"The H4MIDI WC redefines standalone MIDI capabilities with its USB host functionality, supporting up to 8 USB MIDI device ports via any standard USB hub. Designed for musicians who need direct control without a computer, it also features:
-Multi-Mode Connectivity: USB-A 1A host port (8-in/8-out virtual MIDI), USB-C client port (4-in/4-out virtual MIDI), MIDI I/O (2-in/2-out), and optional Bluetooth MIDI (1-in/1-out + group connectivity) via WIDI Core.
Advanced MIDI Tools: Configure routing, filtering, mapping with HxMIDI Tools software (Windows, macOS, iOS, Android) and 4 presets switchable via MIDI messages and the external button.
[Amsterdam, 23 January 2025] – CME is excited to announce the launch of the C2MIDI Pro, a revolutionary dual-purpose USB-C MIDI cable that also functions as a standalone MIDI filter, mapper, and router. Designed for musicians, producers, and engineers, the C2MIDI Pro delivers groundbreaking performance and precision, redefining what a MIDI cable can do.
Innovative Features:
Dual-Functionality: Operates as a USB MIDI Interface or a Smart MIDI Cable.
Future-Proof Performance: Powered by a cutting-edge 32-bit processor, it ensures ultra-accurate transmission with high-speed optocouplers and four times the standard processing speed.
Advanced MIDI Tools: Includes free UxMIDI Tools software (compatible with Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android) to configure the C2MIDI Pro as a filter, mapper, or router.
Universal Compatibility: Works seamlessly with macOS, iOS, Windows, Android, Linux, and Chrome OS.
Ultimate Precision: Guarantees 100% exact transfer of dense MIDI data without latency, jitter, or dropouts.
“The C2MIDI Pro combines innovation, precision, and ease of use in a single cable. It’s not just a MIDI cable; it’s a game-changing tool for every MIDI enthusiast,” said Zhao Yitian, CEO of CME.
The C2MIDI Pro is designed to meet the needs of the modern music industry. With its retractable USB-C plug, dual-color MIDI connectors, and seamless integration with any MIDI setup, it empowers users to explore their creativity without limits.
Visit CME CEO Zhao Yitian at Booth #10302 of the MIDI Association.
Availability
The C2MIDI Pro will be open for presale and shipping at the beginning of February 2025. MAP: US$ 29.99
"Controlling the EaganMatrix sound engine with the Warbl wind controller. The Warbl is sending BLE Midi wirelessly to the EaganMatrix engine via the CME WIDI Host.
"I'm pleased to announce the WARBL2, which contains a host of additions and improvements from the original WARBL. Find more details at https://warbl.xyz/
The following iOS MIDI apps were used for the sounds in this video: Celtic Sounds MIDI Module, SoundFonts, and SWAM violin."
"New! I am happy to announce the WARBL2, which is available as of May 2024 and has many new features and improvements while maintaining the original form factor (it is just 5 mm longer). Improvements include: BLE (wireless) MIDI, an inertial measurement unit (IMU: accelerometer and gyroscope), USB-C, an integrated bell sensor, an RGB LED, a faster ARM® Cortex® processor with much greater storage space, a secondary processor dedicated to reading the optical sensors, higher-resolution pressure-sensor readings, lower power consumption, drag-and-drop firmware upgrades, slightly larger toneholes, and the ability to customize fingering charts completely. There is a NiMH battery that supplies at least 10 hours playing time per charge. Complete documentation is available in the WARBL2 User Manual. The WARBL2 is still completely open source. I will also continue to fully support the original WARBL.
What makes WARBL unique?
WARBL is a USB MIDI and BLE MIDI wind controller that allows the traditional musician to practice with headphones or mimic the sound of any instrument using familiar playing techniques. Designed to simulate a variety of open-tonehole wind instruments such as tin whistles, flutes, and bagpipes, WARBL has optical sensors and real toneholes for continuous finger sensing and realistic feel. An air-pressure sensor allows playing with breath or a bagpipe bag."
"Just got a Roland S-1 synthesizer (tiny!), and then maybe a week later got a CME WIDI Jack to go with it. This was the first time hooking them together, along with an Xkey Air. Worked really well, and is a super portable setup. This is just a quick minute video just to show it all working, so not an in-depth exploration.
I already have several Xkey Airs, and have used them with my several CME WIDI Masters. I could definitely see getting two or three more S-1s, WIDI Jacks, and Xkeys. Could fit an entire live setup in a backpack that way.
This is 100% S-1, no external effects where used."
"ESI masters mobile MIDI controller keyboard market, introducing new 2024 models of Xkey 25 and Xkey 37 in close collaboration with Artesia Pro
LEONBERG, GERMANY: working in close collaboration with San Diego, CA, USA-headquartered electronic musical instruments and music production equipment specialist Artesia Pro, professional and semi-professional audio equipment vendor ESI is proud to introduce the new 2024 models of the already acclaimed Xkey 25 and Xkey 37 — famed for creatively combining portable, ultra-thin, rugged, brushed aluminium metal casings with polyphonic aftertouch to create the ultimate mobile MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) controller keyboards capable of going wherever their users’ music might take them — as of July 2…
So what, exactly, is new about the 2024 models of the Xkey 25 and Xkey 37 mobile MIDI controller keyboards, then? They are engineered with an exceptionally stable USB-C connection to ensure seamless, class-compliant interfacing with current PCs, Macs, and mobile devices for starters. Then their full-sized keys offer not only amazing response and velocity sensitivity but also provide polyphonic aftertouch, affording musicians access to unparalleled expressive capabilities. It is also fair to say that their intuitive smart buttons enhance playability, providing instant access to MODULATION and SUSTAIN functions. Furthermore, Xkey 37 boasts an adapter cable for 5-pin MIDI OUT, as well as connections for EXPRESSION and SUSTAIN pedals.
But both Xkey 25 and Xkey 37 include licences for Bitwig’s Bitwig Studio 8-Track — a trim and effective DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) with which to start producing, performing, and designing sounds like a pro — and Steinberg’s WaveLab LE — an easy-to-use mastering and audio editing software to turn computers into an audio analysing, editing, and publishing studio — for PC and Mac, as well as Steinberg’s Cubasis LE — a compact version of the multi- award-winning, professional music studio app, providing the same look and feel of its bigger brother, Cubase — for iOS. In addition, Xkey 25 and Xkey 37 users gain access to robust cross-platform editing software, enabling comprehensive customisation of their MIDI controller keyboard’s parameters, plus ESI’s esteemed multi-client, multi- device MIDI driver for Windows.
“We are very excited that we have been able to work with the feedback from the existing Xkey user community when developing the new models.” So says ESI Audiotechnik CEO Claus Riethmüller, justifiably proud of his company’s latest collaborative achievement — advancing already acclaimed mobile MIDI controller keyboards to master a hotly contested market with new 2024 models made possible by working in close collaboration with Artesia Pro.
The new 2024 models of the Xkey 25 and Xkey 37 MIDI controller keyboards will initially start shipping in Europe — with an MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price) of €149.00 EUR and €249.00 EUR, respectively — in July, followed by a global release about a month later. (Local ESI distributors can be selected by country from here: https://www.esi-audio.com/company/distributors/)
"Remixed on the @teenageengineering EP-133 KO II Sampler with Korg Nanokey Studio Completed in Logic Pro 0:00 Making-of 2:45 Let's Jam 3:16 Full Song
Nigel Tufnel: The numbers all go to eleven. Look, right across the board, eleven, eleven, eleven and... Marty DiBergi: Oh, I see. And most amps go up to ten? Nigel Tufnel: Exactly. Marty DiBergi: Does that mean it's louder? Is it any louder? Nigel Tufnel: Well, it's one louder, isn't it? It's not ten. You see, most blokes, you know, will be playing at ten. You're on ten here, all the way up, all the way up, all the way up, you're on ten on your guitar. Where can you go from there? Where? Marty DiBergi: I don't know. Nigel Tufnel: Nowhere. Exactly. What we do is, if we need that extra push over the cliff, you know what we do? Marty DiBergi: Put it up to eleven. Nigel Tufnel: Eleven. Exactly. One louder. Marty DiBergi: Why don't you just make ten louder and make ten be the top number and make that a little louder? Nigel Tufnel: [pause] These go to eleven."
Wireless MIDI on the EP-133 KO-II?? (NO Computer Needed)
"When I made the popular YouTube series 'FM Catalogue of Materials', many viewers commented that they would love to see some more of the 'music tech as cinema' style created in the videos.
My new project 'Luminous Trilogy' release, does exactly that. In part 1 'WTD', synths and synth technical diagrams, together with Pure Data/Max patches, become casual parts of the film's environment, which is set in an alt near future. Part 1 was realised with analogue modular, whereas Part 2 "Breath" was scored using binaural audio, VCV rack and live Indian tablas. Part 3 'Contrails' uses physical models, Samplicity's Berlin Studios and vintage FM hardware."
Update: Element433 has made the VCV patch and assets used in the film "Breath" below a free download. You can find instructions on downloading the patch and setting it up here: http://tinyurl.com/e433WpBrvcv.
"Three music shorts around the theme of light, from incandescent urban folklore set in the near future, electric neon glowing medussae to impossible skies, all to the sound of dark ambient and techno-world music"
Playlist:
Walking The Dulzaina - Luminous Trilogy - Part 1
Walking The Dulzaina is an edited one-shot music film which details the manic walkthrough time-lapse of an imaginary synthesised dulzaina (Spanish folkloric instrument) being taken for a walk through the "Las Vegas" like dressed streets of a small village festive celebration set somewhere in the near future.
The visuals are nods to the Bladerunner, Lynch, Weirdcore and Kubrick where the glow of transparent neon CRTs, display technical diagrams with a music technology theme. Some suddenly slide up from the ground, while others cross from one side of the street to another.
The music is inspired by minimalism, industrial techno synth-folk where Steve Reich and Techno meet Raymond Scott and 1960's BBC radiophonic.
Musical Equipment Detail:
Intro: Moog Subharmonicon through Fairfield Randy's Revenge ring modular - into two crunchy Elby Systems stereo valve preamps and out into a stereo pair of Doepfer A-199 spring tanks).
Dulzainas: Buchla Easel Command sometimes untreated and sometimes solo through a J.H. 'Son of a Storm Tide' stereo analogue studio flanger (built by Van Daal Electronics (second dulzainas and very low transition whoooses).
Buchla and Subharmonicon sync locked and clock divided by Ornaments and Crime clock divider.
Final wormhole sequence: Subharmonicon through stereo A-199 Doepfer spring reverbs and Paulstretched.
This work is not sponsored by any the manufacturers mentioned. They are personally purchased pieces of equipment.
"There is nothing better than CME's Wireless MIDI devices known as WIDI!
I truly wish I had more of these or a multi channel WIDI setup as these are awesome! I also use a CME WIDI between my AZ-1 Keytar and Kawai SX240 making my Keytar completely cordless, no wires! A truly great product!"
[Singapore, July 5 2023] CME, the people behind WIDI Bluetooth MIDI, is proud to introduce its groundbreaking iWA (Instant Wireless Audio) technology.
This revolutionary solution sets a new standard for wireless audio transmission for musicians, with high immunity to interference and near-zero latency.
CME's iWA is poised to redefine the way musicians think about wireless audio.
iWA: Near-zero latency! iWA technology is designed with musicians in mind. It offers wireless HD audio in stereo. In out latest tests, over-the-air latency is reduced to a staggering 1ms.
This makes iWA indistinguishable from wired solutions in a double-blind test and it will easily outperform any competing technology in its price range.
iWA: No interference! iWA technology is highly immune for interference. It introduces a groundbreaking nano-second pulse transmission technology.
This completely removes the challenges experienced when operating on overcrowded frequencies as used by Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and other solutions.
iWA: Uncompressed HD audio! iWA technology cherishes sound. It uses an extremely wide bandwidth to allow uncompressed transmission of HD audio in stereo.
Software codecs and other compression technologies are no longer needed. With enough space for correction on-the-fly: what goes in, simply goes out!
"As the developers of WIDI, we understand that Bluetooth technology cannot fully meet the needs of all musicians when it comes to transmitting audio." said Zhao Yitian, CEO at CME. "This realisation has inspired us to rise to the challenge and continue to innovate. In the end, we decided to take this risk and work with the community to develop iWA technology from scratch."
CME's IWA wireless audio technology has vast potential across a wide range of applications, including headphones, studio monitors and TX/RX solutions. Initially, the focus is on providing a solution for near-field scenarios where immediate response is required, such as in the studio and during rehearsals.
To learn more about CME's breakthrough IWA wireless audio technology and its transformative impact on the creative process, please visit this page.
About CME: CME is a pioneering technology company committed to pushing boundaries and shaping the future of music making through innovative solutions. With a relentless focus on delivering excellence, CME empowers musicians to embrace tomorrow’s technology and discover new ways to create.
"Following the successful launch of WIDI, the Bluetooth MIDI revelation, CME is introducing a new line of MIDI tools that are affordable yet give an extra edge.
As a contributing board member of the MIDI Association, the CME team is part of the latest developments in MIDI, including MPE, MIDI 2.0 and BLE MIDI.
With more than 30 years of professional experience, the new range is designed to operate without data errors, without signal loss and without dropouts.
Combining the best of both worlds with the latest components, they will appeal to all music makers. And at today's price point, they are accessible to all.
Finally, you can break down the barriers between smart devices and traditional MIDI hardware. Discover exciting new ways to work through a unique combination of high-precision wired and ultra-low latency wireless.
Pictured here is a mini setup I have sitting to my left pretty much at all times. As you can imagine I spend quite a bit of time running this site. When I'm too tired and/or can't get into the studio, I'll often fiddle with this setup. I swap out synths depending on what I'm in the mood for. Currently you'll see a Sequential OB-6 desktop, Audiothingies Micromonsta, Strymon Big Sky, and Elektron Digitakt all running through a Rolls line mixer which runs out to an iConnectAudio4 MIDI and audio interface which I currently only use for capturing audio on the laptop. Normally I have my laptop sitting where the Keystep, and further below, the MicroKorg are. The Keystep is my main controller, but I brought up the MicroKorg to test it out with the CME Widi Master for complete wireless control. I have the Keystep and/or MicroKorg leaning up on the side of my makeshift table and I just bring them up on my lap when I want to use them. One thing I hate dealing with is plugging in the MIDI and power cables. Yes I am that lazy, especially after a long bout of posting. You might ask why not leave them plugged in. Well, the cables kind of get in the way of a small storage box I have under the setup. That said, I've been eyeing CME's wireless adapters for some time. When they announced the WIDI Thru6 BT, I thought I'd reach out to them for a review unit as I am a little tight on expendable funds at the moment. Fortunately they agreed to send me the WIDI Thru6 BT and a WIDI Master. You can see the Widi Master plugged into the back of the Keystep and the MicroKorg below. You can see the WIDI Thru6 BT sitting to the side of the OB-6, but in use I just have it resting on the floor to my right and behind me. I was curious if the wireless connection would work with the WIDI Master both pointing directly away from the Thru6 and having my armchair in between. I'm happy to report there were no problems at all. Nada. It just works. I was also curious if I'd have to pair the two every time I powered things on, or after a period of no use. I'm happy to report I didn't have to. I fired them up days later and they just worked. I can now just flip a switch to turn everything on and I'm good to go.
There is one quirky thing I do want to mention. When you first set up the WIDI Thru6 BT and CME Widi Master you might have to update the firmware on each depending on when they left the factory and when the latest firmware update was released. In my case I did have to update both. The quirky thing is after you update either, you have to go into your Bluetooth settings (iPhone Settings for me), click on the WIDI device in the list and select "forget the device", then restart Bluetooth altogether and re-add the device. Basically after the firmware update it's as if the device is seen as a new separate device in Bluetooth settings but will not show up as long as the previous device is still on the list. So, firmware update = new device. If you try to connect the original device it will fail. You can find addtional setup and configuration details on their website here.
That said, once it's all setup and good to go, it's a great little system. The connection is stable and I do not notice any latency at all. I tried maxing out the built-in sequencer and ARP of the Keystep to see if I could overload the connection and it was rock solid.
Anything that can reduce cabling and improve ease of use, especially after a long day of work, is a plus in my book.
You can find additional details on the CME WIDI Thru6 BT, WIDI Master, and additional CME devices on their website at https://www.cme-pro.com.
PS. Apologies for the quality of the pics. The lighting isn't the greatest but that's how I like it. :)
"WIDI Thru6 BT is the world's first MIDI Thru box that combines wired and wireless MIDI from a single box.
Discover exciting new ways to work through a unique combination of high-precision wired and ultra-low latency wireless. Connect up to 10 MIDI devices simultaneously.
Simply plug in any MIDI devices with standard MIDI I/O via MIDI cables. Go wireless with ultra-low 3ms latency advanced wireless MIDI as developed by CME.
"The keyboard on the Prophet 10 generates channel (monophonic) aftertouch, but the Prophet can also receive polyphonic aftertouch from an external source. This is what the video is about.
Reading the comments included in the video helps understanding of what’s going on."
"This is a crowd creation project.
With 3,000 active registrants SWIDI becomes a reality.
Register now to get 50% discount during presale.
Target retail price is US$ 79
Sign up today. Become part of the process."
Wireless charging as well. The keyboard will MSRP at $€79 on May 2. Curious if a wireless charge will be included. I'm not finding one on the CEM site.
Echoing the feel and look of the Xkey Air, the brand new SWIDI will make you rethink Bluetooth MIDI.
SWIDI is a progressive music tool that combines the functionalities of your keyboard controller with a step sequencer like no other.
With SWIDI you can control analog and digital devices. Completely wireless. It is the end of MIDI cables and power cords.
It's your 100% true portable solution that's fully compatible with any Bluetooth MIDI solution, including WIDI.
The key to absolute control
SWIDI gives you full control over any synthesizer or virtual instrument in your DAW via Bluetooth MIDI.
With an unparalleled 64-step sequencer, with an 8-note polyphonic sequence and 32 slim keys, SWIDI takes MIDI to new heights.
Its integrated WIDI technology links SWIDI as a central controller with up to four (4) peripherals. Without wires. With and completely without computers.
Finally, you can create 1-to-4 MIDI configurations over air. Enjoy freedom on stage and in the studio with its unique wireless charging pad.
Premium Bluetooth MIDI
SWIDI is based on Xkey technology combined with the latest version of WIDI. Access uniform communication between any device of any brand with the most advanced wireless MIDI technology currently available.
Ultra low 3ms latency between WIDI equipped devices 65ft / 20m plain sight range between WIDI equipped devices Add up to five (5) Bluetooth MIDI devices with group auto-learn Optimise for latency or jitter performance via WIDI App (iOS/Android)
The finishing touch....
WIDI is a 100% community-driven technology, validated by thousands of MIDI enthusiasts around the world. Simply power & play at any fixed location with its unique charging station. Fully charge your SWIDI in two (2) hours and enjoy eight (8) hours of pure freedom.
Wireless MIDI. Wireless charging. No redundant ports. No component shortage. Available May 2, 2022 Retail $€ 79"
"Exploring the softer side of the OB-6, this time with the CME XKey 37 for polyphonic aftertouch. Most of the reverb is coming from the Alesis vintage rack stack: MV II Preset 28 (XLarge Warm 5s), MVII Preset 29 (XLarge Warm 15s), QV Preset 75 (Taj Mahal). The Audiothingies Doctor A adds some modulated delay and a small touch of concert hall reverb. The polyphonic aftertouch on the CME XKey is very difficult to control, and I've got the sensitivity turned all the way down. The cool thing is that any chords played on the XKey will have a natural chorus effect, as it's impossible to play all the notes with the same amount of downward pressure. Flaws (and lack of ability) aside, the results with the XKey can be stunning, so I'm keeping it for now."
"This is not exactly a synth demo, but rather a demo of how to connect a "standard" sustain pedal to a laptop or iPad. Not too difficult a task but it took a little research to find a good pedal-to-USB adapter. I'm using the Beat Bars FS2M adapter, which I'm very happy with. 1/4" TRS jack on one end, micro USB on the other. Can take pretty much any one- or two-switch pedal and send it right to your computer. I mean, not that big a deal but didn't realize how much I missed having a pedal when using piano apps, for example. And yes, some MIDI keyboards have a pedal jack input, but with today's super-thin portable bluetooth MIDI keyboards that's perhaps starting to become a thing of the past.
"WIDI Master uses MIDI DIN-5 in and out ports, powered by the out port
When plugged in to MIDI out it starts in Master Mode to pair with any nearby
MIDI controller without a computer (DAWless). If no master is found in few moments it goes into normal mode like other mfg's BT dongles (Yamaha etc.).
Following the WIDI demo is my first Roland MC-101 demo, right out of the box. What a great little unit. The WIDI allowed me to use my CME XKey Air 25 to add expression (velocity/aftertouch) the the MC-101 (the pads don’t send either).
With the MC-101 0n batteries as well as the XKey, it’s a great wireless MIDI, portable studio. You can add samples to the SD card from iPhones now (with a simple card adapter) so a computer is not needed, only for Roland Cloud patches :-)"
"Inspired by feedback received from my last video [posted here], I wanted to do some more Blade Runnery things with the same foundation as last time: Sequential OB-6 GeoSynths 016 preset with internal FX turned off, Alesis MIDIVerb II preset 29 "XLarge Warm 15 sec.", and the CME XKey 37 for poly aftertouch. Someone brought up the vintage knob and of course I totally forgot about that until after I recorded the last vid. This time I dialed it up to somewhere between 10 and 11 o'clock. Another person suggested maybe using an Alesis Quadraverb or Wedge to get that modulated swirl reverb going, a characteristic of the Lexicon 224 sound used in the original Blade Runner soundtrack. I don't have either of those, but I do have another unit that's capable of modulated reverb for days, the Source Audio Ventris Dual Reverb. I thought it would be fun to put that at the end of the chain, after the MIDIVerb II. I set it to E-Dome, mod depth pretty high, and the mod speed very slow. In the video, you can see the light on the Ventris glowing, that indicates its internal LFO speed used for modulation. In order to have any sort of clarity, I had to dial the mix on the MIDIVerb II back to about 50/50 dry/wet, which is less than I would like for this type of sound.
After the main tune, I play a small rendition with varying degrees of effects so you can get a better idea of what each "layer" sounds like: OB-6 completely dry, OB-6 with MIDIVerb II only, OB-6 with Ventris only, and just for fun, the OB-6 with its own internal FX (closer to the sound of the original 016 GeoSynths preset)
Something happened when I patched this up and I might have a bad cable running to the MIDIVerb II from my patchbay. The signal coming into the MVII is a bit weak on one of the channels. The unit still emits a stereo signal filled with spacious reverb, but it's as if there's an extended pre-delay happening on one side. After a while there's so much reverb built up that you don't really notice. I didn't notice it when playing, but I definitely did when setting up the little demo of each FX layer afterwards. Unfortunately, I did not capture the dry output of the synth, so there was no way to go back and fix it.
Once again there is no post processing. You're only hearing the synth running through the two reverb units. That's it."
