MidiStream is primarily intended to be used in a live gig situation where it can free the live performer from the constraints of a MIDI cable. It is ideal for use with a portable keyboard, or for use with electronic wind controllers or indeed an portable MIDI instrument, electronic drums, accordion etc. Another ideal application is to link a front-of-house MIDI sound or lighting desk to on-stage equipment.
MidiStream has been designed specifically to address the problems unique to MIDI data transfer. It combines a high data rate with extremely low latency and low dropout rate. Should dropouts occur due to going out of range or interference from other sources, MidiStream is designed to handle these events without leaving notes stuck on.
The transmitter is a cigarette packet sized unit, with a small aerial, an on-off switch, a MIDI input socket and is powered from a 9 volt battery. The receiver is a free standing diversity unit (two aerials to maximise reception) and is powered from the mains via a small plug-top power supply. It has 4 status LEDs, an on-off switch and a MIDI out socket. The whole system has an extremely low latency of 2mS (the time it takes sound to travel about 2 feet). Range is at least 80 metres (260 feet) outdoors in ideal conditions, or 30 metres indoors.
Operation couldn't be simpler. Just turn everything on, plug your portable instrument into the MIDI IN of the transmitter, and the MIDI appears at the MIDI out socket of the receiver ready to connect to your sound modules, laptop, rack etc.
MidiStream handles ALL MIDI data on ALL MIDI channels, including clock, sysex etc., so whatever MIDI you put into the MIDI In of the transmitter pack, appears at the MIDI Out of the receiver unit. It even warns you of a low battery in the transmitter unit by blinking an LED on both the transmitter and the receiver.
MidiStream is now also available in a version suitable for use in the USA. Note that due to different frequency allocations in the USA, these units have to work on 914.5MHz, which is a different frequency from the UK/EU versions. There is no fundamental difference in the models except for the frequency of operation.
Specifications
Transmitter
- Power: 9 volt battery. PP3 type (also known as 6F22 or MN1604 or S-006P)
- Power consumption: Typically 55mA in normal use or 17mA when power saving
- Battery life: 4 – 5 hours with a full battery.
- Transmit frequency: 914.5 MHz
- MIDI: In only
- LED: Indicates power on, low battery, power save & MIDI activity
- Weight: 285 grams
- Dimensions: 100 x 70 x 30 mm (not including antenna)
- Non-volatile memory: EEPROM (no back-up battery required)
Receiver
- Power Input: 9-12V DC 120mA, 2.1mm plug centre +ve (Mains adaptor supplied)
- Receive frequency: 914.5 MHz
- MIDI: Out only
- Display: Four status LEDs indicate Power on (TX low batt), MIDI, RF-A & RF-B
- Weight: Receiver 850 grams – Power adaptor 300 grams
- Dimensions: 241 x 115 x 32 mm (not including antennas)
- Non-volatile memory: EEPROM (no back-up battery required)
