Smidy Free V3.0 Beta brings MIDI 2.0 and MIDI-CI to Windows

Frank Rittberger has released Smidy Free V3.0 Beta, a new version of his Windows MIDI sequencer and analysis toolbox. The update focuses on the next generation of the MIDI protocol. It adds extensive support for MIDI 2.0, Universal MIDI Packets (UMP) and MIDI-CI. Moreover, the software targets musicians, developers and MIDI enthusiasts who want to look beyond the surface of MIDI data.

MIDI 2.0 and MIDI-CI in one workspace

Smidy combines MIDI playback, editing and detailed event inspection in a single workspace. In addition, version 3.0 introduces support for MIDI 2.0 UMP messages, MIDI-CI Discovery and Profile messages, as well as MIDI-CI Property Exchange. MIDI 2.0 endpoints appear alongside traditional WinMM/MME devices. As a result, users can assign both worlds to tracks without switching between different workflows. The software also maintains MIDI 2.0 data at its native high resolution internally. When using MIDI 2.0 outputs, the data is sent at the appropriate resolution.

Semantic SysEx and Property Exchange

Beyond the new protocol layer, Smidy offers a semantic approach to SysEx. Supported messages from Roland GS, the Integra-7, Yamaha XG and Universal MIDI are displayed in meaningful terms. Furthermore, the tool can decode MIDI-CI communication, from Discovery inquiries to Property Exchange, while keeping the original SysEx data visible in the event stream. Media types defined by the MIDI Association, including images, can be dropped directly into Property Exchange data. In the upcoming Full version, this media can also be exported.

Features

• MIDI 2.0 UMP message support
• MIDI-CI Discovery and Profile messages
• MIDI-CI Property Exchange
• MIDI 2.0 SysEx and detailed MIDI message analysis
• MUID handling and editing
• Detailed SysEx editing and inspection
• MIDI 1.0 and MIDI 2.0 workflows
• VST3 plug-in support

A real tool, not a trial

Smidy Free is designed as a fully usable MIDI tool rather than a crippled demo. Users can import MIDI files, record incoming MIDI data, edit events and export their work. Editing functions include cutting event ranges, shifting pitch or key, and splitting material by MIDI channel. However, some advanced functions remain reserved for the commercial Smidy Full version. These include Change Event Type, Change MIDI Channel, VST3/Wave downmixing and separate export functions for Property Exchange data.

Time-limited beta

There is one important limitation. The beta relies on Microsoft’s pre-release Windows MIDI Services components. Therefore, it is not intended for production use. In addition, Smidy Free will stop starting after November 30, 2026. A commercial version is planned once the underlying Microsoft MIDI 2.0 technology reaches final availability.

Price
Free (Windows, beta until November 30, 2026)

More info: Frank Rittberger | Smidy Free V3.0 Beta