July 21

WIDI: Which Device Will You Connect?

42  comments

What is your WIDI use case?

There are thousands of MIDI-enabled products on the market. Both new and second-hand. It can times be a challenge for you to choose the right WIDI device.

To get started, you will need to understand that if you want to use Bluetooth MIDI it either has to be installed in your device or added via WIDI. In other words, if you want to link two traditional MIDI instruments, you will need to add WIDI Bluetooth MIDI to both devices.

In some cases, Bluetooth MIDI is already integrated into your device. This is the case with Bluetooth MIDI controllers like the Xkey Air and operating systems like macOS and iOS. In those cases, adding a WIDI device is not mandatory, you can connect WIDI with the built-in Bluetooth of that operating system.

The above already gives a lot of information. That is why this blog will take you by the hand to make the right decision....

How many WIDI devices do you need?

Pairing with operating systems

You only need 1x WIDI device to pair with Bluetooth MIDI devices such as mobile devices, computers and Bluetooth MIDI controllers.

WIDI technology is compatible with iOS, macOS, Windows 10/11 and Android. Therefore, you should be able to pair relatively easily with the built-in Bluetooth of these operating systems.

For instance, you will only need 1x WIDI Master to pair your device with iOS or MacOS. The advantage of Apple operating systems is that it integrated Bluetooth MIDI as a standard.

Still, every operating system is different and all your music apps are quite different. Note that not all software that offers MIDI is compatible with Bluetooth MIDI.

WIDI, for example, is fully compatible with Windows' latest UWP API. It supports that native. For various reasons, many software developers have not implemented UWP technology and consistently refer to the old drivers.

Therefore, in case your software is not compatible with Bluetooth MIDI, there are free "bridge apps" to install to make your control and connection via WIDI to your liking.

Always read the quick start guide and follow the exact instructions to get it working in no time.

Pairing two pieces of MIDI hardware

You need two (2) WIDI devices to link two pieces of MIDI hardware. That is because you have to add Bluetooth MIDI to both devices. This allows you to link instrument to instrument, like a virtual MIDI cable, without the need of a host like your computer or mobile device.

Connecting two WIDI devices is super simple. You just plug them in, and they are automatically paired together. After this automatic connection, one of them turns turquoise and the other dark blue. This indicates the different roles your WIDI devices automatically assume.

When working in simple mode, none of this matters. It's just plug, pair & play for the most convenient experience.

Connecting multiple pairs or groups

You can create groups of up to five (5) WIDI devices. This allows you to create wireless merges and splits via easily configurable 1-on-4 and 4-on-1 setups via the WIDI App.

Before getting started with this advanced mode, it is highly recommended to fully understand the above simple modes with 1 or 2 WIDI devices.

This will prevent a lot of frustration. Basically, you will first discover how to take advantage of WIDI technology. Based on that experience, you can expand.

WIDI groups are often used to create multiple fixed pairs that automatically connect to each other when you configure it and to create advanced setups between multiple MIDI devices.

If you are interested in this side of WIDI technology, this blog may interest you.

WIDI in short

On the adapter side of WIDI, there are basically four (4) different solutions. On the one hand, you have traditional MIDI I/O and on the other, you have USB MIDI.

Without getting too technical, MIDI I/O deals with traditional MIDI via 5-pin DIN (DIN-5) and TRS MIDI ports. USB MIDI, distinguishes USB MIDI devices (like your MIDI controller) and USB MIDI hosts (like your computer and mobile device).

For all these different options, there is a WIDI solution.

WIDI Master vs WIDI Jack

As a rule of thumb, you can say that WIDI Master works on any 5-pin DIN port that follows the MIDI standard specification and provides phantom power through the MIDI Out port. If you're not sure if your device provides that, you can check the open source compatibility list or buy WIDI Jack + DIN-5 cables.

WIDI Jack has an external power supply option via USB-C. Therefore, it will work for devices with only MIDI In and unpowered Out/Thru ports. Moreover, you can swap the cables and reverse the polarity of Type A and Type B to ensure compatibility with many TRS MIDI solutions.

WIDI Uhost vs WIDI Bud Pro

Basically, WIDI Uhost is the most advanced solution for USB MIDI. It can act as a USB host for class-compliant USB MIDI devices (USB MIDI controllers) and it will also work as a client with your operating system as host. In other words, it can work as a Bluetooth MIDI dongle for your computer or mobile device.

That's where WIDI Uhost overlaps with WIDI Bud Pro. Both act as a dongle for your operating systems. Basically, WIDI Bud Pro (or WIDI Uhost) allows you to add Bluetooth MIDI to any operating system.

Also, WIDI Bud Pro (or WIDI Uhost) are often used to bypass your operating system's built-in Bluetooth. That's because WIDI-to-WIDI outperforms WIDI-to-3rd party-Bluetooth.

WIDI devices are made for MIDI, based on 30 years of experience. And as board members of the International MIDI Association, our engineers know a thing or two about MIDI and the importance of its standards.

That's why WIDI outperforms any other Bluetooth MIDI technology. Even on the most expensive Apple products.....

WIDI Buyer's Guide

To make your decision process more convenient, check out this simplified buyer's guide. It will help you to select the right WIDI solution for your MIDI device. If this does not answer your question, feel welcome to read the remaining part of this blog and reach out to our support.

WIDI Master

Our first WIDI family member is WIDI Master. It is your 5-PIN MIDI DIN Bluetooth MIDI adapter. WIDI Master will need power from the MIDI device you connect it with. The standard MIDI OUT or THRU port delivers 3.3v or 5v through the 5-pin DIN MIDI socket. It is a standard as as suggested by the international MIDI Manufacturers Association.

On our support page, you can find an open source compatibility list. On this list, people from the Community of MIDI Enthusiasts, add devices that they have tested and confirmed to work with WIDI Master.

Before you get started, always check out the quick start guide. You will learn here how to upgrade to the latest firmware and how to utilise MIDIMTTR as a great tool for iOS and Bluetooth MIDI.

For Windows 10/11 (PC) it is different. If you have Win10 v1909 or higher, you can work with Bluetooth MIDI. As mentioned before WIDI technology is fully compatible with the native UWP API drivers for Windows 10/11.

That said, Bluetooth MIDI is not integrated as a standard in every music software application. The question if Bluetooth MIDI works for your setup, completely depends on the software you use. You need to be able to set Bluetooth MIDI in that software.

For Steinberg and Bandlab software the Bluetooth MIDI function is natively available. For other applications there are baiscally two solutions.

To bypass this limitation of the Windows ecosystem, WIDI has been made compatible with Korg's BLE MIDI driver as a software solution. Furthermore, you can consider WIDI Uhost and WIDI Bud Pro as the hardware solution to bypass the onboard Bluetooth of your operating system entirely for optimal performance.

Basically, if your product has a 5-PIN DIN MIDI OUT that follows the standard as set by the MIDI Association, your MIDI OUT will deliver power to WIDI Master and it will work. You can simply check your device and see what kind of MIDI port it has.

WIDI Master

Ensure your MIDI OUT delivers 3.3v or 5v!

WIDI Jack

WIDI Jack offers an external power option via USB-C. Remember? Some devices do not deliver power on MIDI OUT and do not follow the MMA standard. Others only have MIDI IN. That is why we came up with WIDI Jack, it allows you to add WIDI to any device with 5-PIN DIN MIDI ports. 

Basically WIDI Jack is the same device as WIDI Master. Only it offers all connectivity solutions that WIDI Master did not, including a physical Type A and Type B switch to cover a wide variety of TRS MIDI devices.

  • MIDI devices with TRS MIDI (2.5mm-3.5mm-6.35mm / Type A+B)
  • MIDI devices with only MIDI IN like Korg Volca Series
  • MIDI devices with DIN-6 mini MIDI like Yamaha Reface Series
  • MIDI devices with unpowered 5-PIN DIN MIDI
  • MIDI devices with powered 5-PIN DIN MIDI (= WIDI Master)

WIDI Jack: Connect MIDI devices with both powered and unpowered 5-PIN DIN MIDI

WIDI Jack: Connect MIDI devices with TRS MIDI (2.5mm or 3.5mm (1/8") and Type-A/Type-B)

WIDI Jack: Connect MIDI devices with only MIDI IN like Korg Volca Series

Add Bluetooth MIDI to more MIDI devices

WIDI Jack is designed to ensure the functionality of WIDI Master plus additional use cases. The main difference is that it allows an external power source and the ability to change the connection cable. This way you can use WIDI Jack with almost any MIDI device.

Recently, upon request, the WIDI Jack + TRS 6.35mm (1/4") has been added. Today there are 5 different cable options available in a bundle with WIDI Jack or as separate accessory cable add-ons. Just visit the dedicated WIDI Jack page to see the different options available.

WIDI Jack BLE MIDI

WIDI Jack will work with any 5-PIN DIN MIDI port through external power supply option via USB-C port

WIDI Jack wireless MIDI

WIDI Jack works with TRS 2.5mm (3/32"), 3.5mm (1/8") and TRS 6.35mm (1/4"). Plus it can switch between Type A and Type B TRS.

WIDI Jack Yamaha Reface

Yamaha Reface Series with single 6-PIN MIDI DIN terminal works with WIDI Jack as well.

WIDI Uhost Use Cases

WIDI Uhost is designed to be the wireless MIDI USB host for your class compliant USB MIDI device. Besides this, it is a MIDI USB dongle for any PC, tablet or smartphone. As Bluetooth MIDI is not always integrated in your operating system, with WIDI Uhost you can simply add Bluetooth MIDI to your setup.

Basically WIDI Uhost offers all wireless MIDI solutions for class compliant USB MIDI devices.

  • Solution 1: Connect MIDI devices that operate only as USB client
    Plug WIDI Uhost in your class compliant USB MIDI device and transmit MIDI over Bluetooth between your MIDI hardware and BLE MIDI devices.
  • Solution 2: Connect MIDI devices that operate as USB host
    Plug WIDI Uhost in the USB host of your MIDI instrument and add advanced Bluetooth MIDI to your MIDI hardware.
  • Solution 3: Connect computer and smart device without Bluetooth MIDI
    Plug WIDI Uhost in the USB port of your computer and ensure ultra low latency Bluetooth MIDI without having to upgrade your PC, tablet or smartphone and even bypass the Bluetooth MIDI limitations of iOS/MacOs.

WIDI Uhost Cable Packs

As there are many different USB ports, it is impossible to satisfy and offer all different cables. This would simply not be cost-efficient. Therefore it was chosen to offer you the most common solutions in two different cable packs.

For connecting any USB MIDI device with WIDI Uhost get one of the cable packs or buy your own cable to USB-c (Uhost) locally!

You can always get yourself affordable local USB cables that have one USB-c connector to attach to your WIDI Uhost. From our shop you can order the following two packs

  • WIDI Accessory USB-B OTG WIDI cable pack
    This is an accessory for WIDI Uhost containing 2 cables that are most commonly used for standard MIDI controllers:
    1x USB B 2.0 OTG to USB-C cable
    1x USB A 2.0 to USB-C cable
  • WIDI Accessory USB micro-B OTG WIDI cable pack
    This is an accessory for WIDI Uhost containing 2 cables that are most commonly used for slim sized and portable MIDI controllers:
    1x USB micro-B 2.0 OTG to USB-C cable
    1x USB A 2.0 to USB-C cable
WIDI Uhost Cable Pack

WIDI Uhost + MIDI USB B device

WIDI Uhost Cable Pack

WIDI Uhost + micro-B USB device

Bypass the limitations of your computers and mobile devices with WIDI Uhost

Operating systems (MacOS, ChromeOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, Android) and the way music software applications (DAW, apps, plugins) are build can influence your latency performance heavily.

Because the dedicated WIDI firmware is directly embedded in all WIDI products, you can bypass (the limitations of) your computer's operating system (OS). And benefit from fast and reliable wireless MIDI connectivity.

With WIDI Uhost you can benefit from automatic pairing and ultra low (3ms) latency performance via Bluetooth. That is we call WIDI Uhost the Turbo BLE Dongle. It simply boosts BLE MIDI performance of any operating system.

As you might know the alternative to this specific use case of WIDI Uhost is the WIDI Bud Pro. WIDI Bud Pro is the successor of the legacy WIDI Bud (2016) and is fully dedicated to perform as a USB A Bluetooth MIDI dongle that offers all solutions of today's WIDI technology.

Furthermore, it allows you to add Bluetooth MIDI to any class compliant USB MIDI device. With its secondary USB-C port, you can also utilise an external power source and work with MIDI instruments that only offer MIDI over USB and are powered by this USB port.

WIDI Uhost

WIDI Uhost: Connect MIDI devices with only USB client role

USB MIDI wireless

WIDI Uhost: Connect MIDI devices with USB host role

USB MIDI over Bluetooth

WIDI Uhost: Connect computer and smart device without Bluetooth MIDI

WIDI Uhost Power Supply

WIDI Uhost offers some amazing solutions when it comes to power sourcing. That is the magic of making an all-in-one solution. Basically, WIDI Uhost offers three ways of operation when it comes to power supply:

  • WIDI Uhost can be powered all kinds of standard USB power sources: USB bus power, USB power supply, USB power bank, etc.
  • If your MIDI device has a USB host connector (USB-A slot), it can also power WIDI Uhost. 
  • MIDI device which only have a USB client connector (peripheral, USB-B or micro-B slot), will require power from Uhost via its USB-c port.
  • The external power option will power WIDI Uhost. Plus WIDI Uhost can pass 500mA to power your (bus powered) MIDI device which is connected to WIDI Uhost.

In other words, with the right cable(s) and these smart development solutions, WIDI Uhost is the 3-in-1 wireless solution for all USB MIDI devices. Including computers, mobile devices, USB MIDI controllers and USB MIDI hardware.

Adding WIDI Uhost to the equation will allow high performance Bluetooth MIDI. With and without computers. Besides this, you can enjoy the upcoming developments of advanced wireless MIDI that already have started with group connectivity. Therewith WIDI as a BLE MIDI technology is your premium Bluetooth MIDI solution.

WIDI Uhost compatibility 

When using WIDI Uhost as a USB host, it supports most plug-and-play ”class compliant" standard USB MIDI client devices. It is important to understand that USB client devices that need special drivers are not compatible with WIDI Uhost. If your USB MIDI device falls into the following conditions, it is not compatible with WIDI Uhost:

  • USB devices that require the installation of special drivers are not supported.
  • USB devices that include USB hub function are only supported in the USB client device role (not as a host)
  • USB devices with multiple (virtual) MIDI ports will only function on the 1st USB MIDI port.
  • "Combined Device Class" USB port (Audio + MIDI via 1 single USB port) needs WIDI USB firmware v1.6 or higher!
  • To allow WIID Uhost to function as a USB host, you will need USB OTG cables between your MIDI controller and the WIDI Uhost.

Generally speaking WIDI Uhost is specifically developed to add Bluetooth MIDI to standard USB MIDI devices. It works as a one-on-one solution, adding Bluetooth MIDI to that specific USB MIDI device. Therewith it can add 16 MIDI channels to one USB MIDI device.

WIDI Bud Pro

Back in 2016 the WIDI Bud was released. It was the first central Bluetooth MIDI dongle available on the market. 

As WIDI Uhost offers all wireless solutions for any USB MIDI device, the new WIDI Bud Pro is mainly developed to act as a Bluetooth MIDI super dongle for computers and smart devices (USB hosts).

It is the most simple, yet effective solution to add wireless MIDI via Bluetooth to any operating system. It works like a charm. Simply put it in your standard USB-A terminal on your laptop, computer or other operating system and you add Bluetooth MIDI to your setup.

You can plug, pair & play instantly and without any hassle. The best thing is it is compatible with all standard BLE MIDI devices and WIDI devices and will work with any operating system including macOS, iOS, Windows, ChromeOS, Linux and Android.

If your MIDI device has USB Host connector (USB-A slot), like your Korg Kronos, it can also work with WIDI Bud Pro to add that BLE MIDI layer to your USB host.

WIDI Bud Pro vs WIDI Uhost

All those different types of MIDI terminals and associated protocols can be really overwhelming for you. That is why Bluetooth MIDI is in essence the solution for this. That is because when adding Bluetooth MIDI to any MIDI device, you no longer have to think about terminals and connection types.

That said, you still have to consider which WIDI device suits your setup. To simplify this, you can consider that WIDI Master and WIDI Jack are basically the same products. The only difference is the switchable cables and the external power for WIDI Jack. 

The same goes for WIDI Uhost and WIDI Bud Pro. The optional power via USB-c and the switchable cables on the WIDI Uhost make it the premium solution for every USB MIDI use case. This includes bus-powered USB MIDI controllers.

To make the decision making process more easy for you, please note the comparison between both devices underneath. The comparison is limited to emphasize the difference. If you are interested in the entire specification please visit either the WIDI Bud Pro or the WIDI Uhost product pages.

WIDI Bud Pro
WIDI Uhost

USB A fixed only for USB host

USB-C via cable switchable for USB host and USB device

USB host to BLE MIDI only

USB host + USB client device to BLE MIDI

USB bus power only

Extra external power option via USB-c

Connect computers or MIDI products with USB Host function (Example: Korg Kronos)

Connect all class compliant USB MIDI products. Operates with and without computer.

Latency as low as 3ms with 20m (65 ft) reach without obstacles

Latency as low as 3ms with 20m (65 ft) reach without obstacles

Point to point connectivity + 1-to-4 / 4-to-1 WIDI groups 

Point to point connectivity + 1-to-4 / 4-to-1 WIDI groups

WIDI Bud Pro (2021) vs Legacy WIDI Bud (2016)

Of course, when announcing an successor, you would like to know why it is necessary to upgrade. Well, that answer is totally up to you. The main difference is the form factor. In return you get better performance, wider reach and group features. Take a look at the overview below.

WIDI Bud Pro

WIID Bud Pro (2021)

CME WIDI Bud

Legacy WIDI Bud (2016)

BLE 5

BLE 4

Central/Peripheral Auto Role

Central Only

20m (65ft) range without obstacles

10m range without obstacles

point to point

point to point

1-to-4 / 4-to-1  WIDI Groups & Group Auto-Learn

N/A

Professional Latency Performance (as low as 3ms) and Jitter Optimisation

Minimised Latency Performance

Improved User-Friendly WIDI App

Legacy WIDI Plus application

Evolving Wireless MIDI technology!

WIDI is in essence a point-to-point solution. It is like a virtual MIDI cable allowing you to connect one device directly with one other. The new firmware (Dec, 2020) will allow up to 5 Bluetooth MIDI devices in a group. This is what we call the smart hub functionality. It makes 1-to-4 bi-directional connectivity via Bluetooth MIDI possible. 

You can simply set these groups - and recall those settings at any moment - with the user-friendly app. Furthermore, it you will be able to set names to your WIDI devices and easily manage your wireless MIDI setup in a virtual environment. Interested in WIDI groups and the Group Auto-Learn feature? Learn more!

Also, the latest app update (December, 2020) will allow you to personalise your settings and optimise performance for lowest latency (keys, chords, MPE), jitter (real time, sequencing) and ultra low power mode (battery powered devices like MIDI wind instruments).

Technical Specification

WIDI Master
(DIN-5 MIDI)

WIDI Jack
(DIN/TRS MIDI)

WIDI Uhost
(USB MIDI)

WIDI Bud Pro
(USB MIDI)

Bluetooth 5

Each WIDI device implements high-performance Bluetooth Low Energy 5 (BLE 5) with twice the speed, four times the range and Adaptive Frequency Hopping technology for minimal interference, secure connectivity and optimal wireless performance.

Latency

As low as 3ms between 2 WIDI devices

Range

20m/65ft without obstacles

Power

Only via MIDI power. No external power option.

Via MIDI power or external via USB-C port

Via USB bus power or external via USB-C port

Only via USB bus power. No external power option.

WIDI App

Available for free for iOS and Android via AppStore & Google Play

WIDI Groups

Configure WIDI groups easily via WIDI app or with group auto-learn. Create fixed pairs and 1-to-4 MIDI Split/Thru or 4-to-1 MIDI Merge with one (1) central WIDI device and up to four (4) peripherals consisting of WIDI or standard Bluetooth MIDI devices over 16 MIDI channels. Run multiple groups at once with automatic pairing from default memory.

Automatic Pairing

Between WIDI devices and with standard BLE MIDI controllers.

Compatible OS via Bluetooth (Manual paring)

With iOS, macOS and Android via integrated BLE MIDI. With Windows 10 via Korg BLE MIDI drivers.

Compatible OS via USB

N/A

N/A

macOS, iOS, Windows, Android, Linux, ChromeOS

macOS, iOS, Windows, Android, Linux, ChromeOS

Special

Work with all MIDI devices with 3.3v or 5v MIDI Power via 5-PIN MIDI OUT ports. Does not work with devices with only MIDI IN or unpowered MIDI Out. Check the instruction manual of your device.

Accessory cables available for TRS MIDI and DIN MIDI ports. Also works with devices with only MIDI IN or unpowered MIDI ports via external USB-C power.

Operates as USB host with USB OTG cables, supports all class compliant USB MIDI devices, and 1st USB MIDI port for MIDI devices with multiple (virtual) MIDI ports. Smart power split for bus powered USB client devices. Operates as USB client device with computer and USB hubs.

Adds premium Bluetooth MIDI to all operating systems, including Linux and ChromeOS. Bypass wireless MIDI limitations of iOS/macOS. Enjoy auto-pairing and group auto-learn for WIDI and Bluetooth MIDI controllers with optimal latency and jitter performance.

Accessory Cables

Not needed

Yes. Sold separately. DIN-5, DIN-6 mini, TRS 2.5, 3.5 (1/8") and 6.35 (1/4")

Yes. Sold separately for USB B and micro-B.

Not needed

WIDI Products

Advanced Mode: WIDI Groups

With the latest firmware (v0098 and up) you can create groups of max. 5 WIDI devices. In essence this means you can now replace your MIDI Thru and Merge boxes. Thus maybe even your MIDI interface. By bypassing those middle men, you can optimise performance of your MIDI setups ánd go completely wireless.

When pairing 2 WIDI devices, this is done fully automatically. You do not need to worry about a thing. The WIDI devices pair and automatically switch between the central and peripheral role. This is Bluetooth wording for the things we used to know in the world of MIDI as master and slave. Also, they transmit MIDI messages bi-directionally. You simply power up your WIDI devices, and the rest is fully automated.

When connecting with another BLE MIDI device. Like you computer or iOS device. The architecture of those devices force manual pairing upon you. This is a limitation that is part of their infrastructure. To bypass those limitations and benefit from low latency, automatic pairing and group connectivity, you solution will be WIDI Uhost.

When you go into more complex setups with wireless group connectivity, you need to educate yourself to fully benefit from these features. For instance, your group always has 1 central. Besides this you can add up to 4 peripherals. This means you need to manually force the role of your WIDI devices first. Next you create the group in the user-friendly app and save that. When you reboot your devices, all settings are loaded by default.

As communication is duplex, you actually create a MIDI Thru or MIDI Merge functionality. With duplex we mean that communication is bi-directional. You can talk in two ways between your devices. This is equal to adding two cables between 2 MIDI devices.

In short. this means that with this firmware (v0098 and up), you can bypass MIDI interfaces, MIDI merge boxes and MIDI Thru boxes. You now can create the following wirelessly:

  • 1-to-4 MIDI Thru - Group of max. 5 WIDI devices
  • 4-to-1 MIDI Merge - Group of max. 5 WIDI devices

And yes, you can run multiple groups at the same time. Imagine where this can take you. Advanced virtual cable management via a user-friendly app....

As per January 2022 you can add other standard Bluetooth MIDI devices to WIDI groups via WIDI App. Learn more!

WIDI: Wireless MIDI for all MIDI devices

WIDI distinguishes itself from any other Bluetooth MIDI technology available through its unique SCA technology. SCA is a collection of highly effective algorithms that optimise the performance of WIDI in any given situation. 

We have tested and selected the most advanced Bluetooth module with optimized antenna design to deliver reliable connectivity. Together with Bluetooth 5's unique adaptive frequency hopping, WIDI delivers the most reliable and secure connection over Bluetooth currently available.

WIDI offers Bluetooth MIDI adapters and interfaces for any MIDI setup, device and instrument. Besides this, at the end of 2022 WIDI Thru6 BT was introduced. The perfect cross-over between wired and wireless...

WIDI: Connect MIDI instrument to instrument without computers or mobile devices

WIDI: Connect MIDI instruments with computers and mobile devices

WIDI Thru6 BT

After the successful launch of WIDI technology, CME introduces a new branch of the WIDI family. Finally, you can combine wired and wireless with this 2-in-6-out MIDI thru/split solution for studio, stage and mobile music production.

With its unique combination of high-precision wired and ultra-low 3ms latency wireless, you can discover new ways to work with MIDI.

With its Smart Connectivity Algorithms and Adaptive Frequency Hopping interference is minimised, performance range maximised (65ft/20m without obstacles) and latency is reduced to an absolutely inaudible 3ms as measured between 2 WIDI devices.

Simply merge 2 MIDI inputs and split them to 6 MIDI outputs (through). Synchronise all your MIDI devices without data errors, without signal loss or dropout for professional use on stage, in the studio and for mobile setups.

In addition, you can enjoy the convenience of advanced wireless MIDI as developed and designed by CME. This opens up a new world by adding motion controllers, wearables, smart devices and mobile devices to your MIDI setup.

Easily connect all MIDI devices with standard MIDI I/O via MIDI cables. Automatically connect with WIDI devices, standard Bluetooth MIDI controllers like the Xkey Air, and easily connect with iOS, macOS, Android, and Windows (10/11).

And with advanced Bluetooth MIDI groups you can connect up to 10 MIDI devices simultaneously through a single WIDI Thru6BT....


Tags

Bluetooth MIDI, customer care, Featured, WIDI, Wireless MIDI


You may also like

CME WIDI App: Start Guide

CME WIDI App: Start Guide

CME Awards 2023

CME Awards 2023

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked

  1. Wow, that would be a dream come true if Widi UHost also contains a battery to provide USB power to the device! Will it work with USB powered devices?

    1. It does not work with a battery. It works with a double USB-port to add an external power supply. You can then use a simple 5v USB power bank to ensure all is powered.

  2. Why not add a 2,5/3,5 mm in and out MIDI (like the Jack) to the Uhost. That would be really powerfull and flexible! I would order at least two or three!

    1. Because USB MIDI is totally different to TRS/DIN MIDI! 😉 So, it will not work this way. What can be done is adding both features to an advanced WIDI product. Then again, this will mean different pricing.

  3. I am so amazed at how well this product works. Just took it out the box hooked it up and it works perfectly. From 75 ft away with some obstruction between didn’t missed a note and very low latency. Great product

  4. I have ipad with ONSONG which is connected via bluetooth to widi jack 1 which is wired connected to quad cortex and listen to channel 1. The widi jack 1 is wireless connected to widi jack 2 which is wired connected to zoom rfx2200 and listen to midi channel 2.
    My problem is:
    If I send with ONSONG a midi command to change pc on rfx2200 it doesn’t work. It looks like midi through is not working. Any ideas how to solve this?
    Thanks for helping me.

    1. I suspect there is something wrong with your routing. As you need to create a wireless group with your iPad or WIDI device as the central device. It seems now, with. this limited information, that you try to work with two central devices.

      Feel welcome to learn more in this blog about wireless group connectivity: https://www.cme-pro.com/public-beta-test-ios-widi-app/

      Also, be sure to reach out to our support for further information and guidelines: https://www.cme-pro.com/support/

      If you want direct support you can fill in the form on our support page or go to our Facebook Group where there is even more shared knowledge on setting this up for you: http://www.facebook.com/groups/cmeprofans

      Hope this helps.

  5. Does the Widi master work with the Alesis vortex and Roland integers? If so how will it connect with just midi out on the vortex?

    1. Hi there, thanks for reaching out.

      As reported by our community WIDI Master and the Alesis Vortex work together. You can find it here: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1L6D2lUkcX0NEHpzp0vw5aAtAIsHANeUOCCH_fXtwyKI/edit?usp=sharing

      For devices with only MIDI Out, you can disconnect the sub-connecter (for MIDI IN) and work solely with the MIDI OUT via the large main adapter of WIDI Master.

      For Roland integers, I am not exactly sure which device this should be. Let me offer you three options towards a solutions.

      1) Check the manual of your Roland device to locate the correct MIDI terminal and if it provides power via MIDI OUT as explained in this blog.

      2) Opt-in on the shared knowledge of our active community via the compatibility list or the Facebook group: http://www.facebook.com/groups/cmeprofans

      3) Reach out to us via https://www.cme-pro.com/support and we are happy to work together with you to answer your questions.

      Hope this helps!

  6. Can you tell me how I can connect the WIDI Uhost to a device with a USB C port? I have a Novation Launchpad X and it’s got a USB port. Will the Uhost come with a USB C to USB C OTG cable? Thank you

    1. Thanks for reaching out on this matter. The short answer is: no, it will not.

      As there are so many different USB terminals and cables, it is impossible to offer all solution. To keep it cost-efficient, the WIDI Uhost does not come with any cables.

      What you can do is either get your desired cable solution locally and affordable or go for the two mentioned cable packs. In your specific case, for usb-c to usb-c otg, the solution is to get one locally or via Amazon.

      Hope this helps.

      1. Ok great thank you. As long as there is an option available then I’m happy!

        One more question, if I want to pick up an additional WIDI Master, can I also do this at a discounted price? I already purchased two of these from your initial crow-funding for this product & have subsequently purchased your WIDI Jack through an online retailer.

        Thank you

        1. Unfortunately that is not possible. The discount is only for products in pre-sale. In this case it are WIDI Uhost and WIDI Bud Pro.

          Hope this helps.

  7. Let’s say there is an UHOST connected to the computer and there are 4 WIDI Masters connected to 4 midi devices. Can I play those 4 midi devices with 4 virtual instrument running on the computer?

    1. Yes. You can use 1x 16 MIDI channels per WIDI group and create a group with 1 central (Uhost) and 4 peripherals (WIDI Masters). Next you can route this 16 channels to the different instruments on your computer. At this stage limited to the 16 MIDI channels available via your Uhost. Hope this helps!

      1. As I understood, Uhost will work as one physical MIDI port that can handle up to 16 midi channels, and out of them, four peripherals (WIDI Masters) acts like four individual midi channels.

        I have an old Roland A80 midi controller with 2 Physical MIDI IN Ports and 4 Physical MIDI OUT Ports. The problem here is, one WIDI Master has 2 Jacks for MIDI IN and OUT (If I’m understood precisely). So only one MIDI jack of the WIDI Master can plug into the keyboard MIDI out ports. If I connect one UHOST to the computer and 4 WIDI Masters with only one jack plug into keyboard MIDI outs, will the keyboard be able to play four virtual instruments on the computer?

        1. I think that is what you can do.

          For WIDI Master, it can operate as standalone when the large main adapter is connected to a powered MIDI Out. This way you can attach for single MIDI OUT parts of WIDI Master.

          Next you can create a wireless MIDI group with the Uhost as the central and the 4x WIDI Master as your peripherals.
          https://www.cme-pro.com/public-beta-test-ios-widi-app/

          After setting that group via the WIDI iOS app and saving it to the default memory of your WIDIs, on start up they will pair automatically as the group. To control 4 separate virtual instruments within your computer or via your DAW, you need to route the 16 MIDI channels properly between your controlling keyboard and receiving virtual instruments.

          As long as the Roland A80 provides power on all 4 MIDI Outputs, you will be good to go. If this is not the case, your option would be WIDI Jack + 5-PIN DIN cable option.

          Hope this helps!

          1. Thank you very much for your details. I will have to check whether my Roland A80 MIDI Outs are self-powered.

            One more thing, Does WIDI Bud Pro does the same that UHost does?

  8. Nice pricing for the USB-devices. Too bad that the DIN-prices went up again. It will cost me 100€ to connect an old keytar to an old keyboard. For just hobby a bit too much for me…

    1. Great to hear that you like our development. As always with innovation, when the market is still small, manufacturing and production is relatively expensive. When sufficient people move to wireless MIDI solution, we can negotiate better pricing for bulk and parts.

      In our webshop we have two different prices. One during the crowd creation and introduction of a new product. The other one is the regular price. Next, it is up to the market of international resellers to decide their own pricing.

      Simply wait until there is a good offer from your local reseller. Like Amazon Prime Day on June 21/22. Or similar offers from Sweetwater, Thomann, Gear4Music or Bax Music.

      And if you can, always join the presale, It is absolutely the best price offer we provide.

      Hope this helps!

      T.

  9. Very confused right now lol. I’d like to be able to wirelessly connect
    (1) Native Instruments Traktor Z2,
    (1) Native Instruments Machine MK3, and (1) Presonus Faderport 8 to my MacBook Pro wirelessly. Is this possible? They all 3 connect using USB midi. If so which product and accessories do I need? Thanks for any information you can provide!

    1. Hi Benjamin, my apologies for my late reply. I missed your comment.

      For USB MIDI your solution is the future WIDI Uhost. It is currently in pre-order with discount. You can apply coupon BLEMIDI and we expect shipping half of October 2021.

      If you want to create a wireless MIDI group, this can only be done with WIDI devices. Your MacBook Pro cannot be used with its integrated Bluetooth MIDI. This is because in the architecture of Apple, the Bluetooth address changes every 15 minutes for security reasons.

      You can bypass this limitation of your laptop by adding WIDI Bud Pro. It is also on pre-sale, just like WIDI Uhost.

      With those 4 devices you can create a WIDI group. You can set that once via the WIDI App and store it as default in your WIDI devices. Next time you power them up, they will pair automatically.

      Hope this helps.

      T.

    2. Ohw I forgot. About accessory cables. It depends on what kind of role and USB port your device offers. In our cable packs you have two cables. One for external power (if needed) and one for MIDI data via USB. The second one can also redirect power to your device when it is bus powered via USB. That is what we call an OTG USB cable. It can be for both data as well as power.

      I think all your MIDI devices act as a USB device and have the square USB port that is USB-B. So your best option is https://www.cme-pro.com/product/widi-accessory-usb-b-otg-widi-cable-pack1/

      Hope this helps too!

  10. hi, i would like to use the Fishman Triple Play Connect to my PC. however it has no power of it's own so, what's the point in trying to make it wireless [and save the 300$ plus for the full Fishman Wireless] when i would have to attach a 5v wall powered usb charger/power supply or connect a usb cable from the PC? it defeats the object.

    1. I am not exactly familiar with the Fishman devices, but if it can be powered by a standard 5v power source over USB adn you want to keep things wireless, your solution is a USB power bank. I’ve seen clever solution for this in the community via http://www.facebook.com/groups/cmeprofans – You can raise your concern there, and see what others have to say about it.

  11. Hi
    I would like to use 2 iPads to connect and control 1 MIDI device (Boss RC600) via Bluetooth. What WIDI components would I require to achieve this?

    1. You will need one WIDI Uhost or WIDI Bud Pro on each iPad and a WIDI Jack + 5-pin DIN cable options on your RC600. Next you can create a WIDI group with the WIDI Jack as the central and the Uhosts as its peripherals. You can check out the online start guides for the exact procedure via https://www.cme-pro.com/support

      Hope this helps!

    1. It has been a consideration, but not a solid plan at this stage. With the current range of WIDI devices, you can already make the majority of MIDI hardware devices go wireless 😉

  12. Hello,

    Great site and tool.. I have a question, thats how I came to this site.

    I have two device a Yamaha VL70m and a Roland Aerophone go (05).
    My question: can I couple these tow using WIDI?

    Would be awesome if I could.

    1. Hi Jan, thanks for reaching out and great to have you here. I checked the online compatibility list (https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1L6D2lUkcX0NEHpzp0vw5aAtAIsHANeUOCCH_fXtwyKI/edit?usp=sharing) and both your devices are listed as being compatible with WIDI.

      You can always leave a message in our group, there are maybe other community members who can confirm this, as I do not know all MIDI instruments: http://www.facebook.com/groups/cmeprofans

      I think you can plug in a WIDI Master in your VL70 and connect it with the built-in Bluetooth of your AE-05.

      Hope this helps!

{"email":"Email address invalid","url":"Website address invalid","required":"Required field missing"}