Set up the XIAO ESP32-C3 SAM2695 MIDI synthesizer, upload a quiet first-note sketch, and troubleshoot USB and audio output.
MIDI programming notes
- XIAO ESP32-C3 controls the SAM2695 sound engine over a 31250-baud MIDI UART. USB debug serial is separate.
- Up to 64 simultaneous voices and the 128-value MIDI note range are distinct; neither means unlimited polyphony.
- Inserting an audio plug can disable the built-in speaker amplifier. Begin at low volume and use the first-note Wiki before a complete song player.
Small in size, big in sound! Powered by XIAO ESP32-C3 and the SAM2695 MIDI chip, this compact gadget effortlessly brings melodies to life. With built-in MIDI sound source and a speaker, it delivers rich tones, dynamic polyphony (up to 64 voices), and an extensive selection of hundreds of timbres. Whether you're a developer crafting sound experiments or a musician composing new tunes, this synthesizer makes music creation smooth and inspiring!
Features 1: Zero-Barrier Creation, Perfect for Music Beginners
With three preset modes and plug-and-play functionality, you can dive straight into music creation—no complex setup required. Built-in speaker and four tactile buttons deliver an intuitive, self-contained experience that eliminates external dependencies. Start making music from the very first note, no prior expertise needed.
Features 2: All-in-One MIDI + Metronome – Smarter, Smoother Workflow
XIAO MIDI synthesizer comes with a pre-set Metronome Mode, where you can press the buttons to change your BPM and toggle the drum track to effortlessly sync rhythms and control your entire beats with one single device. No need for extra devices or apps.
Features 3: Pro-Grade Performance for Advanced Players
Open-source hardware/software architecture supports deep customization and advanced sound design. With up to 64 simultaneous voices and a 128-value MIDI note range, unlock limitless sonic possibilities—craft your own signature sound engine, whether you're a beginner or an audio hacker.

Features 4: Ultra-Portable & Fully Hackable
Pocket-sized design (71mm × 49mm × 28.5mm) lets you capture inspiration anytime, anywhere. The 3D printed enclosure is fully open-source for you to remix and customize—not just an instrument, but your personal music canvas.
Specification
Hardware Specifications
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Core Module |
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MCU |
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Sound Generation |
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MIDI Chip |
SAM2695 |
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Polyphony |
Up to 64 voices |
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Instrument Presets |
Over 100 different instrument sounds available |
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Interfaces and Connectivity |
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3.5mm Audio Jack |
● Used to connect external audio devices (e.g., speakers or headphones) ● Features auto-disabling of the Class D amplifier when a cable is inserted and re-enabling when removed |
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Physical Buttons |
Four side-mounted physical buttons for user interaction |
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XIAO Socket |
A dedicated socket designed for the XIAO module, with expansion capability via additional side connectors |
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D-Class Amplifier |
Build-in Speaker |
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Power and Indicators |
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Power Supply |
5V Type-C |
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Indicator LED |
A single-color LED used to indicate power status and provide user feedback |
Software Specifications
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Platform Support |
Arduino IDE |
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MIDI Protocol |
Standard MIDI protocol 1.0 |
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Operating Modes |
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Mode 1: Sound Test |
● Test audio output, switch between instrument sounds (128 preset options), and adjust notes within a range (21 to 108, with a default C4 at note 60) |
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Mode 2: Metronome |
● Tap-based BPM setting and drum track on/off toggling ● BPM Range: 40 to 240 BPM (default of 120 BPM) |
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Mode 3: Multi-Track Playback |
● Each track has an on/off state with user-programmed playback sequences ● Manage simultaneous playback across four different sound tracks |
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Short Press |
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Long Press |
Used for global volume adjustments and switching between operating modes (detected with a 2–3-second press) |


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XIAO MIDI Synthesizer with 3D-Printed Enclosure (White) |
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