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10 Best MIDI Cables Review & Buying Guide in 2024

Best Midi Cables

A musician requires a variety of equipment to produce music. One of the most important things is a MIDI cable. Whether you are an aspiring musician or an established artist, you need a cable to use with your musical instruments.

MIDI cables are not something new. This technology is almost 40 years old and is still used by audio engineers. Whether you are recording a million-dollar album or just a single track, you need a MIDI keyboard cable to get things done.

To get the most out of your keyboard cable you need the best one for your recordings. With a reliable and quality cable, you can have a smooth jamming session. Not just that, but you can also mix, edit, or overdub your tracks easily.

To help you find the best MIDI cables, we have compiled a list just for you. In the post below you will find the top-selling cables in the market. So without any delay, let’s get you started.

Best MIDI Cables Reviews

Finding the best MIDI keyboard cable can be an overwhelming task. But don’t worry because we have done the heavy lifting for you.

#1. Monoprice 108532 MIDI Cable: Best Overall

Monoprice MIDI Cable - 3 Feet - Black With Keyed 5-pin DIN Connector, Molded Connector Shells
  • Quality at a Fair Price: Monoprice's rugged design and rigid quality control standards deliver high...
  • Feature a standard, keyed 5-pin DIN connector on each end with molded connector shells.
  • The cable jacket is soft, but durable, and will last a lifetime.

You don’t need to spend loads of money to get high-quality cable. Monoprice 108532 MIDI Cable is an Amazon Choice product with a 4.5-star rating. This is one of the best MIDI cables you will find in the market.

This RoHS Compliant cable comes with a standard keyed 5-pin DIN connector with molded connector shells on both ends. Unlike low-quality cables, it has a soft but durable jacket that will last a lifetime.

So if you are looking for the best MIDI cable for your gig, then you can buy this one with confidence.

Why is it Unique?

This cable from Mono price features a 5-pin DIN connector on each end with molded connector shells. It also has a soft, durable jacket that can last longer than many other cables within the same range.

Since this is a RoHS-certified product, you can work with it without any worries. Despite being a branded product, it is priced fairly and also comes with a lifetime warranty.

Buyer’s Experience

Buyers love this keyboard cable because of the molded connector shells at both ends of the cable. They also like the durable jacket that adds extra strength in wear-and-tear areas.

This is a long-lasting cable available at an affordable price. Some buyers opt for this cable just because it comes with a lifetime warranty.

Pros

  • Made by a reputable brand
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Durable and long-lasting
  • RoHS compliant

Cons

  • None to mention

Best Fit For

This MIDI cable is best suited for MIDI to MIDI connections. If you want a high-quality cable from a reputable brand, then this could be the perfect choice for you. It has a great design and is also eco-friendly.

#2. Hosa MID-320BK MIDI Cable: Top Pick

Hosa MID-320BK 5-Pin DIN to 5-Pin DIN MIDI Cable, 20 Feet
  • This cable is designed to interconnect MIDI devices. It is wired 5-pin discrete and compatible with...
  • Nickel-plated plugs for rugged durability and efficient signal transfer
  • Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) conductors for enhanced signal clarity

If you are looking for a quality cable to interconnect MIDI devices, then this could be the best choice for you. It has a wired 5-pin discrete and works with all MIDI standards.

Being a leading brand, Hosa products are designed to meet the demands of modern-day professionals. This is a durable MIDI cable with nickel-plated plugs for efficient signal transfer.

Why is it Unique?

These 20 feet long can be used in any music or recording studio. It is equipped with oxygen-free copper conductors for improved signal clarity. It also comes with an OFC spiral shield for effective RFI and EMI flexibility and rejection.

Compared to other MIDI cables within this range, the Hosa cable is more durable and long-lasting. It is designed for better signal transmission. Besides that, it is also very effective in preventing radio frequency and electromagnetic interference.

The best thing about this cable is that it is compatible with most MIDI standards, including SysEx. It means you can use it with more advanced instruments as well.

Buyer’s Experience

Buyers are overwhelmed with the quality and performance of the cable. For a cable within this price range, it offers excellent signal transmission. Not just that, but it is also good for preventing electromagnetic and radio frequency interference.

You can take advantage of all these features at a very affordable rate.

Pros

  • 20-foot length
  • Nickel-plated plugs
  • Improved signal transmission
  • Compatible with SysEx machines

Cons

  • None to mention

Best Fit For

This cable is best for interconnecting MIDI devices. That’s because it is compatible with all MIDI standards and even SysEx. Due to the length of the cable, you can use it on stages for your music events.

#3. FORE MIDI Cable: Best Quality

Sale
Fore MIDI to USB Interface MIDI Adapter with Input&Output Connecting with Keyboard/Synthesizer for Editing&Recording Track work with Windows/Mac OS for Studio USB 2.0 Color Red - 6.5Ft
  • FORE 1 MIDI in / 1 MIDI out MIDI interface, 16 MIDI input & output channels. Connecting keyboard,...
  • Plug & Play, with a Built-in driver and Intelligent LED Indicator. No extra difficult driver...
  • No delay MIDI Input and Output. High-performance FTP processing chip, stable and fast speed MIDI...

Whether you are recording audio or editing a track, Fore MIDI to USB Interface MIDI Cable could make your work easier. This plug-and-cable has a built-in driver. But what we like the most is the LED indicator. It is these features that make it an ideal purchase for users.

With this cable, you can connect keyboards, synthesizers, electric drums, and almost any device with input & output to a computer for editing or recording your track.

Why it is Unique?

The Fore MIDI to USB Interface Cable comes with universal compatibility of both the USB port and MIDI plug. This means it can be used with any device you need.

Besides that, it is also supported by a plethora of apps like DirectMusic, FL Studio 12, Sonar, Cubase, and more. No matter, what you prefer, this cable will work.

It also has an FTP processing chip for high-performance signal transmission. This enables you to get a stable and clean recording every time. The cable also uses premium quality oxygen-free copper wiring with a durable PVC jacket, copper shielding, and foil shielding to protect against interference.

Buyer’s Experience

One thing that buyers love about this product is the built-in driver and the intelligent LED indicator. Unlike other cables, this one is easy to install.

The LED indicator shows different lights & statuses during setup. Red is for Power, while Blue indicates connections and signal transfer. They also prefer this cable because it is integrated with MIDI and USB cables. It comes with multi-layer protection. That’s not all, because it can also resist electromagnetic interference and ensure fast audio transmission.

Pros

  • Intelligent LED indicator.
  • Built-in driver support.
  • Can be used with almost all USB and MIDI plugs.
  • Compatible with many apps.

Cons

  • Not compatible with USB-C ports.

Best Fit For

This amazing cable can be used with Windows PC, Macs, and iOS. You can use it for recording, mixing, or editing tracks. In short, it is best for digitally recording music.

#4. Roland UM-ONE-MK2 MIDI Cable: Best Performance

Roland UM-ONE-MK2 One in Two Out Midi Cable
  • One-in/one-out MIDI interface with high-performance FPT processing
  • Compatible with Mac and Windows operating systems, and now with iOS on the iPad via the Apple iPad...
  • Data indicators for both MIDI input and output

Roland is yet another top brand when it comes to buying MIDI cables. If you are in search of a high-performance cable, then you can consider opting for this one.

It comes with a single integrated USB cable along with two MIDI ports. With the help of this cable, you can record audio from your instrument while transferring it to your computer. This will help you to mix tracks in real-time.

Why is it Unique?

What makes this cable unique is the high-performing, FTP processing chip that allows for fast signal transmission. With this cable, you can get the highest quality output, while maintaining low latencies.

It also comes with LED indicators that indicate output status and signal receipt. One of the best things about this cable is that it doesn’t require an external power source. This is a USB-bus-powered cable that is designed keeping in mind the needs of users.

Buyer’s Experience

Buyers are delighted as they can use this cable with a variety of devices. It is compatible with the iPad and can be connected using the Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit.

This makes the cable more convenient and easy to use. They also love the high performance it delivers. Although it is a bit pricey, it is worth the investment.

Pros

  • High-performance FPT processing.
  • Compatible with Mac and Windows.
  • LED indicator.
  • USB bus-powered.

Cons

  • Pricey.

Best Fit For

You can use this cable with a variety of devices including iPad, Windows, and Mac. It is best for digitally recording your music.

#5. OTraki USB MIDI Cable

If you want a MIDI cable that can work with most MIDI devices, then you should go for this one. You can use this cable with devices such as electronic drums, keyboards, and many other instruments.

Another good thing is that it doesn’t need any extra drivers to use. This means you can start recording and mixing right after installation.

Why is it Unique?

It comes with a built-in smart chip to provide a clean and stable signal transmission. This enables you to use it on your smartphone and tablets via an OTG cable to edit, record, and mix your music. It eliminates the need for a complicated noise-canceling setup.

Another great thing about this cable is that it works with both Mac and Windows computers. This means you can use this cable with whatever setup you already have. There is no need for you to use any other USB MIDI cable converter.

Buyer’s Experience

Buyers love the fact that it can be used with most devices. It has support for most standard MIDI interface devices on the market. They also praised it for its fast and stable transmission. For high-quality performance, this cable is the best.

Pros

  • No extra drivers are needed.
  • Stable and clean signal transmission.
  • Can be used on tablets via an OTG cable.
  • Compatible with both Windows and Mac computers.

Cons

  • Not compatible with type-B USB devices.

Best Fit For

As already mentioned above, you can use it with most electronic MIDI devices.

#6. Havit MIDI Cable

havit MIDI Cable 5 Pin MIDI to USB Cable MIDI Interface in-Out to USB Converter MIDI Adapter with Indicator for Piano Keyboard to PC Mac Laptop
  • 【Plug and Play MIDI Cable】Connect keyboard, MIDI keyboard, synthesizer and other devices...
  • 【Wide Compatibility MIDI Interface】- Compatible with most apps of Windows XP / Vista / 7/10 /...
  • 【Fast and stable MIDI data transmission】High-performance FTP processing chip, anti-interference...

Havit MIDI cable is a premium quality cable with connectors made with an aluminum alloy shell. This is the ultimate MIDI to USB cable you will need.

It is designed for high performance which is made possible with the FTP processing chip. It helps transmit high-fidelity audio without any hassles.

Why is it Unique?

Unlike other cables, you can use this one with about any device you want. From iOS to Android to Mac to Windows, it is compatible with all devices.

It comes with built-in LED indicators to indicate data input, signal output, and power status. It is also 5.9 feet long which enables you to connect devices at a distance.

Buyer’s Experience

According to buyers, they love the wide compatibility of this cable. They find it more convenient to use. Many buyers have also claimed the cable provides fast and stable MIDI data transmission.

It also comes with a high-performance FTP processing chip, and anti-interference to ensure the input signal is stable without delay.

Pros

  • Premium design.
  • High-performance FTP chip.
  • Wide compatibility.
  • Durable.

Cons

  • Has errors with SysEx systems.

Best Fit For

You can use this cable with almost any device you want. It is compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS.

#7. TENINYU USB to MIDI Cable

TENINYU USB to MIDI Cable Converter 2 in 1 PC to Synthesizer Music Studio Keyboard Interface Wire Plug Controller Adapter Cord 16 Channels Supports Computer Laptop Windows and Mac
  • Easy to turn your PC into a music studio. Start by connecting an electronic musical instrument to...
  • Easy to install adapter features MIDI in and out cables along with USB PC interface plug | Please...
  • MIDI adapter cable supports up to sixteen channels in and sixteen channels out | Adapter features...

TENINYU USB to MIDI Cable is the perfect solution for recording audio from MIDI to your computer. Unlike other cables, it is easy to install. You can start using it straight out of the box.

The best thing about this cable is that it works with both Windows and Mac computers without any issues.

Why is it Unique?

It comes with 5-pin connectors that support up to 16 channels. This allows you to run multiple audio parts from a single device.

Given the features of this cable, it comes at a very affordable price. You can use this cable for recording, mixing, and editing your audio.

Buyer’s Experience

Buyers prefer this cable as it is easy to set up. Instead of going through a difficult setup process, they can simply use it straight out of the box.

They are also impressed by the features that the cable offers. One of them is the LED indicator lights.

Pros

  • Easy-to-install. 
  • Wide compatibility.
  • Supports up to 16 channels.
  • Affordable.

Cons

  • Doesn’t work with Yamaha equipment.

Best Fit For

If you need something basic, then this cable could be a good option for you. However, you cannot use it with any Yamaha machines.

#8. MeloAudio Midi Cable

Sale
MeloAudio Lightning to MIDI Cable USB 2.0 Cable Lightning to Type B OTG Cable High Speed Cord Interconnections Converter MIDI Keyboard, Audio Interface, USB Microphone, 5FT
  • 【Easy to use】Simply connect your iOS devices to your musical instruments by plugging in the...
  • High Audio Quality: This MIDI connecting cable to lightning interface is designed to deliver the...
  • Note: If it doesn't work, please restart the iPad/iPhone and instrument, then connect them by this...

If you are looking for MIDI keyboard cables that can be connected directly to your iPad or iPhone, then this could be the best option for you.

It is made with the highest quality materials to deliver fast and stable signals while ensuring the highest audio quality.

Why is it Unique?

This cable has been tested to work on multiple compatible apps including Cool Edit Pro, Adobe Audition, Everyone Piano, Garage Band, Logic Pro, Reason, and many others.

Unlike other MIDI cables, this one doesn’t need any driver installation. With this cable adapter, you can play the electronic organ, electronic drum, and other MIDI instruments.

Buyer’s Experience

Buyers are happy with the high audio quality that this cable offers. This cable is designed to deliver the highest possible audio quality.

Besides that, it is widely compatible with all of the above iOS 10.32 or later. Even if the iOS system is upgraded, you can continue to use it.

Pros

  • Highest audio quality.
  • Optimized cord materials.
  • Durable.
  • Long-lasting.

Cons

  • Sometimes device needs to be restarted.

Best Fit For

This cable is ideal for connecting instruments, like your keyboard, to an iPad.

#9. Cable Matters MIDI Cable

Cable Matters 2-Pack 5 Pin DIN MIDI Cable, 5 Pin MIDI Cable - 6 Feet
  • 5 pin DIN to 5 pin DIN cable connects to a MIDI keyboard controller, MIDI foot controller such as...
  • Male to male 5 pin MIDI cable is wired straight through 5 pin to 5 pin to support MIDI equipment; 5...
  • Cost-effective 2-pack of MIDI cables provides one cable to support the MIDI IN function and one...

If you are building a studio and need quality cables, then this could be the ideal choice for you. You can use this cable to connect multiple instruments to a single device.

It comes with a lifetime warranty, so you can buy it with confidence.

Why is it Unique?

The first thing you will notice is the superior construction. It comes with molded strain-relief jackets along with easy-grip treads. In short, this cable is designed for ergonomic use.

It is also more flexible than other cables. This avoids unnecessary strain on the wire and thus, it lasts longer than other cables.

Buyer’s Experience

This is a cost-effective, pack of 2 MIDI cables. It provides one cable to support the MIDI IN function and one cable to support MIDI OUT on a MIDI instrument panel.

Buyers also love the superior construction of the DIN cables. The lifetime warranty gives them the confidence to buy it.

Pros

  • Pack of 2.
  • Affordable.
  • Lifetime warranty.
  • Ergonomic design.

Cons

  • Unshielded cables.

Best Fit For

If you are building a new studio or want to connect multiple devices, then this cable is great.

#10. LiDiVi MIDI to USB MIDI Cable

LiDiVi MIDI USB Interface MIDI Cable Adapter with Input & Output Connecting, Piano Keyboard/Synthesizer for Editing & Recording Professional MIDI Adapter Cord with Windows/Mac for Studio Red (6.5Ft)
  • [Fast and Stable Transmission] MIDI to USB adapter with a High-performance FTP processing chip...
  • [No need for any driver] MIDI to USB cable comes with a built-in driver and Intelligent LED...
  • [High-Quality MIDI Cables] High-quality MIDI Cable wire, multi-layer protection design. 1 in + 1 out...

Lastly, we have the LiDiVi MIDI to USB MIDI Cable. This is the cable you need for editing and recording your audio.

You can use it straight out of the box. Like other cables, it doesn’t require any driver installation. This helps you save a lot of time.

Why is it Unique?

This USB to MIDI In/MIDI Out interface supports up to 16 channels, so you can record more than one audio layer from a single device. Not just that, but you can also mix, overdub, edit, and print sheet compositions.

It is also compatible with multiple platforms including both Mac and Windows. You can also use it with Android devices, via an OTG adapter.

Buyer’s Experience

With this cable, buyers can get fast and stable connections. This is a high-performance cable with a multi-layer protection design.

They also prefer this product because of the easy installation. That’s because it doesn’t need any drivers.

Pros

  • No driver installation.
  • Supports up to 16 channels.
  • Wide compatibility.
  • High performance.

Cons

  • Doesn’t work with USB 3.0 devices.

Best Fit For

You can use this cable for expanding your creativity. You can use it with Mac, Windows, and even Android devices via an OTG adapter.

Buying Guide: Best MIDI Cables

When it comes to buying a MIDI cable, there are a few important factors that need to be considered. These factors will help you determine whether you are buying the right cable. To help you out, we have highlighted the factors below in the buyer’s guide.

1. Types

The first thing you need to consider is the type of MIDI cable you need. The most common type of MIDI cable is the one with a 5-pin DIN connector. It features a round head and can be plugged in one way. The thing about his type of cable is that they are slower than other types. But it is also one of the first standards that were ever made for audio transmission. For this reason, they are still very popular and can be easily found in many instruments.

With technological development, we have received other types of cables as well. This includes Firewire and USB, Wi-Fi and Ethernet, and Bluetooth. These types of cables are also used for wireless and digital transmission. But the problem is they are not fit for all instruments. If you want a more popular option, then MIDI cables with a 5-pin DIN connector would be the best choice for you.

2. Quality

If you are wondering if the quality of cable matters, then the answer is yes. But there is one thing that is even more important the processing chip inside the cables. It is needed to avoid interference.

When buying a cable, look for ones with durable jackets. These are the ones that are made for long-lasting use. Remember that cables undergo a lot of wear and tear. So you must consider the quality of the cable.

MIDI cables are not very expensive. So buying a high-quality cable shouldn’t affect much. Instead, it will benefit you in the long run. We recommend you choose any of the cables mentioned in the post as they are all made of the highest quality materials.

3. Brand

You will come across many brands of MIDI cables. But brands like Roland or Fore are known to manufacture high-quality cables.

You should look for brands that are preferred by most musicians. The more reputable the brand, the higher the quality of the product. Also, there are fewer chances of you receiving a faulty cable.

4. Warranty

Next comes the warranty. When buying a MIDI cable, check whether the manufacturer is offering a warranty or not.

You should look for a cable that comes with a warranty covering manufacturing defects. The best cables from reputable brands carry warranties that last a lifetime. In this case, the manufacturer will replace a faulty cable no matter what happens to it.

5. Secure Connection

Lastly, you also need to make sure that your keyboard cable provides a secure connection when plugged into your MIDI port. After all, you wouldn’t want a loose cable to get unplugged during a live event or recording session.

This is why you should look for high-quality MIDI cables from reputable brands. They offer the best cables in terms of connection and performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is a MIDI Cable needed for?

Ans: MIDI is short for musical instrument digital interface. A MIDI cable is used to connect keyboards and other electronic musical instruments to a PC. MIDI cables are labeled as “In” and “Out” plugs so that you don’t connect them to a port on an instrument with the same label.

Q2. What does a MIDI cable transmit?

Ans: MIDI cables are used for transferring data between music devices like a keyboard to a computer. It is specifically designed for musical instruments. Musicians use it to record, edit, and mix tracks.

Q3. Do I need to use a MIDI cable on my audio interface?

Ans: Many MIDI keyboards are equipped with USB connectivity, which means they can be connected directly to the computer using a USB connection. But not all audio interfaces have MIDI input and output. So you don’t need a MIDI cable for your audio interface every time.

Q4. Do I need both in and out MIDI?

Ans: Using a USB-DAW MIDI connection gives you many advantages. Since you can send MIDI data both ways, you need only one cable for both MIDI In and MIDI out.

Q5. What type of cable is used for the MIDI keyboard?

Ans: For a MIDI keyboard, you can use a MIDI keyboard cable with a 5-pin. If you want to connect multiple devices, you can use a cable from the MIDI THRU port on the first device to the MIDI IN port on the next one.

Final Verdict

Best MIDI cables are just as important as any other musical instrument for musicians. They need it to connect different musical instruments to a computer. For better performance, you must use a high-quality cable. In that case, you can select from the mentioned products in the post. We have included only the best and top-rated products on Amazon. Go through the details and choose the one that is most appropriate for you.

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