FIRMWARE

IMPORTANT – READ BEFORE INSTALLING

APPLE USERS - BEWARE

We DO NOT advise using an Apple device to update the firmware. Apple's OS having integrated MIDI core drivers, sometimes this can cause problems updating the firmware.  Many users have been unsuccessful in the updating process using Apple OSX, some have even bricked their Rang III rendering it non-functional and in need of a repair. 

DO NOT USE THESE PROGRAMS TO UPDATE 

We do NOT recommend using any software like Protools, Logic, Ableton Live, Garageband, FL Studio, Cakewalk, Cubebase, or any other similar DAW. This is because these programs tend to send MIDI messages in the background and could potentially disrupt and hurt the firmware update process. For best results, use the simple MIDI players we recommend

REQUIREMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 

For the best results, we recommend using a Windows based computer and a free program called MIDI Ox (midiox.com). Please make a donation to them if you can; we gave $100 as MIDI Ox is a very powerful tool.  Best USB/MIDI interfaces are the M-Audio MIDIsport I/O M-Audio (now called Avid) Fast Track Pro, M-Audio Uno, or anything equivalent.

You’ll need a USB to MIDI interface. 

Best USB/MIDI interfaces are the M-Audio MIDIsport I/O M-Audio (now called Avid) Fast Track Pro, M-Audio Uno, or anything equivalent.

DETERMINING WHICH FIRMWARE IS CURRENTLY INSTALLED

To verify which software version is install on your Boomerang III, hold down the loop 1 button and Yellow Bonus Button throughout the entire

power-up sequence (about 10 seconds).  You'll end up with the clock's center light on and possibly one other light. Release the buttons.

Press loop 1 to see the first digit of the software version; the clock display shows you. Release and press loop 2 for the second digit.

Release and press loop 3 for the third digit.

        050        = V1.0 - 2009, Aug

        103-104 = V2.0 - 2010, Sep

        111        = V2.1 - 2011, Jul

        114        = V2.2 - 2012, Jun

        118-122 = V3.0 - 2012, Dec

        125        = V3.1 - 2013, Nov

        127        = V3.2 - 2013, Dec

        129        = V3.3 - 2014, May

        131        = V3.4 - 2014, Sep

     134       = V3.5 - (not stable)                                       

FIRMWARE VERSION HISTORY

Version 1.0  2009, Aug - This is the initial release that supported all the Bonus button functions but had only Serial and Serial-Sync Play Styles.

Version 2.0  2010, Sep - Our original concept of the III was completed with the addition of Sync and Free Play Styles.

Version 2.1  2011, Jul - Added support for the Side Car™ controller and the ability to control Decay Rate with an expression pedal were added.

Version 2.2  2012, Jun - Just a bug fix. Only one player came across this particular cockroach, but it was significant enough that we spent time squashing it.

Version 3.0  2012, Dec - Added quantizing loops to an external MIDI clock allowing it to play in sync with the MIDI clock. MIDI Start & Stop commands are supported.

Jack monitoring - It's no longer necessary to plug in signal cables before powering up. Cable changes are recognized on the fly.

Version 3.1  2013, Nov - Added "Brother Sync" capability. Multiple III's can play synchronously WITHOUT an external MIDI clock. Added Reset function.

Version 3.2  2013, Dec - 2 bug fixes: (1) fixed volume problem when running 2 inputs & 1 output, (2) adjustment to ensure exp pedals take Decay Rate to zero.

Version 3.3  2014, May - Added "active" MIDI sync algorithm; a serious improvement over V3.0. Your loops will stay with an external MIDI clock signal FOREVER!!

Version 3.4  2014, Sep - Added an easier way to record and play a loop with Stacking active; it only requires two loop button taps. And a small bug was fixed.

STEP BY STEP UPDATE PROCEDURE

IF YOU HAVE VERSION 2.1 OR EARLIER, READ BELOW

To successfully update the firmware from versions 2 or older, it is required that you first update to 3.3 and then from there you can update to 3.4.  Just simply power down the Rang once the first update is successful and repeat the steps. DO NOT INTERRUPT THE UPDATE OR UNPLUG YOUR RANG WHILE THE MIDI FILE IS PLAYING.

WARNING AND DISCLAIMER

- On the rare occasion that the file transfer is unsuccessful, I will unplug the Rang and restart the process. I have never had this method corrupt software, but Mike had mentioned only 5 issues in his warnings: "** DO NOT begin a download until your III has completed its initialization & power up sequence - This takes at least 10 seconds.

** If a download renders your III inoperable, all costs associated with fixing it are your responsibility. ** Downloading software is NOT covered by warranty. ** This is necessary due to the unpredictable nature using a wide range of computers, operating systems, drivers and hardware interfaces. 

Having said that, hundreds of customers have performed software downloads without a problem. In fact only 5 have actually "bricked" their pedals.