Pre-recorded audio sequence triggered by MIDI controller

[Telefan]

Hi. I need some sort of device which -through a MIDI controller, may trigger a pre-recorded audio sequence for my band's live performance. It's a whole wave file for each song and what I've been doing so far is to use my iPod to trigger a stereo wave file, one side with a metronome, the other with the pre-recorded sequence: metronome signal to drummer, and pre-recorded signal to mix, thus there hasn't been any sync problem so far between live performance and pre-recorded sequence. I need to go very fast and smooth from one song to another. Any idea? I don't want to use any laptop or computer based software... I just don't trust on them. Better if it's in rack format. Thanks and regards. X.

[Stan]

What do you use to play the audio files? What kind of trigger input does it have?
There are lots of simple trigger devices, so the choice depends on the equipment you already have.

[Telefan]

The process I follow is extremely simple. First of all let me explain this is a regular band configuration (bass, drums, guitar, and vocals) and this sequence I'm referring to is a bunch of keyboards, and percussion loops.

Currently drummer triggers an iPod from his own place. What's been triggered is a standard stereo wave file, left side with a metronome signal, right side with the pre-recorded sequence. Metronome starts 8 measures before sequence so first 4 measures allow him to be prepared to countdown the second 4 measures for the rest of the band.

Regarding the routing of signals, stereo signal leaves the iPod and it's splitted in separate cables just like a "Y". Metronome signal goes to a headphone amplifier, and then to drummer's ears. Pre-recorded sequence goes directly to mixer and PA system.

As you can see we don't like to complicate things however I need a more reliable device. Adittionally I would like to improve the process by triggering each song from my MIDI controller (I'm the guitar player!)... the same controller I use to switch from one song to another on my rack of effects... that's why it would also be a plus if this sort of device comes in rack format (just to make things even easier, you know!). I would like to be the one who triggers and set up the next song, however I would like the drummer to trigger and actually PLAY the song. Am I asking too much?

I'm looking forward to hearing from you. Thanks for your assistance and time. Cheers. X.