KORG released the Bluetooth MIDI interface "BM-1" on November 15, 2025. It wirelessly connects MIDI devices such as synthesizers and digital pianos, and can also send and receive data with Bluetooth MIDI-enabled PCs and iOS devices. It allows for comfortable performance and music production without the need for MIDI cables. Furthermore, its low latency of 3 ms allows communication at distances of up to 20 meters.
This article explains how to use the BM-1, primarily from the perspective of iPhone/iPad users.
The KORG BM-1 consists of a main adapter ① with a 5-pin DIN MIDI OUT terminal and a sub-adapter ② with a MIDI IN terminal.
This is the MIDI OUT terminal ③ on the main adapter. When connected to the MIDI OUT terminal of a MIDI device, power is supplied and the device turns on.
There is a 3.5mm TRS mini phone jack ④ on the side of the main adapter, where you connect the sub-adapter.
The current status can be checked with the LED ⑤ built into the main adapter.
The sub-adapter has a MIDI IN terminal ⑥ for connecting to the MIDI IN terminal of a MIDI device, and a 3.5mm TRS mini-phone plug ⑦ for connecting to the main adapter.
The sub-adapter is used in conjunction with the main adapter and cannot be used alone.
Now that we've introduced each part, let's take a look at how to use the BM-1 in various situations.
Use case 1: Playing an iOS app with a MIDI instrument
Until now, you needed a device like the microKEY2 or microKEY Air to play music apps on your iPhone or iPad using a keyboard, but with the BM-1 you can use synthesizers and digital pianos with MIDI terminals as input devices.
This time, we will connect the BM-1 to the microKORG and try operating KORG Gadget.
Connect the sub-adapter to the main adapter of MB-1①.
Connect the main adapter ② to the MIDI OUT terminal of a synthesizer with MIDI terminals, and connect the sub adapter ③ to the MIDI IN terminal.
From here, we will explain how to set up KORG Gadget and KORG Module.
KORG Gadget
Launch KORG Gadget on your iOS device. The message "KORG BM-1 found" ④ will appear, and the BM-1 will be recognized as a Bluetooth MIDI device. However, it is not yet connected.
Open Settings ⑤ and tap Bluetooth MIDI ⑥. The KORG BM-1 will be recognized as a Bluetooth MIDI device, so tap it ⑦.
You will be asked to pair with Bluetooth. Once you agree, the Bluetooth connection will be established ⑧.
Simply turn on MIDI On ⑩ for the track you want to play and you'll be able to play KORG Gadget on your microKORG!
In this video, the BM-1 is attached to a microKORG and the iOS app KORG Gadget is played.
KORG Module
Launch KORG Module on your iOS device, tap Settings ⑤, and then tap Scan ⑥ under Bluetooth MIDI.
The KORG BM-1 will be detected as a Bluetooth MIDI device, so tapping "Not connected" ⑦ will change it to "Connected" ⑧.
This completes the setup of KORG Module. You can now play the Module sound source with your usual keyboard!
If the BM-1 remains offline and cannot be detected, check whether it is connected to another nearby PC or Bluetooth MIDI device. If it is connected, try disconnecting it.
Use case 2: Playing a MIDI instrument with a Bluetooth MIDI controller
Another notable feature of the BM-1 is that it can play any synthesizer with a MIDI connector from a Bluetooth MIDI controller, allowing you to wirelessly control even modular synths without keyboards, once again integrating them into the modern musical environment.
Connect the sub-adapter to the main adapter of MB-1 ①.
Connect the main adapter ② to the MIDI OUT terminal of a synthesizer with MIDI terminals, and connect the sub adapter ③ to the MIDI IN terminal.
Power on your MIDI synth and Bluetooth MIDI controller. Your devices will now be paired and ready to play!
This time we've focused on two features of the KORG BM-1 Bluetooth MIDI interface.
Using two BM-1 units allows you to control two instruments with MIDI connectors, and it also has a function to group up to five BM-1 units, which we'll cover in more detail in the future.
Being freed from the hassle of MIDI cables is truly a blissful experience. Why not reconstruct your music production environment with the KORG BM-1, which brings vintage synths back to life in the modern age?