MIDI devices are connected together by connecting MIDI cables to their MIDI interfaces.

What is a MIDI interface?

A MIDI interface takes the form of at least one or two, often three 5-pin DIN sockets called Ports (identical physically to the those used with domestic Hi-Fi) situated on the casing (usually the rear) of a MIDI device. They will be marked In, Out, and Thru.

• The In Port accepts MIDI messages
• The Out Port transmits MIDI data originating from the device
• The Thru Port passes on an exact duplicate of the data received at the In port

Where can MIDI interfaces be found?

All MIDI devices have a MIDI interface containing at least 1 In and 1 Out port. Some MIDI devices have multiple In and Out ports, such as computer MIDI interfaces.

Here are some devices that have MIDI interfaces ...

• Soundcards
• Drum machines
• USB computer MIDI interfaces
• Keyboards
• Synthesisers
• Samplers
• FX units
• Digital mixers

Cables

MIDI cables carry MIDI messages in one direction only. Therefore 2 cables are required to carry messages to and from a device.

Cables terminate with so called 5 Pin Din plugs. Cable length between devices should be restricted to a maximum of 15m to ensure data integrity. It is also advisable not to daisy-chain, via their Thru ports, more than three devices.

View our MIDI system diagram next.

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