How long is the Boss BMIDI-PB3 cable?

The BMIDI-PB3 is 3 feet or 1 metre in length. This makes it suitable for routing signals between adjacent pedals or across a medium-sized pedalboard.

What makes the connectors on this cable unique?

The connectors feature a custom three-way multi-directional design. This allows the user to adjust and lock the angle of the cable to optimize space on a crowded pedalboard.

What kind of wire is used in the Boss BMIDI-PB3?

The cable is constructed using high-quality oxygen-free copper (OFC) wire. This material is chosen for its combination of flexibility and signal integrity.

Is this cable compatible with non-Boss equipment?

Yes, it is compatible with any device that features a standard 5-pin MIDI I/O. While optimized for Boss 500 series and ES switchers, it works with all standard MIDI gear.

Does the BMIDI-PB3 help with signal noise?

Yes, the design focuses on delivering a clean signal while reducing unwanted noise. The quality of the oxygen-free copper wire and shielding helps maintain data integrity.

Can I lock the cable angle once I have set it?

Yes, the multi-directional design allows you to move the cable to your preferred position and then lock it in place. This ensures it stays secure during transport and performance.

Is the cable jacket flexible or stiff?

The cable features an incredibly flexible design. This allows it to be easily routed around other pedals and through tight spaces on a board.

How many pins does the connector have?

The BMIDI-PB3 uses a standard 5-pin MIDI configuration. It is designed for traditional MIDI ports rather than 3.5mm TRS MIDI ports.

What is the typical price for this cable in the UK?

The typical price range for the Boss BMIDI-PB3 is approximately GBP 22. This reflects its specialized adjustable housing and high-grade internal materials.

Is this cable suitable for DMX lighting applications?

While it has 5 pins, it is specifically designed for MIDI data. For lighting, a dedicated DMX cable like the Adam Hall 5-pin DMX cable is generally recommended due to different impedance requirements.

Can this cable be used with the Boss ES-8 switching system?

Yes, the BMIDI-PB3 is specifically mentioned by the manufacturer as being compatible with the ES-8 and ES-5 switching systems. Its space-saving design is ideal for these dense I/O units.

Why would I choose this over a cheaper straight MIDI cable?

The main benefit is the adjustable angle which prevents strain on the device's MIDI ports and saves significant space on a pedalboard. Cheaper straight cables often stick out too far for compact setups.

Gear article

Boss BMIDI-PB3 Adjustable MIDI Cable

The Boss BMIDI-PB3 is a high-quality 1-metre (3ft) MIDI cable designed specifically for pedalboard optimisation and complex signal routing. It features a unique three-way adjustable connector that allows users to lock the cable angle into the most efficient position for their specific gear layout.

Boss BMIDI-PB3 3ft/1m MIDI Cable with Adjustable Cable Angle

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Background and Design

The Boss BMIDI-PB3 was developed to address the spatial constraints commonly encountered by musicians using MIDI-enabled effects pedals and switching systems. Traditional MIDI cables often feature bulky, straight connectors that protrude significantly from the rear or sides of equipment, making tight pedalboard arrangements difficult. The BMIDI-PB3 addresses this with a custom low-profile housing.

Technical Features

The primary innovation of the BMIDI-PB3 is its multi-directional design. The connector can be adjusted and locked into three distinct positions, allowing the cable to exit the jack at the angle most suited to the user's setup. Internally, the cable utilizes oxygen-free copper (OFC) wire, which is selected for its flexibility and durability. The construction is designed to provide a clean signal path while actively reducing unwanted electromagnetic noise.

Studiospares Standard XLR (M) - XLR (F) Cable 60cm

Compatibility

While the cable is optimized for the BOSS 500 series pedals and the ES-5 and ES-8 effects switching systems, it maintains universal compatibility. It can be used with any device featuring standard 5-pin MIDI I/O ports, including synthesizers, drum machines, and audio interfaces. The flexible jacket makes it particularly useful for routing through the narrow gaps found in modern pedalboard frames.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to standard MIDI cables like those offered by Studiospares or budget utility brands, the BMIDI-PB3 occupies a premium price point due to its mechanical adjustability. While simple 5-pin cables offer basic connectivity, they lack the space-saving multi-angle housing. It serves a different purpose than specialized cables like the Adam Hall 5-pin DMX cable, which is designed for lighting, or standard instrument cables such as the Ernie Ball P06049, focusing instead on high-density MIDI data routing.

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Frequently asked questions

How long is the Boss BMIDI-PB3 cable?: The BMIDI-PB3 is 3 feet or 1 metre in length. This makes it suitable for routing signals between adjacent pedals or across a medium-sized pedalboard.
What makes the connectors on this cable unique?: The connectors feature a custom three-way multi-directional design. This allows the user to adjust and lock the angle of the cable to optimize space on a crowded pedalboard.
What kind of wire is used in the Boss BMIDI-PB3?: The cable is constructed using high-quality oxygen-free copper (OFC) wire. This material is chosen for its combination of flexibility and signal integrity.
Is this cable compatible with non-Boss equipment?: Yes, it is compatible with any device that features a standard 5-pin MIDI I/O. While optimized for Boss 500 series and ES switchers, it works with all standard MIDI gear.
Does the BMIDI-PB3 help with signal noise?: Yes, the design focuses on delivering a clean signal while reducing unwanted noise. The quality of the oxygen-free copper wire and shielding helps maintain data integrity.
Can I lock the cable angle once I have set it?: Yes, the multi-directional design allows you to move the cable to your preferred position and then lock it in place. This ensures it stays secure during transport and performance.
Is the cable jacket flexible or stiff?: The cable features an incredibly flexible design. This allows it to be easily routed around other pedals and through tight spaces on a board.
How many pins does the connector have?: The BMIDI-PB3 uses a standard 5-pin MIDI configuration. It is designed for traditional MIDI ports rather than 3.5mm TRS MIDI ports.
What is the typical price for this cable in the UK?: The typical price range for the Boss BMIDI-PB3 is approximately GBP 22. This reflects its specialized adjustable housing and high-grade internal materials.
Is this cable suitable for DMX lighting applications?: While it has 5 pins, it is specifically designed for MIDI data. For lighting, a dedicated DMX cable like the Adam Hall 5-pin DMX cable is generally recommended due to different impedance requirements.
Can this cable be used with the Boss ES-8 switching system?: Yes, the BMIDI-PB3 is specifically mentioned by the manufacturer as being compatible with the ES-8 and ES-5 switching systems. Its space-saving design is ideal for these dense I/O units.
Why would I choose this over a cheaper straight MIDI cable?: The main benefit is the adjustable angle which prevents strain on the device's MIDI ports and saves significant space on a pedalboard. Cheaper straight cables often stick out too far for compact setups.