[QLab] Rack mounted MIDI interface and USB hub

[Jim Carroll]

I'm finally ready to experiment with QLab and MIDI to drive the light  
console in one of the community theatres where I tech. I'll be in  
another venue this fall that also has a MIDI controllable board.  
There is a 3rd venue that will allow this as well. Being a light guy  
first, programming the consoles is not a problem. I'm now comfortable  
with setting up multiple channel sound. I would love to be able to  
build everything into one Go button instead of keeping track of 2  
sets of cues and trying to keep my Left and Right hands from getting  
confused.

I'm using a fully licensed version of QLab on MacBookPro that sits on  
a USB powered cooling fan pad. I own a Gator case mounted MOTU  
828MKII USB unit with a power strip and 1U of empty space.  From what  
I see on the market, the MIDI interfaces are USB driven. To add this  
I need another USB port, which means adding a USB hub.

My thought to make my gear easy to transport is to find a rack  
mounted MIDI interface and a rack mounted USB hub to drop into the  
vacant space in my Gator box. It may be wishful thinking to make this  
happen without a lot of expense.

I found the Edirol UM-3EX, which seems to be 1/3 rack-mountable. I  
was hoping to find a 1/2 or 1/3 rack USB hub so I can have everything  
sitting securely in one box and not have to worry about it. Does  
anyone have any suggestions for inexpensive rack mounted MIDI devices  
as well for a USB hub? Are there brands I should avoid?

Of course, option 2 is a $15 USB hub from Staples - but the clean  
travel box is much more appealing.

Thanks!

Jim Carroll