X-Fi cards and MIDI out

[apeman]

Hi...

I currently have an Audigy 2 ZS which comes with an actual MIDI/Game port. I have been thinking of upgrading to one of the X-Fi models... but it hasn't been easy trying to figure out what MIDI connectivity they come with.
For example, many cards such as the XtremeMusic have a port that might look like a Game/MIDI port, but isn't in fact one.

All that leaves is trying for some of the models that come with a breakout box that has two DIN-style MIDI ports, or.... to use a USB to MIDI adapter, as I have seen some folks on here do. Of course, that might bring about additional issues...

Are those my only options? Or is there an X-Fi model out there that has MIDI connectivity?

Thanks for any responses

[Great Hierophant]

If you purchase an X-Fi with the mini-DIN midi ports, they should come with adapters for the full-size DIN midi connectors.  The only difficulty should be selecting the right output in Windows so that the midi goes to an external device and not a soundfont.  Since none of the X-Fis come with a gameport/midi connector, you must find one that comes with a X-Fi I/O Drive X-Fi I/O Console.  These retail products do come with it :

X-Fi Fatal1ty
X-Fi Elite Pro
X-Fi Platinum
X-Fi Platinum Fatal1ty Champion Series

other cards can support a Console and/or Drive, but do not come with it.  But that is it for the X-Fi series.  Unless your heart is set on this midi, I would suggest a USB to MIDI adapter.  Also, the Auzen X-Fi Prelude 7.1 has a daughtercard called the Auzen X-Tension DIN which provides for midi in and out.  Roland's USB to MIDI adapters seem particularly reliable, I use one myself.

[apeman]

Thanks, Hierophant. Seems like there really are no X-Fi cards with built-in MIDI ports anymore. I guess I could go for the I/O box route - I like the idea of a dedicated breakout box like the Elite Pro had. That won't be cheap though... I think for now I'm going to stick with my Audigy 2 - there aren't any pressing reasons for me to upgrade.

Cheers,
Apeman

[endre1952]

I get MIDI output under Win7 67-bit with my Auzentech X-Plosion card, but an additional MIDI bracket was needed. I'm actually using what used to be a Scart RGB output bracket for the Real Magic MPEG-2 decoder card. Apparently, the pinout is the same.