SMPTE timecode transmitted over MIDI — the most widely supported protocol for synchronizing show control software with DJ performances.
MIDI Time Code (MTC) embeds SMPTE timecode within the MIDI protocol. Instead of a dedicated audio or network signal, MTC sends timecode as MIDI System Exclusive and Quarter Frame messages over any MIDI connection — hardware DIN cables, USB MIDI, or virtual MIDI ports.
MTC is defined in the MIDI 1.0 specification and is universally supported by DAWs, lighting software, laser controllers, and media servers.
MTC uses two message types to communicate timecode position:
This design means a receiver can lock to the timecode quickly (via Full Frame) and then track it smoothly (via Quarter Frames) with minimal MIDI bandwidth.
On macOS, you can route MTC between applications using Apple's built-in IAC (Inter-Application Communication) MIDI driver:
TimecodeLink generates MTC from the current deck's playhead position. When the DJ loads a mapped track, TimecodeLink sends a Full Frame message to jump to the track's timecode start, then streams Quarter Frame messages that follow the DJ's playback — including pitch adjustments.
TimecodeLink outputs MTC at 24, 25, and 30 fps.
MTC is supported by virtually every professional show control application — lighting consoles, media servers, laser software, and DAWs.
Virtual MIDI ports (IAC Driver) route MTC between apps on the same machine with negligible latency — no external hardware needed.
TimecodeLink's MTC output follows DJ pitch adjustments, so programmed cues stay musically aligned even when tempo changes.
TimecodeLink bridges your DJ software with show control systems using professional timecode output.