USB-MIDI note Frezzing

1

Description of the Issue

I am experiencing a repeatable problem with USB-MIDI on my Norand Mono MK2.
The unit is detected correctly by my computer and by my Ableton-DAW, and MIDI initially works normally.
However, the same issue happens every time:

Observed Behavior

  • When I start sending MIDI to the Mono MK2, it works for 3–4 notes.

  • After a few notes, the MIDI connection freezes:

    • No more notes are received by the Mono MK2.

    • The synth stops responding to all incoming MIDI data.

    • Sometimes the last note hangs, or sometimes it simply stops reacting altogether.

What I have already tested

    1. Multiple USB-C data cables (not charging-only cables)

    2. Different USB ports (USB-A, USB-C, directly on the computer, no hub)

    3. Different MIDI channels and settings

    4. Rebooted the Mono MK2 and the computer

    5. Tested on another Mac, with the exact same result

    6. Tested other USB-MIDI devices on the same setup => all other devices work perfectly, so the issue appears to be specific to the Mono MK2

The result is always the same:
MIDI works for a few notes and then completely stops.

Additional Information

  • Audio output works perfectly — only USB-MIDI is affected.

  • Awesome thing the MONO MK2, apart from the big problem for me.

2

Sorry to hear about these problems.

A few users have noted issues with USB MIDI, and some have indicated that its computer related, as the computer tries non MIDI operations (power save, for example) on the port. There are 4x USB ports on the back.. which ones have you tried for this? I assume all of them?

Long time user of mk2 here, but I ONLY use it with DIN MIDI, not USB MIDI

3

Thanks for the message. Unfortunately, I’m having the same problem with DIN MIDI. I’ve already tried various setups. Different power supplies, cables, and computers, but also without a computer. It always ends up the same. After restarting the mono, it works again for a short time. Powersport is powered by PD-Powered Supply and my USB hub is rated for 4A. I had EMC problems with the power supply that came with the device, but I replaced it. Unfortunately, that can’t be the problem… I also disconnected everything and only connected the Mac. Same problem… :confused:

4

Hmmmm.

Believe it or not, some people (myself included) have had issues with the formatting of the SD card. I only did this once when I first got it and used an off the shelf SD card.

  1. First, backup your files from the SD card if you want them for the future.
  2. Next, format the card with [PATTERN] + [RUN] while turning on the synth. Turn off the Norand and eject the SD card.
  3. Just to be safe, load the latest firmware on the SD card and boot with [PATTERN] + [RUN] which should reflash the firmware.

Again, sounds ridiculous, but it might help you. Similar problems existed on the mk1 until successful firmware update which was MUCH more complicated.

5

Also of note: when using USB MIDI, make sure only one program is accessing it at a time. Non-MIDI messages can lock it up.

6

Thanks for your help and input. I did it as you described, but unfortunately without success. DIN MIDI fails as soon as I change the octave, and USB MIDI fails after about 5 notes :confused:

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All other external devices that I control in exactly the same way work fine.