Monday, January 05, 2026

SiteTip: MiniMIDI.world, A simplified guide to TRS MIDI by @audionerd

If you’re diving into the world of hardware synths, drum machines, and (eurorack) modular gear, you’ve probably bumped into the confusing topic of MIDI connections over 3.5 mm mini-jacks.
Unlike traditional 5-pin DIN MIDI, many modern instruments use smaller TRS or TS jacks for MIDI signals but there’s no single universal wiring standard. 
Photo via ExpertSleepers

That means the same cable might work on one device and not at all on another. 
minimidi.world is made and maintained by Eric Skogen, aka “audionerd.”, a Minneapolis-based developer ,and exists to take the mystery out of this by offering a clear, practical breakdown of how these minijack MIDI connections work and which devices use which type, saving you from trial-and-error cable frustration. 

At the heart of the site is a simplified guide to TRS MIDI, explaining how MIDI’s three signal pins map to the Tip-Ring-Sleeve of a 3.5 mm plug.

Here you will find easy-to-follow diagrams and explanations of the most common Type A and Type B TRS standards (and the simpler TS variants), along with examples of manufacturers that use them.
This makes it much easier to understand why a cable works for a Korg device but not for an Arturia, and how to adapt or choose the right cable accordingly.

But minimidi.world doesn’t stop at theory, it also links to community-maintained device lists and GitHub data, encouraging users to contribute updates when they discover new gear or newer wiring quirks.
Whether you’re a synth enthusiast trying to patch together your setup, a gigging musician sorting cables backstage, or a DIY builder crafting custom MIDI interfaces, this site is a go-to resource to demystify minijack MIDI and keep your rig talking smoothly.

minimidi.world, A simplified guide to TRS MIDI by @audionerd

Also check out https://audionerd.com/
More about the MIDI standard: https://midi.org/
Top photo credit and more reference see this Expert Sleepers post on Flickr.








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