Motu Micro Express 2 USB

A MOTU Interface Designed for MIDI Routing and SMPTE Synchronization in the Studio

Designed as a true MIDI hub, the MIDI Express XT fits within MOTU's approach of offering interfaces capable of serving simultaneously as a USB interface, patchbay, and MIDI processor. Its 4 x 6 matrix architecture and ClockWorks software allow structuring a complex hardware configuration (multiple sources, multiple destinations, and synchronization needs) while maintaining direct front-panel access to recall routing scenes.

Who It's For and What It's For: Production, Live, and Hybrid Setups with Multiple MIDI Devices

This USB MIDI interface is aimed at musicians and technicians working with multiple MIDI devices simultaneously: master keyboards, sound modules, drum machines, hardware sequencers, and MIDI effects. In a home studio, it simplifies cabling and avoids unplugging devices with every session change. In a studio or control room, it becomes a reliable central point to route, merge, and filter MIDI data while ensuring time synchronization when machines, a recorder, or a video system need to be locked to timecode.

The standalone mode is a major advantage if you want to use your routing on stage or in rehearsal without starting the computer: the front-panel recallable presets allow quick switching from one scenario to another (for example, master keyboard to multiple sound modules, or drum machines to multiple destinations) with a patchbay logic.

Key Features and Strengths for Clean Timing and Flexible Routing

4 x 6 MIDI Merge Matrix: Everything to Everything, Without Losing Control

The MIDI Express XT offers a 4 x 6 MIDI merge matrix: you can assign any input to any output, route one input to multiple outputs, and finely manage data flows. It also allows you to mute MIDI data on any cable, useful for eliminating unwanted messages, isolating a control track, or preventing accidental duplication of commands during recording.

SMPTE, MMC, and MTS: An Interface That Speaks the Language of Synchronization

For configurations where timing is critical, support for SMPTE timecode in all formats (including 23.976 frames per second) facilitates integration with audio and video environments. MIDI Time Stamping (MTS) targets sub-millisecond temporal precision, useful for maintaining clean rhythmic rendering when multiple devices exchange many MIDI events. MMC (MIDI Machine Control) compatibility enhances its value in studio environments where transport commands must be shared between machines and software.

Front-Panel Presets, Built-In Backup, and Safety Controls

The 16 presets (including 8 programmable) are directly accessible from the front panel via buttons and LEDs, allowing quick validation of setup labeling and recalling configurations without using a computer. Battery-backed memory preserves your settings. Finally, the panic button is a real plus in case of stuck notes or unexpected MIDI behavior, enabling you to restore a stable state instantly.

ClockWorks on Mac and Windows: Programming and System Management

Drivers and the ClockWorks software for Mac OS and Windows serve to program and operate the interface, complementing the front-panel preset recall. It is the key tool to neatly organize your MIDI patch, prepare project-specific configurations, and streamline a collection of devices.

Technical specifications

Input connector

Jack 6.35 mm, USB, MIDI

Output connector

Jack, MIDI

4 x 6 MIDI merge matrix	connection from any device to any other	Format	half 19-inch rack, 1 standard unit
Design	VLSI technology	Dimensions	24.13 x 17.78 x 4.45 cm