The Rocktron MIDI Xchange is a low-cost portable MIDI footswitch with what Rocktron calls "SMART CONTROLLERS". It is a simple to use, yet multi-functional MIDI switcher that not only controls Rocktron products, but other MIDI switchable products as well. Rocktron positions it as a way to make MIDI control easier and more affordable, sitting below larger controllers like the Rocktron MIDI Mate, Rocktron MIDI Raider and Rocktron All Access in the company's line of MIDI foot controllers.1
The controls
Preset selection is straightforward: you may either press the RECALL switch to select preset "1" or use the UP and DOWN buttons to select the desired preset number.12
| Control | What it does |
|---|---|
| UP and DOWN buttons | Select the desired preset number2 |
| RECALL switch | Selects the chosen preset, or preset "1" directly1 |
| Power switch | Turns the MIDI Xchange on or off1 |
| CC17 port | Default volume controller for all Rocktron products1 |
| CC7 port | Default volume controller for most non-Rocktron products1 |
| Two expression ports | Accept up to two Rocktron HEX expression/volume controllers1 |
The two SMART CONTROLLER PORTS are the heart of the design. The CC17 port is the default volume controller for all Rocktron products, while the CC7 port is the default volume controller for most non-Rocktron products, so an expression pedal plugged into the right port sends volume messages in the format the connected gear expects.1
Power
The MIDI Xchange runs on a 9-volt battery, as well as external power, and a power switch is provided to turn on or off the MIDI Xchange. It is also phantom powerable through select Rocktron processors and amplifiers, which can save a cable run and a power supply at the footswitch when used with compatible Rocktron gear.1
Phantom power works only through select Rocktron processors and amplifiers, so with other makers' MIDI gear you will need the battery or an external power supply.1
Where it fits
For a player whose rig is built around a Rocktron processor or amplifier, the MIDI Xchange covers preset changes and volume control in a small footprint. Players needing more switches, loops or displays can look at Rocktron's larger controllers such as the MIDI Mate or MIDI Raider, or at loop switchers like the PatchMate Loop 8 and PatchMate Loop 8 Floor. For more on how foot controllers like this work, see MIDI Pedals1.
Questions
Does the Rocktron MIDI Xchange run on a battery?
Yes. Rocktron says the MIDI Xchange runs on a 9-volt battery as well as external power, and a power switch is provided to turn the unit on or off. It can also be phantom powered through select Rocktron processors and amplifiers, which lets you run it over the MIDI connection without a separate supply at the footswitch.
Can the MIDI Xchange control non-Rocktron gear?
Yes. Rocktron describes the MIDI Xchange as a simple to use, yet multi-functional MIDI switcher that not only controls Rocktron products, but other MIDI switchable products as well. The CC7 port is the default volume controller for most non-Rocktron products, while the CC17 port serves that role for all Rocktron products.
What is the CC7 port for?
The MIDI Xchange has two SMART CONTROLLER PORTS labeled CC17 and CC7. The CC7 port is the default volume controller for most non-Rocktron products, so plugging an expression pedal there sends MIDI CC7 volume messages to gear from other makers. The CC17 port is the default volume controller for all Rocktron products.
How many expression pedals can connect to the MIDI Xchange?
Two built-in expression ports allow you to plug in up to two Rocktron HEX expression/volume controllers. These work alongside the two SMART CONTROLLER PORTS labeled CC17 and CC7, which handle volume control duties for Rocktron and non-Rocktron products respectively.
Sources (2)
- Rocktron, Rocktron, 2024-09-24
- MIDI Xchange Foot Controller, Rocktron, 2024-08-28
