Connections
Physical ports on the tbd 16.
Audio
| Port | Type | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Stereo Line In | TRS 3.5 mm | Sample external audio, run through effects |
| Stereo Line Out | TRS 3.5 mm | Main output for monitors, mixer, or external gear |
| Headphone Out | TRS 3.5 mm | Dedicated headphone output with its own volume wheel |
All three are on the right side of the device.
MIDI
Four independent MIDI connections are available. All TRS MIDI jacks follow the TRS Type-A standard — no adapters needed for standard MIDI cables.
| Port | Details |
|---|---|
| TRS MIDI 1 In / Out | Standard 5-pin-equivalent MIDI over TRS |
| TRS MIDI 2 In / Out | Standard MIDI. MIDI 2 In doubles as an analog Clock/Reset input for Eurorack sync — a switch on the bottom of the case selects between MIDI and Clock/Reset modes. |
| USB Host MIDI | USB-A port — connect class-compliant USB MIDI controllers (Launchpad, Launchkey, etc.). Provides up to 500 mA to the connected device. Multiple devices supported via a USB hub. See External Controllers for supported models. |
| USB Device MIDI | USB-C port — the tbd 16 appears as a USB MIDI device to your computer. Shares the same USB-C cable used for power. |
Each port’s behaviour (notes only, clock only, both, or disabled) is configured in Project & Settings → MIDI Settings.
USB
The tbd 16 has four USB ports:
| Port | Function |
|---|---|
| USB-C (primary) | Power, USB MIDI to a computer, and the web interface over USB network |
| USB-C (secondary) | Additional power, development |
| USB-C (front panel) | Debug / firmware flashing |
| USB-A | Host port for class-compliant USB MIDI devices |
USB Network (NCM)
Over the primary USB-C port, the tbd 16 also provides a network connection to your computer — you can open the WebUI in a browser without connecting to WiFi. See WiFi Settings.
WiFi
Built-in WiFi for:
- The WebUI — open the docs address in a browser on your computer or phone
- Ableton Link — wireless tempo and transport sync with Ableton Live and other Link-capable apps
Configured in Project & Settings → WiFi Settings.
SD Card
A microSD card slot on the bottom of the device holds all project data, kits, presets, and samples. Projects persist across power cycles.
Power the device off before removing or inserting the SD card.
Power
The tbd 16 is powered over USB-C (5 V). Any standard USB-C power supply, USB battery pack, or computer USB port works.