Confusing Port Numbering on the MOTU MIDI Express 128

[sumitsimlai]

Hello everyone.

I recently purchased two of MOTU MIDI Express 128, which states 8 inputs 9 outputs i.e. a total of 17 I/Os, However when I look at the unit, I see a strange numbering system:

- MIDI Input ports 1 to 7 on rear panel
- MIDI output ports 1 to 8 on rear panel, and
- MIDI input port 8 and output port 8 on front panel.

Why is the Output port no. 8 repeated, instead of calling it no. 9? and what is the purpose of having two output ports with the same number? The digital LEDs anyway show up to no. 8 and there's no number 9 port there.

As a wild guess, I was thinking that perhaps the rear output port no. 8 might be used to connect the MIDI Express 128 to a second MIDI Express 128 - but is that even possible, and is that the reason for the duplication?

Can someone point me to the answer please?

Sorry for sounding childish though.

[CharlzS]

Having port 8 I/O on the front and the O on the back is to allow easy access to the ports for the odd device that you don't need a permanent connection. The output should be mirrored.

[monkey man]

Exachary mate.

Convenient plug-and-play.