MOTU Micro Express USB II - Professional MIDI Interface and SMPTE Sync
The MOTU Micro Express USB II is a robust and versatile MIDI signal management solution for any music production environment, from home studios to professional setups. This device combines a high-performance MIDI interface with 4 inputs and 6 outputs, a programmable patchbay, a merger, and a professional-grade SMPTE timecode synchronizer, all in a compact, USB-powered unit. Designed for seamless plug-and-play connectivity with both Mac and Windows systems, the Micro Express II is the perfect hub for connecting all your keyboards, synthesizers, drum machines, control surfaces, and other MIDI gear to your computer with impeccable timing accuracy.
Thanks to MOTU's award-winning technology, this interface guarantees ultra-fast and reliable MIDI data transmission. Its ability to function independently as a patchbay or merger without a computer makes it an indispensable tool for live performances as well. Furthermore, its compatibility with all SMPTE timecode formats, including the crucial 23.976 fps for film and video post-production, ensures perfect synchronization between your music and the image.
Main Features
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Extended Connectivity: It has 4 independent MIDI inputs and 6 independent MIDI outputs , allowing you to manage up to 96 MIDI channels simultaneously and connect a large number of devices without complications.
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4x6 Routing Matrix: Its powerful internal matrix allows you to route any input to any output, offering complete flexibility for configuring complex signal flows. Connect any device to any other with ease.
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Professional SMPTE Synchronization: Convert and generate SMPTE timecode in all frame formats (including 23.976, 24, 25, 29.97 drop/non-drop, and 30). Ideal for audio and video post-production, ensuring your music project is always synchronized with the video.
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Standalone Mode: The Micro Express II can function as a MIDI patchbay and mixer (merger) without being connected to a computer. Simply connect it to a standard USB power source and it's ready to manage your hardware setup live or in the studio.
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Sub-Millisecond Precision: Incorporates MOTU's MIDI Time Stamping (MTS) technology, which ensures sub-millisecond level time accuracy, eliminating latency and jitter issues for perfect timing in your recordings.
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ClockWorks™ Control Software: Includes ClockWorks™ software for Mac and Windows, which provides a graphical interface for easily configuring MIDI message routing, merging, and filtering.
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USB powered: No external power supply is needed. It is powered directly from your computer's USB port, simplifying installation and reducing cable clutter.
Benefits for the Music Producer
The MOTU Micro Express USB II is designed to solve the most common connectivity and synchronization challenges in the modern studio. For the music producer, this translates into a faster, more stable, and more creative workflow. Forget about MIDI latency issues and constantly reconnecting cables. Centralize control of all your hardware, from vintage synthesizers to modern controllers, and keep them perfectly synchronized with your DAW. The ability to save and load up to 16 presets (8 of which are programmable) lets you switch between studio and live setups instantly.
Use Cases
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Production Studio: Acts as the MIDI brain of your studio, connecting multiple controller keyboards, sound modules, synthesizers, and drum machines to your production software (DAW).
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Live performances: Use it in standalone mode to route and mix MIDI signals on stage, allowing you to control multiple instruments from a single master keyboard without the need for a computer.
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Video and film post-production: Synchronize your sequencer or DAW with a video track via SMPTE to compose soundtracks or design sound effects with absolute frame accuracy.
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Hardware and software integration: Combine the best of both worlds, sending sequences from your DAW to control hardware synthesizers and recording your performances back to your computer with perfect timing.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need an external power supply for it to work?
- No, the Micro Express USB II is powered directly through the USB cable when connected to a computer. For standalone use, any standard USB charger is sufficient.
- Is it compatible with the latest Mac and Windows operating systems?
- Yes, MOTU regularly provides updated drivers to ensure compatibility with the latest versions of macOS and Windows. It is recommended to check the official MOTU website to download the latest drivers before installation.
- What is SMPTE timecode and why is it important?
- It's a film and television industry standard that allows for frame-by-frame synchronization of audio and video. It's essential for any work involving composing music or adding sound to an image.
- Can I use the interface without a computer?
- Yes, one of its great benefits is its ability to function as a MIDI patchbay (for routing signals) and merger (for combining signals) autonomously, which is ideal for hardware-based live setups.
- What does ClockWorks™ software allow me to do?
- ClockWorks™ is a powerful application that allows you to graphically configure all interface functions, such as creating custom routing maps, filtering specific types of MIDI data, and programming the 8 user presets.
Project description
MIDI/USB interface with 4 inputs and 6 outputs (5-DIN), for a total of 96 MIDI channels. It offers patchbay, merger, and standalone MIDI processor functions. It incorporates an SMPTE timecode synchronizer compatible with all standard formats (23.976, 24, 25, 29.97, and 30 fps) via 6.3 mm jack connectors. It features a 4x6 routing matrix and 16 memory presets (8 factory presets, 8 user presets programmable with battery backup). It provides high-precision synchronization via MIDI Time Stamping (MTS) and supports MIDI Machine Control (MMC) messages. It includes a footswitch input. USB connectivity for Mac and Windows operating systems. USB bus powered.
