How do I connect MIDI devices?

EP-40tutorialguide
By ivan.codes·Updated Apr 2026·Official EP-40 Guide ↗

Connecting MIDI Devices

The EP-40 can connect via 3.5mm TRS-MIDI or USB-C. Both send and receive MIDI, so you can control external synths or use a keyboard to play the EP-40.

Physical Connection

Use a 3.5mm TRS-MIDI cable (Type A pinout) for hardware MIDI devices. The MIDI jacks are opto-coupled on input and output 3.3V. Connect MIDI keyboards, drum machines, or synths this way.

For USB-C, plug directly into a computer or USB MIDI controller. The EP-40 appears as a MIDI device and sends clock and transport messages.

MIDI Settings

Press SHIFT + ERASE to access system settings, then use minus/plus to navigate:

  • 100: Clock off (default)
  • 101: Clock in (receive clock from another device)
  • 102: Clock out (send clock to another device)
  • 110: Receive all channels, send on channel 1 (default)
  • 111-126: Set specific MIDI channels 1-16
  • 127: Send only if channel assigned to sound
  • 130: MIDI thru off
  • 131: MIDI thru on
  • 140: Ignore program change (default)
  • 141: Program change changes sound

Playing from a MIDI Keyboard

Connect your keyboard, then press KEYS on the EP-40 to enter chromatic mode. The selected pad becomes the root note. Hold KEYS + minus/plus to change octaves.

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