MLA-XLR is a single channel, bidirectional, long distance amplifier or driver for MIDI signals. It extends the range of MIDI to over 1000 feet using standard balanced audio lines (audio snakes, mic cables, etc.).
MLA-XLR is refreshingly simple to use. There are no settings to configure. Just plug in the power supply and connect two MLA- XLRs together with a pair of standard mic cables. Then, connect your MIDI gear as you would normally.
While the MIDI protocol specifies a maximum cable distance of about 50 feet (more or less, depending on the type of cable and other variables), more than 50 feet of MIDI transmission requires amplification.
MLA-XLR takes a MIDI input and converts it to a balanced, differential signal using the RS-422 specification. At the other end, another MLA-XLR detects the signal using a sensitive receiver that has a high degree of noise immunity. This combination lends itself to long distance, error free installations required in professional applications with abosolutely no latency.
Since the MIDI signal is converted into a non-MIDI signal, an installation requires a MIDI Line Amplifier at each end of the cable. MLA-XLR also provides a lower cost expansion option for interfacing with other MLA-1 and MLA- 10 units in a network application with custom wiring.