MIDI Cable Basics

Traditional MIDI uses 5-pin DIN cables to transmit note and control data between devices. Only three pins are used: one for ground, one for data in, one for data out. USB MIDI is common for computer connections—most modern synths and interfaces have USB—while DIN remains standard for synth-to-synth, standalone sequencing, and modular setups. Some devices have both.

DIN vs USB: When to Use Each

5-pin DIN is ideal for daisy-chaining synths without a computer. Connect the MIDI out of your master device to the MIDI in of the first slave, then chain thru ports to additional devices. Keep cables under 15 meters to avoid timing drift. DIN is also the standard for Eurorack MIDI interfaces.

USB MIDI simplifies computer-based setups. One cable carries power (for class-compliant devices) and MIDI. No interface needed for a single synth. For multiple devices, use a USB hub. USB is bidirectional, so one connection handles both in and out.

What to Look For

Cable length: Keep DIN cables under 15 meters. Longer runs can cause jitter.
Quality: Shielded cables reduce noise in environments with lots of power and RF.
Adapters: Eurorack often uses 3.5mm mini-jacks for MIDI. DIN-to-3.5mm adapters are common. Check your module's manual for the correct pinout.

Connecting MIDI Lab to Hardware

MIDI Lab streams via Web MIDI, which works with USB-connected interfaces and synths. Connect your device to your computer, open the Infinite Engine in Chrome or Edge, and select your output. No extra cables—your existing USB connection handles it. For more on hardware setups, see How to Use MIDI with Eurorack and MIDI Controllers.