Connecting a device using MIDI THRU

[jharris01]

Hey guys. I just acquired a busted up Roland R-8 drum unit. I really mean it when I say it's busted up. A couple of pad buttons don't work anymore, and the MIDI IN port feels loose. Sometimes it doesn't connect at all. I have to jiggle the cable and hope for the best. I was wondering if I could still make use of it with the MIDI THRU port. Problem is that for my particular laptop setup I can't daisy chain it with another device. Is there a USB Midi hub or similar gadget I could use? I am not very knowledgeable of what's out there. Would appreciate if anyone could point me in the right direction.

Thank you for your time.

[Mau1wurf1977]

My understanding is that whatever you plug into Midi-in will come out through Midi-through. It allows you to connect another midi module without having to buy another midi interface.

e.g. it's a common scenario to hook up a MT-32 and a CM-32L and get the midi messages on the MT-32 while playing music on the both units and listening to whatever unit works better for whatever game / project you are running.

[jharris01]

Yes I got confused. Since it's already broken I will tinker with it when time permits.