Using MIDI Files to Control Animatronics Info Please

I know

Nowadays, I wonder if MIDI is the best choice. DMX is a lighting protocol, which is commonly used to control robotic lights. I've seen boards available to integrate DMX into animatronics.

I think the main issue is deciding on the software you are using to control the animatronic figure. A big benefit for both DMX and MIDI is that there is readily available software that can integrate sound and playback of those protocol. MIDI is easier to get software for playback. Even Microsoft's PowerPoint can play back a MIDI file embedded in a slide.

Another trend in theatrical lighting is to do DMX protocol, but route it over Ethernet. There is a new theatrical protocol, but I can't recall its initials. But, DMX will not die any time soon, and remains the dominant means of controlling lights, both regular and robotic.

Here are a few links to DMX/animatronic related sites.