USBMIDIliitäntä

USBMIDIliitäntä, often referred to as USB-MIDI, is a standard that allows musical instruments and other MIDI devices to communicate with computers and other MIDI-compatible devices using the Universal Serial Bus (USB) connection. Prior to USB-MIDI, the traditional MIDI connection relied on 5-pin DIN connectors and a separate MIDI interface for computers. USB-MIDI simplifies this by integrating MIDI data transmission directly into the USB protocol.

This integration means that many modern MIDI keyboards, synthesizers, controllers, and audio interfaces can connect directly to a computer's USB port without the need for additional hardware. The computer's operating system typically recognizes the USB-MIDI device automatically, providing a plug-and-play experience. Software applications, such as Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) and sequencers, can then send and receive MIDI messages to and from these connected devices.

The advantages of USB-MIDI include its ease of use, reduced cabling, and often higher data transfer rates compared to older serial MIDI connections. It also allows for power delivery to the connected device over the USB cable, further simplifying setup. While dedicated MIDI interfaces still exist for specific professional workflows or older equipment, USB-MIDI has become the predominant method for connecting MIDI devices to computers in both home and professional music production environments.