MIDI Solutions Merger V2

I use the V2 to link the clock signal of my drum machine and note input from a midi keyboard, which then splits to a sampler, and a separate sequencer which drives a number of synthesizers.

Pros are - it’s very simple to operate, just plug in two inputs at one end, and feed the combined signal out to one or two outputs. No noticeable lag / dropouts, never “crashes”, good shape/size.

Cons - As other reviewers have said, not all midi sources supply enough voltage to power the unit, so, if you are trying to merge the signals of two midi controllers (a keyboard and a fader-bank sending usb-to-midi clock from your computer, for example), it’s likely that they will not be able to power the V2. if your midi-rig consists of only USB-powered devices, V2 will likely not work.

In this case it would have been helpful to have an additional usb-in socket, who knows, maybe in V3.

Been using this for a bit more than a year, I use “hardware” synths/machines, so I always have one device to drive the power. Very happy with the product, would recommend for anyone who uses hardware. Might need another soon!

MIDI Solutions Products do the job, period. Never had any issues with them.

Now, they are powered by the MIDI signal on MIDI IN 1, and a signal was never meant to be a power source. Old synthesizers, and some modern synthesizers deliver a strong enough signal, but a USB-powered MIDI interface typically won't. Nevertheless, this is a feature, because it means there's no clunky power adapter needed. Yet, my only complaint is: they could have provided a universal power input (e.g. usb) for those cases when none of the MIDI sources deliver a powerful enough signal. Not that it bothers me often: I mainly connect vintage synths.

I had this product a good while, and had to buy another one since I lost the first one.

I use this little box to merge two MIDI controllers, a keytar and a Nord used also as MIDI master, into my main sound generator's MIDI input.

I would say the main advantage over some of its competitors is the lack of a need for a power adapter, meaning less cables flying around AND not being dependent on an external power supply. Power is drawn from one of the MIDI in.

It's light, sturdy, and it has survived years inside my lead box on the road with no padding / protection whatsoever.

No detectable latency, no crashes, no panic. It does what it says on the tin.