Using Orchid with External Synths (OP-1, MicroFreak etc): The Role of a USB MIDI HostUpdated 9 hours ago

To connect Orchid directly to another piece of hardware that also uses USB for MIDI (like an OP-1 Field or a modern synth), you may need a special device called a USB MIDI Host.

• Why is it Needed? Most musical devices with a USB port, including Orchid, are "devices," not "hosts." A host (like a computer) is needed to manage the connection between two devices. You cannot simply plug two USB devices into each other.

• What it Does: A USB MIDI Host box acts as a mini-computer, allowing two or more USB MIDI devices to communicate without a laptop.

• How to Connect:

  1. Power the USB MIDI Host.

  2. Connect Orchid's USB-C output to one of the host's USB inputs.

  3. Connect your other synth's USB output to another input on the host.

  4. The host will route the MIDI data between them.

• Community-Recommended Devices: Users have had success with the Intech Studio Knot and the Doremidi DUH-10.