With current versions of FreeMIDI, it is possible to encounter problems scanning the serial port with an original MOTU MIDI Express. The symptom will be that FreeMIDI Setup correctly identifies a MIDI Express when scanning, however, when checking port connections (MIDI menu), MIDI data doesn’t cablize to the correct MIDI port. In addition, you may notice the front panel of the MIDI Express has set itself to the “Studio 3 Mode” factory preset.

This problem happens as a result of a FreeMIDI Driver naming scheme. Here’s how to remedy the problem: 1) Quit FreeMIDI Setup, 2) Open the System Folder: FreeMIDI Folder and locate the Studio 4 Driver, 3) drag the Studio 4 Driver into the trash (and empty), or drag the Studio 4 Driver to the Desktop, 4) restart the computer, 5) hard reset the MIDI Express by holding down the Panic button while powering up the MIDI Express, 6) launch FreeMIDI Setup and open the Update Interfaces window (Configuration menu), 7) set the serial port to “None” and OK the window, 8) reopen the Update Interfaces window and scan the serial port. OK the Update Interfaces window.

At this stage, the MIDI Express should be correctly identified in FreeMIDI Setup. Additionally, the front panel of the MIDI Express should reflect the default Factory Preset, “Sequencer 96.” Check Connections will correctly cablize to the appropriate port.