Intro – An Overview of the WIDI Master
The CMEPRO WIDI Master is designed as a wireless MIDI solution that frees you from the traditional cable clutter. For bigger studios or even a smaller bedroom studio, wires can often be a big issue and if we’re being more frank: a unsightly pain in the ass. Nothing looks worse than a bunch of untamed wires running in every direction, and solutions like these promise to remedy that.
In my testing, which in full disclosure, consisted solely of using the device in a one-way transmission mode from MIDI Out to my laptop (as this is my use case and my reason for needing such a device), the unit proved to be an effective and reliable solution to a common studio nuisance.
While the WIDI series is versatile enough to be used in various configurations (including bidirectional MIDI communications between synthesizers, controllers, and computers), below are my thoughts after using it for my particular need.
Build Quality and Design
Small by design, and made to plug directly into a device’s 5 PIN MIDI port, the WIDI Master sports a compact design perfect for quick plug-and-play. Its form factor is well-suited for mounting or placement near your instruments, and its small size ensures it never gets in the way of a crowded studio space. Housed in a plastic construction, surrounding the metal 5-pin MIDI jack, the device felt solid and plugged into my MIDI keyboard with no looseness, ensuring a snug and safe fit.
Now, let me be clear, I’m not a big fan of wires to begin with, so this was a welcome change.
As an animal lover, my home studio is home to two very curious and often mischievous kittens. Their fondness for attempting to chew on any wires they find has made a wireless solution like the WIDI Master particularly appealing. It minimizes the risk of damage and keeps the workspace clutter-free. The less time I have to gently shoo my kittens away from wires while making music or recording content, the better.
Setup and Ease of Use
One of the best features of the WIDI Master that makes it so easy to recommend is its simple plug-and-play functionality. On my Mac, setting it up was straightforward: I connected it to my device’s MIDI Out, and it automatically was discoverable via my laptop’s Bluetooth receiver. In less than 30 seconds, I was ready to go in my DAW, and the MIDI controller was detected and sending notes. There was no need for extensive configuration or software tweaking.
Reducing my clutter and giving me that option without creating headaches to transmit the Bluetooth signal was a wonderful thing.
Performance in the Home Studio
In terms of transmitting MIDI data, the WIDI Master performed admirably. As my goal was to use MIDI controllers with fewer wires, I tested it by sending a range of MIDI commands—from note messages to more complex control changes—all to my laptop running a digital audio workstation (DAW).
Latency and Reliability
Of course, the primary concern with adopting any wireless system into your studio is the potential for latency issues. Any noticeable lag between the controller input and the output response could severely impact both performance and recording sessions. Therefore, unless a wireless option feels smooth and instantaneous, it would be hard for us to recommend it as a feasible 1:1 replacement for a good old-fashioned direct connection.
Thankfully, this is one case where the marketing materials were accurate. In all of our tests, WIDI Master demonstrated virtually imperceptible and impressively low latency. Whether I was playing a synthesizer line or triggering samples in real time, the responsiveness was smooth and immediate. Score one for kitten proofing and fewer wires.
Interference and Range:
Operating in my home studio environment, which can sometimes have sources of wireless interference, the WIDI Master maintained a robust connection. As a test, I walked out of the room and could still hear notes being triggered despite the distance and structural interference. The reliability in even these unorthodox situations makes it easy for me to say that for most home studio environments, where distances are going to be far more modest, the product will exceed expectations.
Other Potential Uses
While my testing was limited to using the device on the MIDI Out line, it’s worth noting that the WIDI Master is designed for versatility:
• Bidirectional MIDI Communication: It can function both as a transmitter and as a receiver, opening up the possibility for more interactive performance setups.
• Integration with Synthesizers and Controllers: Its compact size and ease of integration make it an excellent candidate for live setups where reducing the number of physical cables can streamline the performance.
• Studio and Live Applications: The unit’s small size, portability, and quick pairing make it equally at home on the studio desk or in a live rig.
Conclusion
The CMEPRO WIDI Master stands out as a compelling solution for those looking to eliminate the clutter and hazards of physical MIDI cables in a home studio environment. In my testing:
• Performance was consistently reliable with extremely low latency, and solid transmission even when put to the test in less probable or unorthodox situations.
• Setup was simple and intuitive, ensuring that it was as easy as plug, connect, and go.
• The small design and wireless functionality further enhance its appeal by addressing common issues such as cable damage and clutter.
For anyone working in a home studio, the CMEPRO WIDI Master is a product that not only meets professional performance standards but also offers practical benefits in everyday use.
This wireless MIDI solution is an excellent addition to any modern home studio, and we highly recommend it. It performs exactly as advertised, and at only 60 dollars it’s easy to justify getting a few of these for a better overall experience.
If you’re tired of a cluttered studio environment, Altwire recommends this as the perfect solution to declutter and keep your little wire chewers at bay. Sorry kitties.
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