KORG BM-1 Bluetooth MIDI interface launched

KORG has announced the launch of its BM-1 Bluetooth MIDI interface, offering wireless MIDI capabilities to any instrument fitted with standard 5-pin MIDI jacks.

The device is a standalone unit which takes its power (5V or 3.3V) supplied from the MIDI OUT terminal of the connected device.

The biggest issue with Bluetooth in general is its latency, which is obviously of concern when audio and MIDI timing is critical. KORG claims a latency of just 3ms, which should be virtually unnoticeable, or at least easily mitigated.

It has wide compatibility with any Bluetooth MIDI controller, iPhone/iPad/iPod Touch, or Windows which supports Bluetooth 4.0 or newer.

Communication range is 20m when obstacle free.

In a slightly bizarre twist, users of the BM-1 can unlock extra features on KORG Gadget LE and KORG Module, including extra gadgets, tracks, sound programs and audio recording. This seemingly has nothing to do with the functionality of the Bluetooth MIDI connection and is just a perk.

Features

• Make your favorite gear wireless-ready
• Eliminate the hassle of MIDI cables
• Automatic pairing with various BLE-MIDI devices
• Flexible connection options for any setup
• Group multiple MIDI devices
• Unlock extra features in KORG Gadget LE and KORG Module
• No external power supply or batteries required
• Firmware updates via a dedicated app

Specifications

BluetoothConnectorsCompatible devicesSupported OSCommunication rangeFirmware updatesPower supplyPower consumptionDimensions (W x D x H)WeightIncluded itemsSoftware/driver

Bluetooth 5, MIDI over Bluetooth Low Energy-Compliant

MIDI IN, OUT (5-PIN DIN)

MIDI devices with 5-pin DIN OUT, Bluetooth MIDI controllers, Mac, iPhone/iPad/iPod Touch that supports Bluetooth 4.0 or later

Windows, macOS, iOS/iPadOS

20 m (when no obstacles are present)

Available via the KORG BM-1 App on iOS/iPadOS

Compatible with 5 V/3.3 V (via MIDI OUT)

37 mW

Main adapter: 57 x 21 x 21 mm/2.24″ x 0.83″ x 0.83″ / Sub adapter: 27 x 21 x 21 mm/1.06″ x 0.83″ x 0.83″

Main adapter: 12 g/0.42 oz / Sub adapter: 11 g/0.39 oz

Precautions / Dear Customer

KORG BM-1 App (iOS/iPadOS) / KORG Bluetooth MIDI Connect (Mac, iOS/iPadOS) / KORG BLE-MIDI Driver (Windows PC)