The Free The Tone MC-3 is a compact, easy-to-operate programmable MIDI controller: a single-switch unit that sends MIDI program change messages to control pedals, multi-effects units and rack gear. Free The Tone positions it in its system products line as a simple way to change presets or programs on MIDI-equipped equipment from the floor1.
It is a small unit, 120mm wide by 95.7mm deep by 54.1mm high including protrusions such as the footswitches, and weighs about 315g not including the battery12.
What it does
The MC-3 has two operating modes. Mode 1 is the program change number send mode: it selects one channel from channel 1 to channel 16 and sends program change numbers 1 to 128 on that channel. Mode 2 is a preset mode1. For a player, that covers the basic job of a small MIDI controller: dialing up programs on a MIDI pedal or rack unit without reaching down to touch it.
It sits in the wider field of MIDI controllers, a category that includes larger multi-switch units such as the Morningstar MC3, which sends up to 16 different MIDI messages per switch, and Free The Tone's own MB-3 and MB-5. The Free The Tone MC-3 is the single-switch, battery-capable end of that range31.
Power
The MC-3 runs on DC9V from either a 9V battery (006P type) or a standard DC9V AC adapter. Free The Tone notes that because it can run on a 9V battery, it can be used anywhere without needing a power supply. Current draw is about 25mA12.
Battery life depends on battery type. Free The Tone gives approximate operating times in actual use of about 10 hours on a manganese battery and about 35 hours on an alkaline battery1.
Specifications
| Item | Specification |
|---|---|
| Power | DC9V, battery (9V 006P type) or AC adapter1 |
| Current draw | about 25mA2 |
| Terminals | DIN 5-pin connector (MIDI OUT), DC9V input jack1 |
| MIDI | Program change numbers 1 to 128, selectable channel 1 to 16 (Mode 1)1 |
| Modes | Mode 1 (program change send), Mode 2 (preset)1 |
| Size | 120(W) x 95.7(D) x 54.1(H)mm including protrusions1 |
| Weight | about 315g (battery not included)2 |
In the box
Free The Tone lists the included accessories as:
- Warranty card
- Website access card
- Safety precautions
- Rubber feet x 42
Questions
Does the Free The Tone MC-3 run on a battery?
Yes. Free The Tone says the MC-3 can run on a 9V battery (006P type), which lets it be used anywhere without a power supply. A standard DC9V AC adapter can also be used, connected to the DC9V input jack. Current draw is about 25mA.
How long does a battery last in the MC-3?
Free The Tone gives approximate operating times of about 10 hours on a manganese battery and about 35 hours on an alkaline battery in actual use.
What MIDI channels can the MC-3 send on?
The MC-3 sends program change numbers 1 to 128 on one selectable channel chosen from channel 1 to channel 16, in Mode 1, its program change number send mode.
What MIDI connector does the MC-3 use?
The MC-3 uses a standard DIN 5-pin connector for its MIDI OUT, alongside a DC9V input jack for AC adapter connection.
What comes in the box with the MC-3?
Free The Tone lists the included accessories as a warranty card, a website access card, safety precautions, and four rubber feet.
How big is the Free The Tone MC-3?
The MC-3 measures 120mm wide by 95.7mm deep by 54.1mm high, including protrusions such as the footswitches, and weighs about 315g not including the battery.
Sources (3)
- MC-3｜Products 商品紹介｜Free The Tone, Free The Tone
- MC-3｜Products 商品紹介｜Free The Tone, Free The Tone
- MC3 - Morningstar Engineering, Morningstar Engineering
