Can you run MIDI through USB?

What is MIDI?

MIDI stands for Musical Instrument Digital Interface. It is a technical standard that connects digital musical instruments, computers, tablets, etc. It allows musical data to be transferred between devices. MIDI was first developed in the early 1980s according to the MIDI Association’s article on The History of MIDI.

What is USB?

USB stands for Universal Serial Bus. It is an industry standard for cables and connectors that are used to connect computers to devices like keyboards, mice, printers, external hard drives, and more. USB became widely adopted in the late 1990s as a simpler way to connect devices compared to the wide array of specialized ports that were used before.

The creation of USB can be traced back to the mid-1990s. At the time, computers had a confusing array of connection ports on the back, including serial ports, parallel ports, PS/2 ports, and more. This made it complicated for users to connect new peripherals. To simplify things, seven leading technology companies came together in 1995 to develop a standard plug-and-play connection system, which became known as USB.

The first USB specification, USB 1.0, was introduced in 1996. It provided data rates up to 12 Mbit/s, much faster than existing serial and parallel ports. While initially slow to gain traction, USB became widely adopted in the late 1990s as it started appearing on new computers and peripherals. Subsequent versions like USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 increased speeds tremendously while retaining backwards compatibility.

Today, USB has effectively replaced most legacy connection types and become the standard interface for connecting peripherals to computers. Its ubiquity and ease-of-use has been a key enabler of plug-and-play computer peripherals for over two decades.

Connecting MIDI and USB

MIDI data can be transmitted over USB cables using MIDI interfaces that have USB connections. This allows MIDI devices like keyboards, controllers, and instruments to connect to computers and audio workstations via USB instead of the traditional 5-pin MIDI cables.

Many modern MIDI devices have built-in USB MIDI connectivity. This allows them to plug directly into a computer’s USB port to send and receive MIDI data. Some examples include:

• USB MIDI keyboards like the Arturia KeyLab Essential 88
• DJ controllers with built-in USB MIDI like the Pioneer DDJ-SB3
• Synthesizers with USB MIDI such as the Behringer DeepMind 12

For older MIDI gear without built-in USB, you can add USB connectivity using an external USB MIDI interface. These convert MIDI signals to USB so you can connect MIDI devices to a computer. Some popular options are the Roland UM-ONE and M-Audio Uno.

Benefits

Using USB for MIDI setups is convenient and simple as you can easily connect devices with a common USB cable without the need for special ports or hardware. USB cables are readily available and inexpensive and allow for plug-and-play connectivity to quickly get setup (https://www.boysetsfire.net/the-perfect-spot-for-your-rock-bands-drums/). MIDI over USB replaces the need for traditional 5-pin MIDI cables and connectors, allowing you to transmit MIDI data over a single USB cable between devices.

This greatly simplifies connections between MIDI controllers, synthesizers, drum machines, and computers/tablets/mobile devices. USB-MIDI setups only require the devices to have a USB port, rather than MIDI ports or interfaces. The convenience and simplicity of using a standard USB connection makes MIDI over USB accessible to more users.

Challenges

While connecting MIDI devices over USB offers convenience and simplicity, there are some potential challenges to be aware of:

Latency issues can occur due to the way USB handles data transfer and audio processing. This can result in delays or lag between when a note is played on a MIDI keyboard and when the sound is heard from the computer. Budget USB-MIDI interfaces tend to have more latency problems compared to higher-end professional models.

Driver compatibility can also be a problem, especially on older operating systems. Conflicts between the MIDI interface drivers and other drivers on your system can cause crashes or glitches. Keeping drivers updated is important to avoid these types of issues.

Power supply limitations with bus-powered USB devices is another consideration. Heavily loaded busses may not provide enough power for multiple devices. Using a powered USB hub helps provide consistent power delivery.

Build quality can vary greatly between low-cost and high-end USB-MIDI interfaces. Cheaper models may have lower quality DACs (digital-to-analog converters) or experience problems like signal noise or jitter. Investing in a better quality interface provides higher performance and reliability.

Tips for Setting Up

Here are some tips to help make sure you set up your MIDI over USB connection properly:

First, make sure to install the latest drivers for your MIDI device. Manufacturers often release driver updates that can improve functionality and compatibility. Check the manufacturer’s website to find and download the most up-to-date drivers. For example, see this guide for installing Steinberg USB MIDI drivers.

Second, use powered USB hubs if you are experiencing issues with connectivity or power. Connecting multiple MIDI devices can sometimes overload the power from a single USB port. Adding a powered hub creates a more robust USB environment. This Reddit thread discusses solutions like using a powered hub.

Third, adjust buffer settings in your MIDI software to reduce latency. Too high of a buffer setting can cause lags between pressing a key and hearing the note. Lower settings reduce latency but may impact stability if set too low. Finding the optimal balance for your setup is key.

And finally, use high-quality USB cables. Cheap cables can sometimes result in connection issues and intermittent dropping of MIDI data. Invest in good cables specifically made for MIDI to ensure a reliable connection.

Popular Hardware Options

Some of the most popular USB MIDI keyboards and interfaces include:

• Arturia KeyLab Essential – Available in 49 or 61 key versions starting at around $200. These lightweight keyboards work with major DAWs and offer great value. See models on Thomann.
• Akai MPK Mini – Compact 25 key MIDI keyboard starting around $100. Widely used with laptop productions and portable setups. Find on Amazon.
• Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol – Advanced keyboards integrating tightly with NI software. Models range from $500 to $1,000+. See the NI site.

For larger 88-key controllers, popular options are:

• M-Audio Keystation 88 – Affordable full-sized controller around $200. Connects easily via USB.
• Roland A-88MKII – High-quality hammer-action MIDI keyboard for around $1,500. Features USB and 5-pin MIDI connections.

Many audio interfaces like the Focusrite Scarlett also function as MIDI interfaces when connected via USB. Prices range from $100 to $500+ depending on I/O counts and features.

Software Compatibility

Most DAWs (digital audio workstations) are compatible with USB MIDI devices. However, you may need to configure your DAW and MIDI device to get them to communicate properly. Be sure to check compatibility between your DAW software, operating system, and MIDI hardware before purchasing.

According to Reddit users on r/synthesizers, popular DAWs like Ableton Live, FL Studio, Logic Pro, and Pro Tools generally work well with USB MIDI controllers and interfaces. However, you may need to install drivers or change MIDI settings to get everything working smoothly.

The Sweetwater article Getting Started with DAW Controllers notes that most controllers connect via USB, either directly or through a powered hub. So USB connectivity is common. But you still need to configure MIDI input and output settings within your DAW.

Check your DAW’s website and user forums to find specifics on USB MIDI device compatibility. Issues are more common on older operating systems. So you may need to update your OS, DAW, or MIDI device software and firmware to maintain full functionality.

Example Setups

Here are a couple common real-world examples for setting up MIDI over USB:

Keyboard to Computer: Connect a USB cable from your digital piano or keyboard’s USB port directly to your computer. Most modern keyboards have a USB MIDI port which can send MIDI data to your PC or Mac. Once connected, you’ll be able to record MIDI data into your DAW or music production software like Ableton or Logic Pro. Many keyboards will be immediately recognized once plugged in via USB. You may need to configure your DAW to recognize the device as a MIDI input.

MIDI Controller to iPad/Tablet: Connect a USB to MIDI cable from your MIDI keyboard controller or drum pad controller to your iPad or tablet. Most tablets have USB ports or adapters available. The MIDI controller will send note information over USB which you can then use to trigger virtual instruments and sounds in music apps on your iPad like GarageBand. Be sure to power your MIDI controller, as the iPad cannot provide power over USB.

The Future of MIDI over USB

As USB technology continues to advance, the adoption of USB MIDI is expected to grow. Newer versions of USB like USB-C offer higher bandwidth and power delivery, which helps enable lower latency performance. This will make USB an even more appealing option for connecting MIDI gear and controllers (Basics of USB-MIDI).

Better driver support and class compliant connectivity in modern operating systems also improves the plug-and-play experience with USB MIDI. This takes away the complexities of installing drivers and troubleshooting connectivity issues.

Looking ahead, wireless and web-based protocols like RTP-MIDI may also emerge as alternatives to USB for some MIDI applications. While USB will remain the most common physical interface, wireless MIDI over WiFi or Bluetooth can allow even more flexibility and portability when cable connections are impractical (MIDI 2.0 simplified).

As both software and hardware continue to evolve, USB MIDI will remain at the core of most studios and live performance setups. However, new options like wireless MIDI and web-based protocols will give users even more choices in how they connect MIDI devices and route note data.