The ESX-8MD MK2 is an expansion module for the ES-4, ES-40 or ES-5, adding eight MIDI/DINsync outputs from one expansion header.

The ES-4/5 Controller software (part of Expert Sleepers Silent Way) allows the ESX-8MD outputs to be used for MIDI output (note – not just MIDI clock output, but as an actual MIDI port, capable of sending any MIDI messages). Since these outputs are driven from an audio connection, they have sample-accurate timing, which no USB MIDI interface can claim.

The Silent Way Sync plug-in would typically be used to send DINsync to the ESX-8MD, though any software capable of addressing the ES-4/5’s expansion headers, via Silent Way or the Max/MSP external, can send clock pulses to it.

Specifications

The ESX-8MD’s specifications are as follows:

• Panel width: 10HP
• Module depth: 27mm
• Digital input: connection from ES-4, ES-40 or ES-5 module
• Outputs: 8 5-pin DIN sockets, wired for both MIDI and DINsync
  • Each channel is wired individually for MIDI (8 simultaneous outputs)
  • Channels are wired in pairs for DINsync (4 simultaneous outputs, each duplicated on two sockets)
• Indicators: 1 LED per channel indicating activity
• Current draw: 23mA on the +12V rail, 0mA on the -12V rail (12mA total)

The front panel is drilled for both Doepfer and Analogue Systems mounting holes (using a ‘slot’ rather than a single round hole). The power connector is a Doepfer standard 10 way IDC, with -12V furthest from the top of the board.