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INTRODUCTION
IXO is a simple, functional utility module that can help you access the MIDI and I2C
capabilities of other Eurorack modules, using 3.5mm TRS cables.
IXO is a cousin of our popular MIDIXO TRS MIDI breakout module.
Like MIDIXO, it can serve as a TRS MIDI breakout for lots of Expert Sleepers modules (like
disting mk4, disting EX, FH-2, ES-9, and General CV) and some other modules as well (like
the SDS Accord Melisma and SDS Sequarallel). Unlike its cousin, IXO also includes a
separate port that gives you access to the I2C protocol on modules like ER-301, disting
EX, and Teletype. It makes a great interface between those modules and controllers like
the 16n faderbank as well, giving you access to all those parameters through physical
faders – using either MIDI or I2C or even both at the same time.
FUNCTIONS
This module has two main functions:
1. By using the included 4-pin ribbon cable, IXO can extend modules like disting mk4,
disting EX, FH-2, General CV, ES-9, and some others – essentially adding MIDI input
and MIDI output jacks to those modules. The polarity on the input and output MIDI
jacks are each independently switchable to allow maximum compatibility with
your other gear.
2. By using included 3-pin ribbon cable, IXO adds an I2C jack to modules that use
that protocol, such as disting EX, ER-301, and Teletype.
You might connect all three of the ports to one module (eg: disting EX) to allow access to
both MIDI and I2C simultaneously. Or you could decide to use one IXO with multiple
modules. For example, by placing it between your disting mk4 and your disting EX, you
could use the IXO MIDI ports with the disting mk4 and the I2C port with the disting EX!
MIDI TRS
For as long as we can remember, MIDI has travelled over 5-pin DIN cables. Recently,
manufacturers of Eurorack-compatible gear have wanted to move to the slimmer, more
familiar, 3.5 mm cabling that we all know and love. But without a standard to guide them,
two kinds of MIDI over 3.5 mm TRS cables have appeared: MIDI TRS A and MIDI TRS B. If
you’ve got gear from Make Noise, Akai, or Korg, it works one way. Novation and Arturia do
it the other way. By using the polarity switches near the MIDI jacks on IXO, you can
essentially ignore this A vs B issue: if your module doesn’t seem to be sending or
receiving MIDI, you can just flip the appropriate switch! (Having the switch in the wrong
orientation will not cause any damage.)
