MIDI Note Numbering Standards Explained

Overview

There are two commonly used standards for MIDI note numbering, and this can sometimes cause confusion when comparing MIDI devices, software, and MIDI monitors.

The difference is simply how applications label Middle C:

• Some systems define Middle C as C3
• Others define Middle C as C4

Both systems refer to the same MIDI note number internally.

MIDI Note 60

According to the MIDI Standard ISO system:

• MIDI Note 60 = Middle C (C4)

This is the standard used by our products.

Why MIDI Monitors May Show Different Note Names

Some MIDI monitors or DAWs use an alternate octave numbering convention where:

• MIDI Note 60 = C3

As a result, the same MIDI note can appear with a different note name even though the actual MIDI data is correct.

Verifying Correct Operation

If your MIDI monitor is configured to use:

• C4 as Middle C

then the MIDI output from the MC4 Pro will display correctly according to the ISO standard.

Conclusion

Our MIDI Controllers follows the MIDI Standard ISO convention:

• MIDI Note 60 = C4 (Middle C)

If note names appear offset by one octave in a MIDI monitor or DAW, this is typically due to the software using a different octave numbering standard rather than an issue with the MIDI data itself.

Updated on: 18/05/2026