The original USB2CMI interface got a major update in 2025. It transitioned to the modern controller Teensy 4.1 which allows it to implement advanced features and provide sustained supply for the new BOM. This also resulted in the lower price of the assembled unit due to part availability. The original USB2CMI is available until it's sold out and has its own distinctive look. The USB2CMI4.1 project originates from USB2CMI and is maintained exclusively by Deftaudio.
USB2CMI 4.1 features:
USB keyboard and mouse interface for Fairlight CMI (mouse is only for Series III).
MIDI interface for CMI. Includes USB MIDI and DIN5 MIDI IN/OUT.
OLED screen to show a voice name (duplicates the message on a Music Keyboard)
Pass thru mode, can co-exist with original PREH, Alphanumeric and Music Keyboard hardware.
MIDI and USB LEDs to show the activity.
Ability for standalone operation with Music Keyboard without CMI connected (keyboard has to be powered externally).
Debug mode to test key presses of CMI input devices.
There are two operating modes for USB2CMI 4.1 that are based on what hardware it’s connected too:
In Series I/II/IIx mode
Allows any USB class compliant keyboard to be used to simulate alpha numeric keyboard for Series I/II/IIx.
No USB mouse support in this mode. NO LIGHT PEN emulation - this is not feasible for this type of the interface. Refer to another product - USB lightpen interface for Series I/II/IIx to be available in spring 2025.
Supports MIDI input (DIN5 and USB) and emulates music keyboard commands (within limitations of original music keyboard for velocity levels). This allows pre-MIDI CMI (such as Series I and II) to be controlled by MIDI messages (NOTE ON/OFF and MIDI CC) without a special MIDI card.
Supports MIDI output (DIN5 and USB) for CMI Music Keyboard. This means that the data which is sent by Music Keyboard is converted to MIDI messages (NOTE ON/OFF for all keys and key matrix on the right as well as MIDI CC for controllers on the left). This allows using a Music Keyboard with any other MIDI gear or synth modules. This doesn’t enable CMI to send the MIDI data from PAGE-R sequencer, it’s only what’s played live on the Music Keyboard.
Ability to be plugged directly into Q032 of Series I/II or Q133 of Series IIx (special cable and external power needed) to simulate Alphanumeric and Music Keyboard for testing purposes.
Allows Series III Music Keyboard to be used in Series I/II/IIx.
Pass thru mode, can coexist with original Alphanumeric and Music Keyboard hardware
In Series III mode
Allows USB keyboard and mouse to simulate PREH keyboard (including G-pad). Have to use a keyboard with a built-in USB hub and port for a mouse (such as Apple USB keyboards) or a separate USB hub.
Supports MIDI input (DIN5 and USB) to emulate music keyboard commands. MIDI input is merged with a Music Keyboard. This effectively allows an extra MIDI input on Series III PORT D. MIDI input data is merged with the Music Keyboard MIDI data.
Supports MIDI output (DIN5 and USB) for CMI Music Keyboard including key presses NOTE ON/OFF, Pitchband, slides and ModWheel via MIDI CC as well as a matrix keyboard on the right via MIDI ON/OFF messages.
Allows Series I/II/IIx Music Keyboard to be used in Series III (still limited to original music keyboard 16 velocity levels).
Ability to be plugged directly into Q133 (special cable and external power needed) to simulate PREH keyboard for testing purposes (No MIDI in this configuration).
Pass thru mode, can coexist with original Alphanumeric and Music Keyboard hardware
Can coexist with MFX keyboard as well for MFX upgraded systems or have MFX keyboard plugged into USB2CMI (special cable needed).
You'll receive: 1. USB2CMI box fully assembled and tested 2. 9 pin cable to CMI.
