MIDI Express XT (pre 2012) on Intel Mac- Yosemite

[baron von fancypants]

Hi everyone,

I've just recently updated my OS to Yosemite (from 10.6).
I haven't done any sequencing since I upgraded my computer from a PowerPC G4 to a MacPro 5,1 several years ago... haven't had an opportunity... was a new parent...
Anyway, I now have a little more time and I tried setting up my studio with my new computer, but found out that my old MIDI Express XT would no longer work with my Intel MacPro. Apparently it doesn't have the chip set needed, though the device IS seen under Audio/MIDI set-up- and I can test my drum machine.

Has anyone tried sequencing (and had success) with the old MIDI Express XT on a similar configuration?:

MacPro 5,1
OS 10.10.5
MIDI Express XT USB (pre 2012)
MOTU 828 MkII FW
Digital Performer 9.0.1

Should I just scrap (or try to sell) the old Express XT and get a new one? If so, does anyone know where I can buy an inexpensive used model? Money's very tight.

Also, what would the major differences (and drawbacks) be between the Express XT and the Express 128?
Thanks in advance for any info!

[mikehalloran]

This doesn't sound right. Generally, MOTU MIDI devices work with Intel Macs or they don't.

What is the firmware version of yours?

[baron von fancypants]

According to MOTU Tech support, the version of my MIDI Express XT predates the chip I need to communicate with Intel Macs. Therefore the most up to date firmware, 3.0.28, wouldn't (and couldn't) apply.
However, the way that was worded, made it sound like there was a chance that it could work, but it wouldn't be supported.
I've never done any sequencing on my Intel Mac because of the reasons listed above; so the last time I used my MIDI Express for sequencing was on my PowerPC G4.
From the bit of research I've done, it looks like some people are able to get their's to work, but (in some cases) in a limited capacity (not fully polyphonic/poly-instrumental, major latency issues, no Clockworks syncing, etc.)
I think I just have to accept the fact that I need to upgrade my MIDI Express XT to a newer version.
Hopefully I don't need to update my 828 MKII as well!

[mikehalloran]

Ok, that makes more sense. The older MOTU MIDI boxes have the firmware burned in. MOTU stopped selling the upgrade chips in 2012 and they are no longer available from any source.

Used units are easy to find. You want firmware 2.01 to guarantee compatibility with Intel Macs. On eBay, make certain that you get a screen shot showing the firmware version. Compatible MTP-AV USB units show up all the time.

Your 828mkII shouldn't have a problem. Mine doesn't.

[apanacci]

Hey guys, is it the combination of OS and Firmware or just Firmware. Mine is old and works on my MacPro but I am at 10.9.5.

[baron von fancypants]

My understanding is that it's a chip in the MIDI Express unit itself that allows it to communicate with the Intel Mac (and then the firmware upgrade).
If your's works, I'm assuming that it has the chip upgrade.