This item ships directly from Midi Solutions in Canada. Please be aware it can take few extra days for Customs clearance but normally is pretty fast.
The MIDI Solutions R8 8-output MIDI-controlled Relay Array contains eight relays which can be programmed to open or close in response to MIDI events.
Event types are programmable and include:
Fast reed relays are used for a response time of less than 2 ms. Relay contacts are rated at 500 mA. Contacts are made available via connections at the tip and sleeve of 1/4" mono phone jacks. When switching inductive loads be aware of precautions that must be taken to avoid back EMF problems.
The R8 is programmed by sending it MIDI System Exclusive messages (read the Programming FAQs for more details). This is easily done with the MIDI Solutions Programming Tools software. Once programmed, the R8's settings are retained even after power is removed. The R8 can be reprogrammed with new settings as often as needed.
The R8 is MIDI-powered, and requires no batteries or power supply to operate with most MIDI products (for more information read the Power FAQs). A MIDI indicator LED lights up when the product is powered and flashes when MIDI data passes through it.
Weight: 2 kg (4.4 lb)
Dimensions: 483 x 171 x 44 mm (19" x 6.75" x 1.75")
How can I use the Midisolutions R8 Relay on my live show?
One of the easiest ways to use the MIDI Solutions R8 Relay is to set it up to respond to a Note or Control Change message. The relay can then be activated by an operation as simple as hitting a key on the keyboard or depressing a footswitch that is configured to send a Control Change message. If the key or footswitch movements are recorded into a sequencer, the sequence can later be replayed and the relay will respond exactly as recorded.
The R8 Relay can also be programmed to respond to Program Change messages. This can be useful for controlling non-MIDI devices while cycling through program changes during a live performance. For example, consider a setup that uses a MIDI pedal board to send program changes to an effects unit. Add to this a guitar amp that allows the routing of its signal to be switched via a 1/4" footswitch input, but not via MIDI. The relay can be connected directly to the footswitch input of the guitar amp to control it as program changes occur, placing this non-MIDI device under MIDI control. With both the effects unit and the guitar amp responding to program change messages sent by the MIDI pedal board, it is now possible to create customized effects that combine both of these products.
Another type of MIDI message that the R8 Relay can be programmed to respond to is System Exclusive, including MIDI Show Control and MIDI Machine Control messages such as transport commands from devices like digital audio recorders or sequencers. For example the relay could be configured to close in response to a MIDI Machine Control Play message, and open in response to a MIDI Machine Control Stop message. The relay output could then be used to control an external device, such as an indicator light.
Elizondo Music is a factory authorized dealer and makes you eligible for full factory warranty.