Start Guide for UxMIDI Tools and HxMIDI Tools Software by CME

Unleash Your MIDI Power

For Use with CME’s USB MIDI Devices

At CME, we believe that MIDI interfaces are all about control, creativity, and precision, and these tools are designed to give you just that. In this guide, we’ll walk you through setting up, configuring, and optimizing your MIDI workflow using UxMIDI and HxMIDI Tools.

Welcome to the online start guide for UxMIDI Tools and HxMIDI Tools—the ultimate software for unleashing the power of CME’s USB MIDI devices, including models like the U2MIDI Pro, U4MIDI WC, U6MIDI Pro, H4MIDI WC and future CME hardware.

Please note that this guide uses images from UxMIDI Tools. The screens in HxMIDI Tools are similar but include additional options for USB host ports. Devices with USB host functionality are designated with the letter “H” in the model name. For models with optional Bluetooth MIDI functionality (indicated by the “WC” extension), screenshots also display BLE MIDI ports for wireless MIDI connectivity.

1. Go Advanced with UxMIDI Tools and HxMIDI Tools

2. Installation: software + firmware
   

3. Preset Management

4. MIDI Filter: Block MIDI messages

   1. Scenario

   2. Setting up your MIDI Filter

5. MIDI Router: Create MIDI Thru, Merge, and More

   1. MIDI Thru

      1. Creating a MIDI Thru box

   2. MIDI Merge

      1. Creating a MIDI Merge box

   3. Customize your MIDI routing scenario

   4. Smart USB MIDI cabling with U2MIDI Pro

6. MIDI Mapper: Transform your controls into expressive tools

   1. Getting started with the MIDI Mapper

   2. Understanding MIDI Mapper

   3. Understanding the Config section

      1. Table 1: Source MIDI messages

      2. Table 2: Value 1 and 2

7. View Full Settings

8. Conclusion

Go Advanced with UxMIDI Tools and HxMIDI Tools

Picture yourself in your home studio, surrounded by your keyboard controller, synthesizer, drum machine, and DAW-equipped computer. With CME's USB MIDI hardware devices and the versatile UxMIDI Tools or HxMIDI Tools, you have the power to unlock a whole new level of creativity.

Your passion is crafting intricate drum patterns, and here's where CME's USB MIDI hardware devices shine. You selectively filter out specific MIDI channels from your keyboard controller, like all channels except channel 10 for your percussion sounds, and send that channel exclusively to your drum machine via your routing matrix.

No more accidental triggers disrupting your flow. The MIDI filter settings act as your creative bouncer, ensuring that only the desired MIDI data gets through.

Besides this CME's USB MIDI hardware devices allow you to customize your controller's modulation wheel and pitch bend to control precise parameters on your synthesizer. This is where your sound truly comes alive, offering you the power to craft unique and expressive musical landscapes.

With your CME USB MIDI hardware devices and UxMIDI Tools or HxMIDI Tools software, your music production studio becomes a realm of limitless possibilities. Your creative vision is magnified with precise control, providing you the tools to craft music that's distinctive, emotive, and uniquely your own.

Installation: software + firmware

Before we dive into the exciting features of UxMIDI Tools and HxMIDI Tools, it's important to set up your system correctly.

Start by downloading the latest version of the UxMIDI Tools or HxMIDI Tools. It's compatible with both macOS and Windows.

After you install the software, launch it and connect your CME USB MIDI hardware device via your operating system's USB port.

If the firmware of your CME USB MIDI hardware device is up-to-date, the default window will open for further configuration. If the firmware is not up-to-date, you will see an update pop-up window.

Always make sure you are using the latest firmware version.

Preset Management

CME USB MIDI hardware, equipped with the latest firmware version and latest UxMIDI Tools or HxMIDI Tools software, offers the ability to set and manage presets. You can customize filters, mappers, and routing, then save these settings using the UxMIDI Tools or HxMIDI Tools, allowing you to recall them directly from the hardware—even when operating in standalone mode.

Note: The U2MIDI Pro does not have a hardware button for switching presets. Instead, presets can be changed through the software or via MIDI messages as explained below.

Connect and Read Settings: 

When a CME USB MIDI device with a custom preset is connected to your computer's USB port and selected in UxMIDI Tools or HxMIDI Tools, the software will automatically read and display all settings and status from the device associated with that preset.

• Click the pencil icon to the right of the preset name to customize the preset name. The preset name length is limited to 16 English and numeric characters.
• Click the [Save] button to save the preset as a computer file.
• Click the [Load] button to load a preset file from the computer to the current preset.

Selecting and Setting Presets:

Before making adjustments, select the preset number in the lower right corner of the software interface. Once a preset is selected, set your desired parameters. All changes will be automatically saved to the chosen preset from this point forward.

Switching Presets:

Presets can be switched using the multi-function button on the device or via assignable MIDI information. When switching presets, the device's LED will flash to indicate the active preset: 1 flash for preset 1, 2 flashes for preset 2, etc.

The Settings page allows you to select and configure your CME USB MIDI device model and port for operation via the software. In the Preset Settings section, you can configure how you control preset switches over MIDI.

Enable Changing Preset from MIDI Messages:

By selecting this option, you can assign Note On, Note Off, Controller, or Program Change MIDI messages to switch presets remotely. This feature provides flexibility and control over your MIDI setup without needing physical access to the device.

Forward Message to MIDI/USB Outputs: 

When this option is selected, the assigned MIDI messages will be forwarded to MIDI and USB outputs, ensuring seamless integration and communication between your MIDI devices.

MIDI Filter: Block MIDI messages

MIDI filtering is the cornerstone of customization. It allows you to shape your MIDI data to meet your unique requirements and reduces unpredictable behavior of your setup.

The MIDI filter of the UxMIDI Tools or HxMIDI Tools software allows you to selectively block specific types of MIDI messages from passing through your MIDI interface. It acts as a gatekeeper, ensuring that only the desired MIDI data is transmitted, which is essential for maintaining precision and reducing unwanted noise in a MIDI setup.

With the latest firmware, you can apply the filter to both the inputs and outputs of your CME USB MIDI hardware device.

Scenario

In practice, MIDI filtering with CME's UxMIDI Tools or HxMIDI Tools offers a multitude of applications. For instance, imagine you're a live performer who wants to use a MIDI foot controller to switch between various guitar effects pedals. With MIDI filtering, you can configure your CME USB MIDI interface to allow only specific MIDI control change (CC) messages, corresponding to each effect pedal, to reach your guitar effects processor.

This means that as you tap a button on your foot controller, only the relevant MIDI messages are sent, seamlessly activating or deactivating your desired effects without any unintentional changes. MIDI filtering is your ticket to precision and control, ensuring your live performance runs seamlessly while avoiding any unwanted surprises.

Setting up your MIDI Filter

1. Launch UxMIDI Tools or HxMIDI Tools and connect your CME USB MIDI hardware device.
2. Access the MIDI Filter section by clicking the tab on the top of the window
3. Select via the dropdown menu to which in- or output you want the filter to apply
4. Specify which MIDI channels should be blocked (filtered out).
   Note: When a MIDI channel is selected, all messages of this MIDI channel will be filtered out.
5. Select which types of MIDI messages you want to block (filter out).
   Note: When certain message types are selected, those messages type will be filtered out in all MIDI channels: Note on, Note off, PC, CC, Sysex, Key pressure, Pitch bend, Channel pressure
6. All settings are automatically stored on your CME USB MIDI hardware device.

This feature is crucial for fine-tuning your MIDI setup to achieve precision and control. With UxMIDI or HxMIDI Tools, you can effortlessly customize your MIDI data, unlocking new possibilities for creative expression and control.

MIDI Router: Create MIDI Thru, Merge, and More

MIDI routing is about intelligently directing MIDI data from one source to another within your musical setup. It is at the core of any MIDI setup, and the UxMIDI Tools or HxMIDI Tools software simplifies the process, making it more intuitive and accessible.

Essentially, MIDI Thru and MIDI Merge are the most basic forms of MIDI routing within your setup. Let's dive a little deeper into how to configure your CME USB MIDI hardware device as a thru, merge, split and even more advanced routing solution.

MIDI Thru

MIDI Thru is a fundamental part of MIDI setups, especially in more extensive music configurations. It essentially duplicates incoming MIDI data from one input and forwards it to one or more outputs.

Consider having a MIDI keyboard and wanting to play multiple synthesizers simultaneously. MIDI Thru comes to the rescue by splitting the MIDI signal from your keyboard, so that each synthesizer receives its own copy. This ensures all your instruments play together without any delay, which can be an issue when connecting them in a daisy-chain.

It's not just for keyboards; you can also use MIDI Thru to split signals or send timing information to different devices, making your complete musical setup operate smoothly. It's a practical tool to maintain synchronization and harmony across your setup.

Creating a MIDI Thru box with your CME USB MIDI hardware device

1. Launch UxMIDI Tools or HxMIDI Tools and connect your CME USB MIDI hardware device
2. Access the MIDI Routing section by clicking the tab on the top of the window
3. Remove all default links between the in- and outputs by selecting the grey input button on the left (it will turn orange) and unchecking the output port on the right
4. Link one single MIDI input port to all the MIDI output ports by selecting the grey input button on the left side and checking all output ports on the right side
5. All settings are automatically stored on your CME USB MIDI hardware device

Note: The USB ports in the UxMIDI Tools software are virtual ports that run through a single USB-C port. The CME USB MIDI hardware device's starting with the letter "U" are not a USB host device. The USB port is only for connecting to operating systems, not for connecting MIDI controllers via USB. For USB host options, you'll need a CME USB MIDI hardware device that starts with the letter “H” and the HxMIDI Tools software

MIDI Merge

While MIDI Thru is excellent for splitting signals, MIDI Merge performs the opposite function by consolidating MIDI data from different devices into a single stream. MIDI Merge simplifies your MIDI setup by uniting data from multiple sources, allowing for enhanced control over your musical equipment.

In both studio and live performance settings, it's common to use an array of MIDI controllers like keyboards, pad controllers, and footswitches. With a MIDI Merge configuration, you can combine the MIDI output from these controllers into a single stream.

This streamlined setup simplifies connections to your synthesizers, samplers, or DAW. This allows you to control various instruments and software with different controllers while maintaining a single MIDI input connection to for instance a sound module.

Creating a MIDI Merge box with your CME USB MIDI hardware device

1. Launch UxMIDI Tools or HxMIDI Tools and connect your CME USB MIDI hardware device
2. Access the MIDI Routing section by clicking the tab on the top of the window
3. Remove all default links between the in- and outputs by selecting the grey input button (it will turn orange) on the left and unchecking the output port on the right
4. Link one single MIDI output port to all the MIDI input ports by selecting the grey input button of each input port on the left side and checking the same output port on the right side
5. All settings are automatically stored on your CME USB MIDI hardware device

Note: The USB ports in the UxMIDI Tools software are virtual ports that run through a single USB-C port. The CME USB MIDI hardware device's starting with the letter "U" are not a USB host device. The USB port is only for connecting to operating systems, not for connecting MIDI controllers via USB. For USB host options, you'll need a CME USB MIDI hardware device that starts with the letter “H” and the HxMIDI Tools software

Customize your MIDI routing scenario with your 

The UxMIDI Tools and HxMIDI Tools software open up a world of possibilities beyond basic MIDI thru or merge functions. Its flexibility allows you to link inputs and outputs according to your unique preferences.

You can seamlessly integrate virtual MIDI ports via USB, or utilize it as a standalone MIDI router, leveraging the 5-pin DIN MIDI ports and using the USB port solely for external power.

Smart USB MIDI cabling with U2MIDI Pro

Imagine you have two MIDI instruments, Instrument 1 and Instrument 2, along with your computer running music software. Your instruments have standard 5-pin DIN MIDI ports and your computer has a USB A port.

With the UxMIDI Tools software you can change the standard routing of the U2MIDI Pro. You can now route MIDI messages from Instrument 1 to both Instrument 2 and your computer using the U2MIDI USB MIDI cable.

What truly sets this system apart is its advanced routing feature and the ability to filter incoming and outgoing MIDI messages, creating a remarkably dynamic MIDI ecosystem tailored to your precise requirements. 

But wait, there's more! 

With the latest software and firmware updates, you can now harness the power of MIDI mapping, adding an extra layer of customization to your MIDI setup.

MIDI Mapper: Transform your controls into expressive tools

MIDI mapping transforms your knobs, buttons, and sliders into expressive tools by assigning specific MIDI messages for controlling various parameters of your software or hardware instruments.

At its core, MIDI mapping empowers you to craft a MIDI ecosystem that responds precisely as you design it, streamlining control and enhancing the efficiency of your musical experience.

Imagine you have a complex live performance setup with various MIDI instruments. You have a MIDI keyboard controller, a pad controller, and a foot pedal controller, each serving different functions. With MIDI mapping, you can customize how each controller interacts with your gear.

For instance, you can map the keys on your MIDI keyboard to trigger different synthesizer presets and use the mod wheel to control filter cutoff. At the same time, you can map the pads on your pad controller to trigger drum samples and use the foot pedal to switch between guitar effect presets on a MIDI guitar processor.

By creating these specific mappings, you can seamlessly transition between different instrument and effect configurations during your performance. This level of customization allows you to focus on your music without getting caught up in manually adjusting settings on each device.

Getting started with the UxMIDI or HxMIDI Tools MIDI Mapper

1. Firmware Update: Ensure that your CME USB MIDI hardware device's firmware is updated to the latest available version.
2. Launch UxMIDI or HxMIDI Tools: Start the latest version of your UxMIDI or HxMIDI Tools software on your computer.
3. Connect CME's USB MIDI hardware device: Connect your CME USB MIDI hardware device to your computer via USB and confirm that it is selected in the UxMIDI Tools and HxMIDI Tools software.

Understanding MIDI Mapper

The MIDI Mapper function allows you to remap the input data of your selected device, enabling customized output based on rules you define.

1. Select your mapper: You have up to 16 independent mappings that you can freely configure to create complex mapping scenarios (Image 1).
2. Input Selection: Select the input port from which you want to map data. Once the input source is configured and "disabled" is no longer checked, the corresponding mapper number will display a green activation indicator (Image 2).
3. Mapping Configuration: In the Config area, you set the source MIDI data (input) and define the new data (output) after mapping.

Understanding the Config section

1. Source MIDI Messages: In the left Message area, select the source MIDI message type to be mapped at the top and the target MIDI message type at the bottom via the dropdown menus.
   Note: See table 1 below
2. Keep original: This option sends both the original MIDI message and the newly mapped message simultaneously.
3. Source MIDI Channel: Select the source MIDI channel and the destination MIDI channel, ranging from 1 to 16.
4. Follow: When this option is selected, the output value is exactly the same as the source value (follow) and is not remapped.
5. Transpose Channel: This option allows you to raise or lower the MIDI channel number. It’s helpful for moving MIDI data to a different channel when needed.
6. Min/Max Values: Define the minimum and maximum channel value range. They can be set to the same value for an exact response to a specific value.
7. Value 1 & Value 2: Depending on the selected [Message] type, these values can be Note #, Control #, Patch #, Bend LSB, Pressure, Velocity, Amount, etc., ranging from 0 to 127. 
   Note: See table 2 below
8. Invert: Reverses the data range. For example, if you’re working with a control range from low to high, it will be flipped to high to low, producing an inverted response.
9. Compress/Expand: When selected, the source value range will be proportionally compressed or expanded to the target value range.
10. Auto-save: All settings are automatically stored on your CME USB MIDI hardware device.
    Note: All conditions must be met to trigger the mapper.

If the conditions of your mapper are not met, the original message is used instead. For example, if you set Velocity from 10 to 100 in the trigger condition and velocity is received at 5, the original message is not remapped and used in its original form.

In other words, all conditions must be met to trigger the mapper. Besides this, when the [Keep original] option is selected, the original MIDI message will be sent at the same time as the mapped MIDI message.

In the above image Value 1 is Note# and Value 2 is Velocity, corresponding with the source message Note On as selected in the message section.

Please note the tables below for all possible data options.

Table 1: Source MIDI messages

Table 2: Value 1 and 2

View Full Settings

The View full settings button opens the general settings window, allowing you to see filter settings, mapping settings, and routing settings for each input port of the connected CME USB MIDI hardware device in one convenient overview.

Conclusion

Whether you're a professional musician or a budding producer, the versatile UxMIDI or HxMIDI Tools software empowers you to harness the full potential of your MIDI interfaces.

From MIDI filtering to intricate routing and expressive mapping, UxMIDI and HxMIDI Tools open up endless possibilities for creative control.

So, if you're searching for an exceptional MIDI solution that offers unparalleled flexibility and performance, CME's UxMIDI or HxMIDI Tools software combined with CME's USB MIDI hardware devices) are your ideal companions on your musical journey.

Unleash your MIDI potential against entry-level pricing. Get ready to elevate your music game to a whole new level.