sounds by the way can be very good. I suspect a large portion of the MODX sounds are identical and both use the AWM2 engine for creating sounds. MODX includes a much larger sample library to build sounds, FM-X, the Super Knob for expression, etc. The MX series can't be beat for even more portability and lower cost that still does an excellent job of many sounds. And it still has the same AWM2 engine. MX49 weights only 8 lbs (the one I have) and takes very little stage space and is very affordable. Importing MOTIF libraries is more complicated, extra cost for software, and questionable if the results will match or not. Biggest disadvantage. Since my LCD broke, I can't explore that option right now (I don't think) but I originally planned on it. Now I may just save for the MODX6.
The ipad is not just for soft synths that expand on what the MODX already offers. Use the Ipad as a sequencer for the MODX, or use programs like Fugue Machine for generative music. Use the Ipad to sample and edit waveforms, then import them into the MODX engine. The MODX acts as the audio interface for an Ipad plugged into its USB port, it is an ideal accessory to a MODX.
If using GarageBand on iPad make sure you pic the mic one if you wanna record the synths sounds,usb volume also works. Simple plug n play👍
Thank you so much for that Video. I already looked for Midi and Sound interfaces to realize this, as i thought i Need to Go modx->ipad->PA. But this is so much better! Very good video!
Glad to hear that you found it useful! 🤟🏽
V good video, thanks. This is such a great feature since the MODX's weakest area is probably in replicating analog. It goes a long way to solving tbat
Nicely done. So you can also turn off the MODX patch and just play the ipad instrument via the modx, and record the output via regular 1/4 connectors
Thank you for this great tutorial!
Well, I'm getting an Ipad, yesterday : ) Thanks for this!
Thank you 🙏 for sharing. Great video!!
You're welcome. Glad you found it useful!✌🏾
Very helpful video. Thank You!
Nice I just got the 7 and I’m just staring to dig into all its features. Please keep the videos going. There is very little info out there by actual owners.
Getting my MODX6+ tomorrow, your video helped a lot mate! Can't wait to try this on it.
Also, if you could please tell me which amp do you use ?
And I love the way you play the keys too!
Kudos from a musician based in Bangalore to another! 🙌🏽 Sub all the way, looking forward to more of your videos.
Thanks! I don't use an amp, but instead run mine through my JBL LSR-Series studio monitors. ✌🏽
I'm doing something similar, except I have the Focusrite iTrack Dock, so my old iPad, loaded with all my music apps, is hooked to the MODX via the iTrack Dock. The advantage is that I can send the iTrack Dock audio outputs to a different pair of stereo channels on my main interface, which is a Mackie Onyx 1640i. Otherwise, I can do all the things you show in this excellent video. The iTrack Dock also has one other advantage - it charges the iPad while you use it. The iTrack Dock also sits nicely on the end of my MODX 7, too :)
Great video, can you add modx effects to the USB channel like you can to the A/D input channel?
Thanks for that question. I got excited by that too, but unfortunately I don't think that's possible. The USB-Return goes straight through to the outputs.
This is what I’m trying to do to connect my Roland integra to iPad !
Do you sell samples ?
All the best with the Integra. It should be fairly straightforward. Hope it works out! I don't sell sample packs though ✌🏾
Thanks for posting this!✌️
Fantastic, didn’t know this was possible!
THANK YOU! - Very helpful video! :-)
I can't wait to get my MODX7. So is this basically like loading another library with the iPad hooked directly instead of loading more sounds with a usb card?
Hi Barath. Thank you for this excellent video! I have two questions for you sir:
1. To confirm ... the audio from whatever app I'm using on my iPAD is added to the audio out from the MODX? So I do not need to run a separate audio cable from the iPad?
2. Can I split my keyboard and assign my MODX patch from say middle C down .. and my iPad sound from middle C up? If yes ... how do I do that?
Thank you much for your responses! ; )
Hi Stephen! Thanks for stopping by and listening. To answer your questions:
1. Yes, that's correct. The iPad audio will also come through the outputs of the MODX, and you don't need to hook up an extra audio cable from the iPad.
2. Yes, you should be able to do that. Each of the tracks in performance mode send MIDI on separate channels, ie. Track2 on channel 2 etc. So if you setup your iPad Synth to receive midi via channel 2, and then switch off the little keyboard icon on the track of your performance layer, you should be able to get the iPad on channel2 and MODX on the other channels.
I hope that helps. ✌🏽
@@BharathKumarIyer Thanks so much, Bharath! Very helpful indeed. I'm very much looking forward to enjoying more of your content. With appreciation, Stephen.
on the MODX, if you disable local control, they keys will only trigger the ipad. Also, if you use a sequencer on the ipad, the Modx responds to midi channels 1-16, one for each part of the MODX program in use. I have not found a way to reassign what part responds to what midi channel, I think this is not enabled on the current firmware of the MODX.
Excellent information. This motivates me to add my iPad to my setup to layer with. Thx so much for sharing 🙏🏾
Thank you for this video. Given the modx manual talks about needing to install a usb audio driver on one’s Mac it seemed the modx usb audio was not class compliant. But your video has audio from the iPad going down the usb cable into the modx. So I assume the modx is core audio and core midi compliant. Do you need to use the stein berg usb audio driver on your Mac?
The MODX is class compliant. Yes, there's some additional software that comes with it, but I don't think that it needs any additional drivers on Mac.
nice video! question: what if I want to play two instruments (on the iPad) at the same time (perhaps on different Midi Channels)? may I do it using an app like AudioBus?
Absolutely! AudioBus is the easiest way to run multiple synths on the iPad.
thanks this help me a lot
most excellent. and easy peasy. thx, daniel
Even Adam and Eve preferred Apple to Microsoft 😂
Thank you for the video.
Excellent video. I was really wonder about this setup.
Do you have some suggestions for live setup in terms of keyboard stand or any other tip?
Thank you for your upload !
Thanks a lot for that video !
I'm getting no sound from my MODX to my IPad Pro 2020!? There's stuff that you click in the settings with the IPad and in the Modx, please explain.....
You don't really have to setup any settings. It should just work once you plug them together. Are you using a specific app on your iPad? On some apps, you'll need to go into the audio settings within the app and set it up to send audio to the MODX. Maybe that?
Excellent video ! Could you tell me which amplifier you are using ?
Amazing workflow! How is the latency with the iPad? Can you record the end result, on a PC (digitally via USB in multitrack?)
The latency with the iPad is pretty great for the most part. Some apps even have some basic buffer size settings to help tweak the latency. But since the USB cable is connected to the iPad, you can't connect to the computer digitally. Hope that clears that up. ✌🏽
@@BharathKumarIyer hope this isn’t too late. But using an app called AUM and Cubasis you can load up the app with your tones and recording app (Cubasis) all in AUM. So u can play vst instruments from the iPad and record them at the same time.
Very nice! How are the synth bass sounds on those apps?’ Wonder if it will work on the iPhone too
The app synths are all great! Bass Tones are pretty amazing. Especially the Animoog. Very versatile and very good sounding.
Bharath Kumar might have to look at that. Thank you!
Quick questions, Can the modx play the iOS apps only without one of its tones playing with It? Can the modx just be the hardware to play the iOS sound/tone apps like iprophit?
I don’t want to layer the two together.
Thank you
Yes! It's possible to do that in a couple of ways. One is to create an empty performance with all MODX patch volumes set to zero and only let the iPad audio through. Second option is to disable local control inside of Utility, which will allow the keybed to control only the iPad apps. Hope that helps. ✌🏽
QUESTION: So....if I connect from the USB to an IPad can I still use the regular MIDI out jack at the same time, or does the USB supercede the MIDI ports? I just bought a MODX...have been using an MOXF for about 4 years and I connect the MIDI out from keyboard to a TC Helicon VoiceLive3 processor in performances (to send chord info for harmonies etc.). Wondering if I will be able to do same with the MODX and also have the ability to connect it to an iPad at same time. Guess I can just try it out...
Both USB-iPad and MIDI port should be able to work simultaneously. Please share when you do find out!
@@BharathKumarIyer What I have found out, not entirely satisfying as it seems overly complex for the very simple thing I am trying to do...The 5 pin MIDI ports change function when MIDI mode on the MODX is set to "USB," but yes, they do have some functionality. See this:
yamahasynth.com/learn/modx/mastering-modx-midi-settings-explained
QUOTE: "Important Note: If you select MIDI I/O = USB, MODX will send and receive via the USB connection; while the 5-pin MIDI IN/OUT jacks will allow you to connect an external device discreetly to the computer (as port 3). Therefore, it is NOT that the 5-pin MIDI ports don't work when you select MIDI I/O = USB, they work to address one external device (both IN/OUT, to and from the computer). You can trigger that device by looping the signal through the computer: Port 1 In to Port 3 Out."
My understanding of this: The 5pin ports DO work *partially,* but they then function more as "THRU," allowing the computer (or iPad) to communicate with some other device downstream of the MODX. Any commands that one wishes to send out from the MODX itself to another device would have to thus be routed first back through the computer (or iPad) via the USB connection, as I understand it, then they could be sent out to the other device via 5pin. Pretty sure that is right. As for me, I am not trying to connect different synths together but rather need to send MIDI info (notes and program changes) from MODX to VoiceLive3 and prefer that connection to be DIRECT vs. trying to figure out how to relay it through iPad first. If I keep it simple and just connect those two devices via one simple 5-pin (MODX OUT to VoiceLive3 IN) with MIDI set to "MIDI" on the MODX instead of USB, it works (without iPad involvement...just the two devices). But I was wanting to add an iPad to the mix on the front end, to send program changes to the MODX first and on occasion to send directly to the VoiceLive3, using onSong (I am just learning that app). I get partial success with that by either going ALL 5-pin (with a MIDI to USB adapter and camera kit for iPad to connect to the 5pin IN on the MODX) OR (clumsily and inconsistently) with all USB using a simple USB hub (for inputs from MODX and VoiceLive 3, going into camera kit and into iPad)...requires an additional app running in background to route everything virtually and get things talking to each other in the right directions (MIDIflow is what I've tried). Can't get the latter to work reliably due to complexity of the settings (I'm just guessing on a lot of it!) but have had some success, but then next time I try it won't work or gives weird results....ugh. For now I'm going to leave the ipad out of things and go with 5pin for MODX to VoiceLive 3 connection which I know works (used that for a long time with my old MOXF8 and VoiceLive 3). Oh - additionally -- with an all-5pin setup, it seems there is no real "MIDI THRU" functionality on the MODX, so that's another frustration...If I turn "THRU" on in the MIDI options to allow commands from iPad to OnSong, the OUT port becomes ONLY a THRU, it seems, and no commands from MODX itself make it to the VoiceLive via the 5pin. So the most simple/reliable for me will be just a one-way chain....iPad to MODx, then MODx to VoiceLive 3, and I'll skip the step of trying to send anything from iPad directly to VoiceLive 3 for now until I have more time to learn how to do it all via USB and get the routing and commands right. Whew. Clear as mud????
what I'm looking to do is connect it to my MacBook computer and also be able to download sounds to the synth packs are for example that I would have bought by download with USB key to see download it on the modx question how to do thank you what software on the Yamaha site
Just go to soundmondo.com for an easy way to connect your MODX to the computer and transfer patches and sounds
Nice demonstration
Can I do the same thing on the Montage 6/7/8?
This should be possible on Montage as well. But, it doesn't have a dedicated USB Monitor knob, as far as I understand, so the return level might not be as easily controlled as on the MODX. Other than that, the rest (audio & MIDI over USB to/fro iOS) should work.
@@BharathKumarIyer how do u get it to transmit sound back thru keyboard instead of out of ipad speakers? Did it do by default or did u adjust something and how
I need to try this with my Montage. Is the audio quality better this way than just coming out of the iPad analog audio output?
The audio coming out of the Yamaha ports would definitely be of a higher quality than the iPad analog audio output. And most certainly on the Montage!
@@BharathKumarIyer I need to try it. I expect it will work the same way as the MODX though the controls are a bit different on Montage.
Brilliant! Thank you man
Amazing very nice idea
hi many thanks for your helpful video, I have a Modx and also have an old iPad third generation will that work the same way? hopefully and also can i ask are the iPad apps that you use expensive thanks in advance
Great,,,,I think we cab do this to PSR SX 900?
I'm not sure. But a quick look at the specs seems to imply that it could work. Maybe try it out and let us know ;)
Well, indeed an interesting insight. Thanks for this Bharath.
However, I would like to know if we can even go ahead and make a patch while combining MODX and the softwares on iPad and record the same or is this combination only for a live performance ? Thanks and keep up the good work. :)
You can configure the iPad audio to also flow through the interface. So it should be possible to record both together. Not just for live performance.
Hi Bharath. Well, do you have any idea if the patches made on ios apps like Animoog could be used for music production on non-apple DAWs like Cubase on PC ?
Are they compatible ? If yes, how can the data be transferred ?
Thanks.
I’m guessing the iPad audio is going into the Yamaha via the camera connection kit, right? Any set up you have to do in the iPad to do that?
I have a MODX-6 and the analog audio in is very straight forward to set up but still can’t manage to use it as an audio interface with my PC...
Ir really works!,,
Is there any way to assign some Animoog parameters to MODX knobs?
Do the apps work outside of Wifi? For live situations in bars with no Wifi etc.
Absolutely! They work great offline.
OK well I have a modx6, did the lightning hookup with both a mini ipad 2 and and iphone, results the same, works a couple of minutes, I hear a little click, the sound from the ios device stops playing, message on the ios device says "accessory not supported" can rehook it in and start playing until it stops within a couple of minutes.. with that kind of reliability I wouldnt even remotely consider using this in a live situation.
Great video bro. Keep it up. Can you tell me the details of the dealer for Yamaha MODX in India? I need one of these.
Yamaha Music is present in all major cities: Mumbai, Bangalore, Delhi. They are the official distributors. There are also many smaller retailers who might be able to get it to you. But just keep in mind the kind of after-sales support you would receive from whoever you buy it from.
Hello, i got a modx6 and i have upgraded to firmware 2.51, do you know if i can connect a p125 yamaha digital piano through usb midi to the modx? Cause p125 doesn't have 5pin standard midi jack. Thanks
Yeah. I think you should be able to hook them up via USB. Let me know how that goes!
Somebody knows if it possible to do the same thing on Roland FA or Juno DS series ? I plan to buy a workstation like the FA 06 or Juno DS 61 because it's less expensive than the MODX. But FA or Juno DS series doesn't have any good LCD screen. The Juno DS has a poor screen and the FA has a better one but not good as the MODX and no touch screen. Using a external app running on an iPad will be a great compromise.
If I'm not mistaken, it's possible on the FA series. Don't think it's possible on the Juno DS. Let me know if you try it and it works! ✌🏽
@@BharathKumarIyer Thx you for your answer. I will buy the FA06 and try to replicate this setup.
You did a very good job on this video, pretty interesting to talk about this aspect of workstation.
Hi sir, this is a very good video. I have a Korg pa900 and an iPad 2018. I want to know how I can connect my iPad with my keyboard. Is it the same as shown in this video, or are there any other options as well?
Secondly I want to know the softwares that I can use on my iPad to sequence, sample and play the wav files in a loop. Can you please tell me what all apps I can use on my iPad for the above functions? Thanks in advance
The connection should be similar. Not sure if the PA900 can do Audio over USB, but it can definitely do MIDI over USB. This will allow you to play the iPad synths, but you may have to route audio separately. For iPad sampling and looping etc, take a look at BeatMaker3, Akai MPC, and Loopy HD. Hope that helps ✌️
@@BharathKumarIyer thanks Sir, and if you could please tell me what all apps i could use with my ipad 2018?
Nice idea! Can I use my MODX7 to trigger samples on the iPad? In addition ... I am looking for the ultimate 'Pop' horns library to house on the iPad and trigger from the MODX7. Looking for something like Earth, Wind & Fire horns without spending a fortune. Do you have a favorite library that would work? Sorry so many questions ... noobie here. Many thanks!
The MODX can definitely be used to trigger samples on iPad. I personally use BeatMaker2 for sample trigger stuff. I've never personally explored horns on iPad, but I read on some forums about an app called Heavy Brass by Crudebyte. The demos looks quite interesting, maybe that? Especially if you want that Earth, Wind & Fire or Tower of Power style sound. But if you're looking at integrating multiple apps simultaneously, definitely check out Audiobus.
@@BharathKumarIyer Hi Bharath. I very belated thank you for your response! I appreciate your information very much.
Thanks alot 🙂
🙏🏽
Hi bro. I’m waiting for my MODX to be delivered by next week and I’ve stumbled onto your video. Great stuff and great ideas indeed 👍🏼👍🏼
I love Moog sounds, I have the moog little phatty and recently upgraded to the sub37.
I didn’t know that such apps existed on AppStore! I’ve had a look and got really surprised and excited at the same time cuz I found out about this in the right time just before getting my MODX! 😄
What would you recommend from the moog apps that would sound good with the MODX?
Hangar18 The model D App (MiniMoog) came out earlier this year. I brought it, and it’s pretty good and the reviews on it are excellent. I’m a little more comfortable navigating the Arturia both VST and iPad, but the Moog branded one is said to sound a little better. I wish Moog’s included more presets, but it’s good and also inexpensive. I’ve heard good things about the Modular 15 too.
I highly doubt the MODX could replicate some of the sounds it can make, or would be as easy or fun for tweaking.
MOXD & iOS apps or a laptop would make a nice combo.
how do u get it to transmit sound back thru keyboard instead of out of ipad speakers? Did it do by default or did u adjust something and how
Why cant i just hook a standard lighting cable? if my ipad has a lighting conector why would I need the camera kit
Because the standard USB cable wouldn't fit. The camera connection kit is used for hosting USB devices via a USB B port. Just see the port shapes, and you'll see why. ✌🏽
@@BharathKumarIyer Actually I have a lighting to USB Midi cable that came with an Iport
Oh great! That saves you some extra cables :)
SORRY PLEASE YAMAHA MODX DOESN'T EMIT SOUND WITHOUT DYNAMIC?
Awesome
I always wondered, in order to do Sequences and some soft synths and plug, should I buy a MacBookPro or can the Ipad do the job ?
Depends on the complexity of the load really. The iPad can do a lot, especially in terms of synths/arps and sequences, and tonally it's on par with PC synths. But if your set is majorly built around usong many samples and effects, then a Mac is probably a better option. The iPad is still a lightweight when it comes to processing power and depth-of-usage, but it's getting comparable to desktop grade power every year. There are things that my iPad Pro(2017) can do that my iPad 2 can't even imagine. I would recommend that you try an iPad out and see if that fits your needs. Hope that helps ✌️
@@BharathKumarIyer Thank you very much for you advise.
it is also worth knowing that the best instruments on ipad cost a tiny fraction of the best vst on a computer - ipad stuff is really very impressive and you can use cubasis as a proper sequencer/daw if you need to.
Beautiful Playing Are you from mumbai ?
Thank you. 🙏 I'm based in Bangalore.
I have the same setup but my iPad is a couple of seconds behind when I layer sounds together how do i fix the delay
The delay in signal is called latency. The simplest way to reduce latency is to reduce thr "buffer size". This is app specific. I would recommend looking around inside the audio preferences/settings inside your program and setting a buffer size of 64 or 128
Hello, it is also possible to load the sounds of the modx directly into garageband on a ios device.
You can record the MODX as an audio track. Not MIDI though. You can record both MIDI & audio in Cubasis for iPad.
with which App can you transpose the MODX ?
The MODX has in-built transposition functionality. Just press the Shift+OctaveUp button to transpose one semitone up. Similarly for transpose down.
From the app perspective, most Synth apps have the possibility to transpose/tune within the app itself. Alternatively if you're working within a Performance, you can transpose only a single track on the MODX, and receive the relevant track/channel on the app.
I hope that clears it up. ✌🏾
@@BharathKumarIyer thank you for your response. I know how to transpose with the Modx but sometimes is not easy for press two buttons at once.
So audio from ipad is returning thru usb cable back into modx or thru earphone jack to something else??
The audio goes from the iPad over USB to the outputs of the MODX
Nice 😎✌️☃️
Can I do this same thing with a Roland FA06? (That's the keyboard I own)
Kushal Mangal yes you can 😎✌️☃️
can you do it with android tablet?
It should work on Android 9 or later I suppose. Let me know if it works!
Can i also use this as a midi controller for a daw like Ableton live or do i need to purchase a seperate midi controller for that?
It acts as a midi controller as well as an audio interface for any laptop based setup as well. So it should work perfectly well with Ableton or any other DAW.
@@BharathKumarIyer Thank you for the quick reply, so basically i will be able to use the knobs on the synth for my vsts sorry for my stupid questions 😂
@@cursedsound .. I just checked this out. It doesn't look like the knobs can be assigned to VSTs as of now, since they send Sysex and not MIDI CC. But the faders, buttons and super knob are all assignable. I hope a future firmware update can fix this.
@@BharathKumarIyer Thank you very much man i think im gonna buy this soon !
Can we do this, using MoXF ?
Great. What about the latency?
I've felt very negligible latency with this setup. I haven't run any tests to check specific numbers, though I expect it to be under 2-5ms.
Can you simply use the iPad charging cable with a B adaptor?
I doubt it. I'd expect that the lighting port iPads would also need the relevant camera connection kit.
so how is the iPad audio routed.? from your setup I assume iPad audio output is taken from modx output?
The audio goes from the iPad over USB to the outputs of the MODX
Bharath Kumar thanks bharath.. so can I use a laptop for the same setup and route the laptop output directly to modx output?
Does it work with Android? Hope You answer😊
It should work on Android 9 or later I suppose
Can I do this on my Montage? I presume so.
This should be possible on Montage as well. But, it doesn't have a dedicated USB Monitor knob, as far as I understand, so the return level might not be as easily controlled as on the MODX. Other than that, the rest (audio & MIDI over USB to/fro iOS) should work.
Has anyone tried connecting a MODX to a different controller keyboard that has aftertouch? One feature I love that is greatly missing. I normally gig with 2 other keyboards that have it, and if I buy a MODX6, I might be able to do that. Only I generally have those keyboards already connected via MIDI to software synths.
Also, if I were to connect a MODX6 to my netbook via USB and use it as a 2nd card as my 2nd laptop in case I had a crash, could I still use the MIDI port on the MODX6 to play sounds from my regular laptop?
Currently, I use a Korg M1, an Axiom 61 midi controller and a Yamaha MX49 on the side. All three are connected to a laptop via MIDI to play soft synths. I recently decided also hooking up my netbook might be a good backup to connect to the side keyboard via USB if I had a crash, and the other keyboards are incapable of reproducing the sounds even close. And for many songs we cover, I tend to doubt I'll be able to reproduce the sounds too close on even a MODX. I could spend a ton of time and money buying 3rd party sound libraries for it, but I still tend to think many of the sounds I'm using will be noticeably worse on most hardware synths. Or that I wouldn't be able to easily figure out how to recreate the sounds myself if it could be done.
As a gigging musician, I've really been feeling the absence of aftertouch recently, especially with a multi-synth setup like what you describe. The Montage (or even Kronos) is obviously the closest option with aftertouch. Sadly, nothing in this price range has aftertouch. I really hope that trend changes. The MODX sound engine is able to respond to after touch, so if you'd like to use it as a sound source and laptop interface, that should be possible.
@@BharathKumarIyer I typically gig with a MODX6 + an M-Audio Axiom 61. The Axiom is also 61 keys, weighs just 15 lbs, has aftertouch, 9 sliders, 9 knobs, waterfall keys and much more. I typically use it with a laptop and soft synths (many of which support aftertouch) and I also have the ability to trigger the MODX and use aftertouch.
The Axiom 61 is plentiful on the used market, and can often be found for around $100 (pre-COVID).
That is a MODX6 you have an a full size iPad? I wasn't sure if the full size would fit on top of a MODX6 and I've been thinking of getting an iPad Mini.
Are you able to fit the full size iPad in the MODX6 back pack gig pad? I think it would fit, but not sure.
Is there any apps to get Indian sounds for the MODX through iPad?
Yes. There are quite a few. One obvious choice, which has a variety of Indian instruments, is SwarPlug. It's an app available on the iOS store. ✌️
Bharath Kumar ohhh okay thank you very much 👍🏽
Cool!
Does it works with iPad 3/4/5th generations?
Yes. It should work. You'll need the relevant camera connection kit with a lightning pin instead of the 30pin that I've used.
Is the sound coming from the piano or the iPad??
The electric piano sound is coming from the MODX
Bharath Kumar thank you
Wish I could do this with my Yamaha Montage8 😥
You should be able to do the same on Montage as well, but you might not get the simplicity of a single volume knob for the iPad
@@BharathKumarIyer how do u get it to transmit sound back thru keyboard instead of out of ipad speakers? Did it do by default or did u adjust something and how
@@musikman337 ..it just works. By default.
I like it. I hope if I subscribe you will answer in the comments any questions I have
Hahah! Thanks for the sub. I'll answer your questions even without a subscription. :D
friend the modx only has connection with iphone? or works with android?
Hi. The MODX should be able to connect to Android devices also. But please check whether the android device supports "class complaint USB audio". I myself haven't tried connecting Android, but it should work.
Does the MoDX charge your iPad via the USB port?
No. Sadly, it does not.
can I do this with iphone xr?
MODX can use android system?
Should be possible. I don't see why not.
Can mp3 music be ran through it too ?
Yes
Did you get that iPad from the Smithsonian? LOL
Hahah. No, but I'm saving it for the Smithsonian ;)
@@BharathKumarIyer Nice come back 😁
What spec ipad
16GB iPad2. WiFi only.
Ipad has no Modx app from Yamaha?
No. Not to my knowledge
Can you play just the sound from the ipad plugin with the volume down on the MODX?
Definitely
Where did you get the animoog from is it an app
Yes, it's an app. Available on the App Store
Bharath Kumar ok thanks
,do you HV anybody to sale mod x in 2ndhand...
Sorry, I don't. Maybe try OLX or Facebook Marketplace? There's a bunch of good deals out there.
What ios app did you use?
As mentioned in the title, I've used 3apps in this video: Animoog, iProphet and iRealPro.
Can you give me some worship chords ? Simple
Is it the modx6 or 7 ?
I'm using the MODX6
@@BharathKumarIyer Is that a "full size" iPad sitting on top of your MODX6 or an iPad Mini?
If full size, how well does it stay seated?
I'd like to find a "Windows" tablet that will "securely" sit on top of my MODX and also easily fit in the MODX6 back pack gig bag.
Windows has a lot more synths available and I'm already using many on a laptop. I like the idea of a small tablet fitting in the gig bag and not needing a stand.
I've used anti-slip dish mat material to help with some gear, which might be suitable. Dollar stores sell it. Cut to size.
The MODX is a deep,complex and versatile keyboard with 2,000 presets and beautiful sounds,so I do not see the purpose of hooking up an iPad.iPad's are for shit-box keyboards like a Yamaha MX or a Korg Kross(where you need an iPad with software synths to avoid or conceal the shit sounds of a lousy keyboard,to do a proper live performance(without getting laughed off the stage.)
No doubt the MODX is a very deep and powerful machine. The iPad just adds extra versatility and possibilities to any synth. It's not about covering up for bad sounds.
Actually, connecting an iPad to a MODX is an excellent idea. I'm considering buying a MODX6 and have demoed them in music stores many times, and watched tons of videos showing the sounds and many expansion sounds that could be used with it from the Montage & MOTIF series. Still, software synths (either from iPad/iPhone or laptop) offer a lot of features not found on these keyboards. The MODX includes some excellent piano & strings. Where it lacks is physical modeling of classic analog synthesizers & Hammond organs. The Korg Kronos had the right idea on modeling, only they didn't model the instruments I really wanted. Sometimes you can get some good results with expansion sound libraries depending on what sounds your looking for, but generally modeling of the original instruments can create a wider variety of sounds and offer more controls over the sounds. The ones I care most about are lead synth sounds from famous instruments to cover famous songs & rock organs. Even on the Montage & MOTIF XF, though you can usually get by, soft synths can produce more faithful recreations. Some of the ones I use, Oberheim OB-X, Prophet V, Mini Moog, Korg M1, Korg Wavestation, Hammond B3. Moog Music offers their own Mini Moog App for iPad and laptops have many similar ones available from Arturia and other companies. Many of the lead synth examples & rock organs I've heard & tried from the Montage / MOTIF series pale next to the laptop full of soft synths I use.I also have many on my iPhone, but iPads offer many more. A regular laptop can also run soft synths of many classic digital synths like the Synclavier, Fairlight, etc. Nearly any classic instrument, and they've made many new ones too. No hardware keyboard can compete with that so far. I'm hoping in the future for the ability to run VST synths directly on a keyboard from a large company like Yamaha, Korg or Roland.
For ultimate portability, I'm hoping my Windows netbook full of the same soft synths as my laptop will fit directly on top of a MODX6. I would tend to think I'd use the soft synth more with my band than the MODX6 sounds for the 80s & 70s rock songs we cover. The MODX6 would be used as a MIDI controller more often than producing it's own sounds, but I could use it as a soundcard for the netbook. One thing I like about the MODX6 is if the netbook crashed, I could probably quickly call up the the closest sounds as the netbook possible and like the netbook, easily create songs using splits with multiple sounds mapped to the keyboard. The MODX6 is also small enough that it might replace my MX49 placed to the right of my 2-tier keyboard setup. I mostly run soft synths on two 61 key synths. And it likely includes the MX sounds I use, since they were taken from the MOTIF XS. MX sounds by the way can be very good. I suspect a large portion of the MODX sounds are identical and both use the AWM2 engine for creating sounds. MODX includes a much larger sample library to build sounds, FM-X, the Super Knob for expression, etc.
The MX series can't be beat for even more portability and lower cost that still does an excellent job of many sounds. And it still has the same AWM2 engine. MX49 weights only 8 lbs (the one I have) and takes very little stage space and is very affordable. Importing MOTIF libraries is more complicated, extra cost for software, and questionable if the results will match or not. Biggest disadvantage. Since my LCD broke, I can't explore that option right now (I don't think) but I originally planned on it. Now I may just save for the MODX6.
The ipad is not just for soft synths that expand on what the MODX already offers. Use the Ipad as a sequencer for the MODX, or use programs like Fugue Machine for generative music. Use the Ipad to sample and edit waveforms, then import them into the MODX engine. The MODX acts as the audio interface for an Ipad plugged into its USB port, it is an ideal accessory to a MODX.