Midi Interface Explained: Features, Types and Tips

By Oliver Thompson 2 March 2025 3 min read

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Midi Interface Explained: Features, Types and Tips

A midi interface is a device that converts MIDI signals to and from a format that a computer can receive via USB, enabling communication between MIDI-equipped hardware — keyboards, synthesisers, drum machines, hardware effects units — and a computer running a DAW or other MIDI-aware software. Most modern keyboards and controllers send MIDI over USB directly without requiring a separate interface, but hardware using the older 5-pin DIN MIDI connection requires a dedicated midi interface to bridge the two systems.

What a MIDI Interface Does

It receives MIDI data from connected hardware on its DIN inputs, converts it to USB MIDI data and sends it to the computer. In the other direction, it receives MIDI data from the computer over USB and sends it out through its DIN outputs to connected hardware. This two-way conversion allows a DAW to record from and play back through hardware synthesisers, control hardware sequencers and drum machines, and synchronise timing between multiple devices using MIDI clock messages.

Types: Single-Port and Multi-Port

Single-port interfaces — the most common type — provide one MIDI input and one MIDI output. These are sufficient for connecting one piece of hardware at a time and are affordable (£20–£60 for models from Roland and M-Audio). Multi-port interfaces provide multiple independent MIDI inputs and outputs, allowing several pieces of hardware to be connected simultaneously and addressed independently by the DAW. Multi-port devices from manufacturers including MOTU, iConnectivity and Focusrite are used in larger studio setups where multiple synthesisers, drum machines and effects units need to be controlled and recorded simultaneously. For guidance on selecting the right device for a specific setup, the buyer's guide covers the main options at each price point.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a midi interface used for?

It converts MIDI data between the 5-pin DIN format used by older hardware and the USB format used by modern computers. This allows vintage synthesisers, drum machines and hardware sequencers to communicate with DAW software. Devices with USB MIDI connections do not need a separate interface.

Do I need to install a driver?

Some interfaces are class-compliant and work without additional drivers — simply plug them in and the operating system and DAW recognise them. Others, particularly older models, require a manufacturer-supplied driver. Check the interface's specifications before purchase, and always download drivers from the manufacturer's official website.

What is the difference between single-port and multi-port?

A single-port device provides one MIDI input and one MIDI output, allowing connection to one piece of hardware at a time. A multi-port device provides several independent inputs and outputs, allowing multiple hardware devices to be connected and addressed individually by the DAW.

Can I use an audio interface instead?

Many audio interfaces include 5-pin DIN MIDI connections alongside their audio inputs and outputs, making a separate device unnecessary. Check whether your audio interface has MIDI DIN ports before purchasing anything additional.

What do most studios use for MIDI hardware connections?

Single-port setups commonly use the Roland UM-ONE mk2 or M-Audio UNO. Larger studios with multiple pieces of MIDI hardware typically use MOTU's MIDI Express series or iConnectivity interfaces, which provide several independent ports and integrate cleanly with professional DAWs.