ESI M4U eX ESM4UEX USB 3.0 MIDI Interface with 8 Ports and USB Hub
Product description
Connect MIDI instruments to a computer-based studio, or route MIDI signals between devices without a computer. The ESI M4U eX brings eight MIDI ports and a three-connection USB hub together in one compact interface. Choose it for flexible MIDI routing, a simpler interface may suit a setup that only needs a few fixed connections.
Tech summary
Each of the eight MIDI ports can operate as an input or an output. The interface detects the connected MIDI devices automatically, and coloured LEDs on the front show each port’s current input or output configuration. That flexibility makes it easier to adapt the routing as your studio changes, whether you need several inputs, several outputs or a mix of both.
The USB 3.0 connection links the interface to a computer, while three USB hub connections provide space for other USB equipment such as a keyboard or software dongle. The M4U eX is class-compliant and works without installing a driver, it can draw power over USB. It is listed for use with Windows, macOS and iOS devices, including computers, iPad and iPhone, and is designed to work with major DAWs.
- Type: USB 3.0 MIDI interface with USB hub
- MIDI ports: 8, with automatic input/output detection
- USB hub: 3 connections
- Dimensions: 17D x 10.4W x 8.4H centimetres
- Weight: 454 grams
How to use it
Connect the M4U eX to your computer over USB, then connect MIDI equipment to the interface’s ports. Automatic detection assigns each port as an input or output according to the connected devices, with the front-panel LEDs showing the configuration. This can help keep a multi-device setup adaptable without manually assigning every port.
For a computer-free setup, use the standalone modes to route MIDI signals directly. The interface can function as a MIDI Thru box, sending a signal from one input to seven outputs, or as a MIDI merger, combining signals from seven inputs into one output. Select the required mode using the button on the unit. For a mobile music-making setup, it can also connect with an iPad or iPhone for use with Cubasis LE.
Getting the most from it
Use the three USB hub connections to bring compatible USB equipment together with your MIDI connections at the centre of the setup. When the connected USB devices call for additional power, the M4U eX can use the included DC power supply, otherwise, it can run from USB bus power. This gives you a choice of powering approach to suit the equipment you are connecting.
The eight configurable ports are useful when a fixed four-in, four-out arrangement is not the right fit. You can configure the connections for up to eight inputs, up to eight outputs, or a combination such as six outputs and two inputs. It suits you if you want one interface for computer-based MIDI work and standalone routing, with USB hub connections alongside.
Should you buy it?
The ESI M4U eX is a practical choice for a studio with several MIDI devices, changing input and output needs, or a mix of computer-based and standalone routing. Automatic port detection and clear front-panel indicators help make its flexible setup easier to follow, while the USB hub adds connections for other equipment in the same workspace. If your priority is adaptable MIDI connectivity in one compact unit, it brings those functions together without restricting you to a single port arrangement.