Nano Cortex gets Huge MIDI Control Improvements with NanOS 2.1

Individual effect slot MIDI control now possible on Nano Cortex

Users Wanted More MIDI Power

When the Nano Cortex was first released, many users — including ourselves — were surprised (and honestly, a bit disappointed) by how limited its MIDI functionality was.

At launch, MIDI control was restricted to recalling presets using Program Change (PC) messages, meaning the device could only switch between presets, offering no real-time effect manipulation.

We hoped Neural DSP would deliver an operating system update to expand MIDI capabilities. Still, we weren’t optimistic. It seemed like a deliberate limitation—possibly to avoid feature overlap with the Quad Cortex.

But we were wrong. And boy, are we glad we were.

NanOS2.1: Major MIDI Enhancements

NanOS 2.1 has officially arrived, and it brings a massive boost in MIDI control for the Nano Cortex. The headline feature? Support for incoming MIDI CC (Control Change) messages.

Key MIDI Features in NanOS 2.1:

• Engage or bypass individual effect blocks using MIDI CC

• Use MIDI to tap in or set pre-set tempo (CC and MIDI clock)

• Activate tuner

• Control expression pedal position via MIDI

This update transforms the Nano Cortex into a more modular, pedalboard-style effects unit that is fully programmable and responsive to your MIDI controller.

CC Control of Individual Effect Slots

This is probably the most highly anticipated MIDI feature requested for by Nano Cortex users, and for a good reason too.

Benefits of Individual Effect Slot Control:

• Greater real-time control – You no longer need to switch entire presets to toggle a single effect.

• Improved efficiency – Avoid creating duplicate presets just to manage on/off states for individual blocks.

• Gapless transitions – Seamlessly activate gain, delay, modulation, reverb, or other effects during specific song sections with no gap (there have been user reports of a gas in sound when transitioning between presets on the Nano Cortex).

  
  

Being able to engage and bypass individual effects via MIDI gives you far more creative flexibility and performance control than ever before.

Instead of switching entire presets just to toggle one effect, you can now seamlessly bring effects in or out on the fly — whether it’s turning on a delay for a solo, toggling modulation during a verse, or bypassing reverb in a tight mix. This eliminates the need for duplicate presets and lets you build dynamic, expressive live setups that respond to your playing in real time.

MIDI Expression Control

With NanOS2.1, you can also use MIDI CC messages to control the Nano Cortex’s expression pedal position. This is a big deal because you can now use a single expression pedal to control not just the Nano Cortex, but multiple MIDI-capable devices in your rig, all from one source.

All you need is:

• An expression pedal connected to your Morningstar controller

• A MIDI connection between the controller and the Nano Cortex

Expression control over the Nano Cortex via MIDI

Important Setup Tip for Expression Control

One thing to keep in mind:

If the Nano Cortex’s EXP port is set to receive MIDI, you won’t be able to map controls to an expression pedal. To configure your mappings properly, follow these steps:

1. Set the EXP port to “Expression” mode

2. Select the parameters and ranges you want to control

3. Switch the port back to “MIDI” mode to continue receiving MIDI via the EXP port

Recommended Setup for Morningstar PRO Users

If you’re using a Morningstar PRO controller, we highly recommend connecting the USB Host port directly to the Nano Cortex. This allows MIDI communication without using the EXP port, so you a can leave the Nano Cortex's EXP port in MIDI mode and avoid this issue entirely.

We’ve reached out to Neural DSP and requested that they consider allowing expression pedal mapping even when the EXP port is set to MIDI in a future firmware update and they've responded saying that Nano Cortex team is working on it. Finger crossed.

Seamless Integration with Morningstar MIDI Controllers

In true Morningstar style, we've already integrated these MIDI functions into our MIDI Dictionary, so you don’t need to dig through the Nano Cortex manual to find out what MIDI messages you need.

Just open the MIDI Dictionary in the Morningstar Editor, select the function you want to assign, and you’re good to go.

All MIDI-controllable Nano Cortex functions are found in the MIDI Dictionary in the Morningstar Editor

Final Thoughts: Nano Cortex Becomes a True MIDI Powerhouse

With the release of NanOS 2.1, the Nano Cortex has taken a massive leap forward — evolving from a preset-only compact modeler into a versatile, fully MIDI-controllable effects unit.

You can now:

• Engage and bypass individual effects using MIDI CC

• Control expression pedal parameters from a single external source

• Set BPM, tap tempo, and more—all via MIDI

• Seamlessly integrate the Nano Cortex into multi-device MIDI rigs

Thanks to this update, Nano Cortex owners no longer have to compromise between portability and control. You can now build flexible, dynamic live setups or studio workflows without the need for workarounds or excessive preset duplication.

And if you’re using a Morningstar controller, all the new MIDI functionality is already supported and mapped in the Editor — making setup fast, intuitive, and frustration-free.

Update Now and Take Full Control

Whether you’re building a minimal travel board or integrating the Nano Cortex into a larger MIDI rig, NanOS 2.1 is the update you’ve been waiting for. Update your Nano Cortex using the Cortex Cloud app.