MOTU MIDI EXPRESS XT - Professional 128-Channel USB MIDI Interface with SMPTE Sync
The MOTU MIDI Express XT is a professional and robust solution for managing complex MIDI studios in both recording and live environments. Designed with MOTU's award-winning technology, this interface combines 8 MIDI inputs and 8 MIDI outputs, a programmable patchbay, a MIDI data processor, and an SMPTE timecode synchronizer in a single rack unit. It offers stable, high-speed plug-and-play connectivity to any Mac or Windows computer equipped with a USB port, ensuring sub-millisecond timing accuracy thanks to MOTU's MIDI Time Stamping (MTS) technology.
With 128 manageable MIDI channels, the Express XT becomes the central hub of any hardware setup. It allows you to connect and route synthesizers, drum machines, control surfaces, and any other MIDI device with complete flexibility. Its ability to operate independently (without a computer) makes it an indispensable tool for live performances, allowing you to load preset configurations instantly. Furthermore, its comprehensive SMPTE timecode implementation positions it as an industry standard for audio and video synchronization, offering support for all frame formats and advanced features such as jam sync.
Main Features
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Extensive Connectivity: Features 8 independent MIDI inputs and 9 outputs, offering a total of 128 MIDI channels to handle large studio setups. Includes a front panel input/output port for quick and convenient access.
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Professional SMPTE Synchronization: Integrated with a high-quality SMPTE timecode synchronizer that reads and stripes all frame formats (24, 25, 29.97 drop/non-drop, 30, and 23.976 fps). The "Jam Sync" function with adjustable freewheeling ensures seamless synchronization, ideal for video and audio post-production.
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Standalone Operation: Operates as a patchbay, merger, and MIDI processor without needing to be connected to a computer. Stores 16 presets (8 factory presets and 8 user-programmable presets) accessible from the front panel to reconfigure your entire studio with the touch of a button.
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ClockWorks™ Software: Includes powerful software for Mac and Windows that allows detailed graphical editing of routing, merging, filtering, and synchronization settings from the comfort of your computer.
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Exceptional Precision: Thanks to the high-speed USB connection and MOTU's MIDI Time Stamping (MTS) technology, the Express XT offers ultra-precise rhythmic accuracy, eliminating latency and jitter issues.
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Control and Expansion: It supports MIDI Machine Control (MMC), allowing it to act as a master or slave to control the transport of DAWs and other compatible devices. Furthermore, the system is expandable: simply connect other MOTU MIDI interfaces to additional USB ports to increase the number of channels.
Benefits for the Musician and Producer
The MIDI Express XT is designed for the professional who demands reliability, flexibility, and precision. It eliminates the complexity of managing multiple MIDI devices, allowing you to focus on creativity. For post-production producers, its robust SMPTE sync engine ensures that audio and video remain perfectly aligned. On stage, its standalone operation and instantly recallable presets provide the confidence and control needed for a flawless performance. The all-metal construction and internal power supply ensure consistent durability and performance, whether in the studio or on the road.
Use Cases
This interface is ideal for professional recording studios and advanced home studios with a large number of synthesizers and hardware sound modules. It's perfect for film and television composers who need to precisely synchronize their music with the visuals. It's also an invaluable tool for keyboardists and live musicians who use multiple MIDI setups and need to quickly and reliably switch between complex configurations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a computer to use the MIDI Express XT?
Not necessarily. The interface can function in standalone mode as a MIDI patchbay/merger once you've saved your settings. You can select any of the 16 presets from the front panel without needing a computer.
Is it compatible with modern operating systems?
Yes, MOTU provides updated drivers for the latest versions of macOS and Windows, ensuring optimal compatibility and performance with current software and hardware.
What is SMPTE synchronization and why do I need it?
SMPTE timecode is an industry standard for synchronizing audio, video, and other devices. It's essential if you work in video post-production, film, or any application where music or sound needs to be perfectly aligned with a visual timeline.
Can I use more than one interface at the same time?
Yes. The system is easily expandable. You can connect additional MIDI Express XT units or other MOTU MIDI interfaces to different USB ports on your computer, and your software will recognize them as additional MIDI ports.
Project Description
1U rackmount MIDI-USB interface. It offers 8 MIDI inputs and 9 MIDI outputs (1 front, 8 rear), managing a total of 128 channels. It features SMPTE timecode synchronization and conversion for all frame rates (23.976, 24, 25, 29.97 drop/non-drop, 30). It supports MIDI Machine Control (MMC) and MIDI Time Stamping (MTS) for sub-millisecond timing. It operates in standalone mode with 16 routing presets (8 user, 8 factory). Connectivity to a computer is via USB. It includes a programmable footswitch input on the front panel and a universal internal power supply (110-240V).
