Before we begin, a word of caution: firmware updates can fail. However, all our devices come with persistent bootloaders and are always recoverable — you’ll never end up with a bricked device. That said, please do not attempt a firmware update when you’re in a hurry or need the device shortly afterward. Once the update process begins, the old firmware is erased, and the device will only function again after a successful update.
Firmware updates can be performed either via the WebMIDI interface (available only on devices sold after April 15, 2025) or via software capable of sending MIDI SysEx messages, such as MIDI-OX. In both cases, you’ll also need a MIDI interface for your computer with a MIDI output.
What about saved presets and settings?
The update process only replaces the firmware. All user presets and settings will remain intact.
WebMIDI
Currently, no firmware updates via WebMIDI are available.
MIDI-OX
For devices purchased before April 15, 2025, firmware updates can be performed using any software capable of sending MIDI SysEx messages. We recommend MIDI-OX, which has been tested and confirmed to work reliably. You can find a guide on how to download, install, and configure it here.
MIDI Interfaces
The update process involves sending a large SysEx file. Unfortunately, not all MIDI interfaces support this reliably. For example, Morningstar MIDI controllers and WIDI Uhost/Jack are NOT capable of sending large SysEx files. Please ensure your MIDI interface supports this functionality before starting the update. Otherwise, the update might fail midway, leaving your device erased and without a MIDI interface that is capable to finish the update.
How to test your MIDI interface:
You can check whether your interface can handle large SysEx files by sending the file with no device connected and observing the interface’s status LEDs. These usually blink when messages are being sent. When you send the firmware file, the LED should blink or stay lit for about one to two minutes. If that happens, your interface should be compatible and you’re good to go.
Sending the Update File
Once MIDI-OX is installed and configured to send messages to your MIDI interface’s output, you’re ready to proceed.
- Open MIDI-OX, then go to View → SysEx.
- Connect your device directly to the MIDI interface (without any other devices in between) and turn it on.
- In MIDI-OX, select File → Send SysEx File, then choose the firmware file (with the
.syxextension). The transfer will start immediately.
To ensure the update completes without issues, do not use your PC or the device during the process. The update takes approximately 2 minutes. MIDI-OX will display the outgoing SysEx messages in the background. The device will blink one LED during the update. When the update is complete, the device will automatically reboot.
A video demonstration of the update process using the HXDRA4X is available. It also shows what happens if an update fails and how to simply restart the process.
What if the update fails?
If the update fails — whether due to a computer error or a power outage — you can simply try again at any time. However, please note that the device will not function normally until a firmware update completes successfully. A device with a failed update may appear unresponsive or “dead,” but it will still accept a new update attempt.
Available Updates
| Device | Version | Download |
|---|---|---|
| HYDRA4X | 1.1.1 (16th May 2025) | Hydra4X-1.1.1.syx |