Kenton has announced MidiStream, a complete wireless MIDI system.

MidiStream is primarily intended to be used in a live gig situation where it can free the live performer from the constraints of a MIDI cable. It is ideal for use with a portable keyboard such as the AX-1 or AX-7, or for use with electronic wind controllers such as the WX-5 WX-7 or indeed an portable MIDI instrument, electronic drums, accordion etc. Another ideal application is to link a front-of-house MIDI sound or lighting desk to on-stage equipment.

MidiStream has been designed specifically to address the problems unique to MIDI data transfer. It combines a high data rate with extremely low latency and low dropout rate. Should dropouts occur due to going out of range or interference from other sources, MidiStream is designed to handle these events without leaving notes stuck on.

The transmitter is a cigarette packet sized unit, with a small aerial, an on-off switch, a MIDI input socket and is powered from a 9 volt battery. The receiver is a free standing diversity unit (two aerials to maximise reception) and is powered from the mains via a small plug-top power supply. It has 4 status LEDs, an on-off switch and a MIDI out socket. The whole system has an extremely low latency of 2mS which is imperceptible to humans. Range is at least 80 metres (260 feet) outdoors in ideal conditions, or 30 metres indoors.

MidiStream handles ALL MIDI data on ALL MIDI channels, including clock, sysex etc., so whatever MIDI you put into the MIDI In of the transmitter pack, appears at the MIDI Out of the receiver unit. It warns you of a low battery in the transmitter unit by blinking an LED on both the transmitter and the receiver.

MidiStream is now also available in a version suitable for use in the USA. Note that due to different frequency allocations in the USA, these units have to work on 914.5MHz, which is a different frequency from the UK/EU versions. There is no fundamental difference in the models except for the frequency of operation.

Additional information is available at the Kenton site.