There is MIDI Noise in my Audio signal

Problem

When sending MIDI messages from your controller to your MIDI devices, you can hear a “tick” sound in your audio signal. This problem is more obvious when sending a stream of MIDI messages like MIDI Clock messages or CC messages via your expression pedal.

This issue is more common in devices with TRS MIDI implementations. From our experience, pedals that use DIN5 MIDI implements the MIDI standard.

Cause

There is a ground loop in your setup, likely caused by MIDI devices receiving MIDI without an opto-isolator in the circuit, or perhaps not designed properly to isolate the digital signals from the

In the MIDI standard, the MIDI receiving device should be designed with an opto-isolator to isolate the MIDI controller from the MIDI device.

We are not able to comment on why the MIDI device is not designed with an opto-isolator, or why your MIDI device is leaking digital noise into its audio signal path. Check with the manufacturer on that.

This problem has nothing to do with the MIDI Controller. The MIDI Controller simply sends a MIDI signal out from its MIDI ports. In the MIDI standard, the receiving device needs to implement proper isolation to prevent ground loops.

Solution

Usually, cutting the ground in your TRS cable might help break the ground loop and solve the noise issue.

If not, manufacturers like Meris sells a MIDI Box which implements isolation. Strymon sells a cable for their TRS MIDI devices that implements isolation in the cable itself.

USB Noise

If the noise comes when you are connected to the computer via USB, you can try adding a USB isolator which is relatively low cost:


https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005006100246259.html

Updated on: 12/08/2024