MIDI Time Code (MTC)
SMPTE timecode transmitted over MIDI — the most widely supported protocol for synchronizing show control software with DJ performances.
What is MTC?
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.
How It Works
MTC uses two message types to communicate timecode position:
- Full Frame message — sends the complete HH:MM:SS:FF position in a single SysEx message. Used when jumping to a new position or starting playback.
- Quarter Frame messages — a sequence of eight messages spread across two frames that together convey a complete timecode position. These stream continuously during playback, providing smooth real-time sync.
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.
macOS Setup with IAC Driver
On macOS, you can route MTC between applications using Apple's built-in IAC (Inter-Application Communication) MIDI driver:
- Open Audio MIDI Setup (in /Applications/Utilities)
- Show the MIDI Studio window (Window > Show MIDI Studio)
- Double-click IAC Driver and check "Device is online"
- In TimecodeLink, select the IAC Driver port as the MTC output
- In your show control software, select the same IAC Driver port as MTC input
TimecodeLink MTC Output
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.
Universal Compatibility
MTC is supported by virtually every professional show control application — lighting consoles, media servers, laser software, and DAWs.
Zero Latency Routing
Virtual MIDI ports (IAC Driver) route MTC between apps on the same machine with negligible latency — no external hardware needed.
Variable Speed
TimecodeLink's MTC output follows DJ pitch adjustments, so programmed cues stay musically aligned even when tempo changes.
Related
- Example Setups — sample multi-machine topology with IPs and ports
- SMPTE Timecode — the time format MTC carries
- Art-Net — alternative timecode delivery over Ethernet
- SMPTE LTC — timecode as an audio signal
Ready to Sync?
TimecodeLink bridges your DJ software with show control systems using professional timecode output.