Help me find a MIDI patchbay/merger

Looking around the 'net it seems like no one makes MIDI patchbays anymore.

At present I'm up to 4 synths w/MIDI:

Motif XS6 - for MIDI purposes this is my master controller and sequencer - also via mLAN it acts as a MIDI interface for my laptop

MicroKORG

Yamaha TX802

And my newest acquisition, a Roland D-550

For going "out" from the Motif to the other synths, I can just chain via the MIDI THRU on each device, but I hear that isn't a great idea for more than 3 or so devices. So I need something that can do a parallel split out to each synth.

And going "back" is the other challenge. I use SysEx to send patches to/from each device from my computer, via the Motif. So I need to be able to merge the MIDI OUTs on the MK, TX and D-550 to send them to the Motif's MIDI IN and then to my computer.

So, what do you guys recommend? Obviously I would need something with at least 3 ins w/merging and 4 outs. More is better obviously in case of future expansion.

At present if I want to send sysex from a module to my 'puter, I have to unplug and replug MIDI cables all over the place.

How I wish MIDI was bi-directional.

Take a look at the MOTU products. I can't vouch for them (some slag MOTU's drivers) but they are designed to do the job.

The other way to do it is to get a MIDI Thru box and a MIDI Merger box. MIDI Solutions make 4 into 1 and 1 into 4 boxes.

The MIDI Solutions stuff works well, I have their 2:1 merger. Using a 4:1 thru and a 4:1 merge ($150 for both) as angstwulf suggested would certainly work, no power required and nothing to program either.

The MOTU Micro Express is a 4x6 patch/merge solution for $250. More flexibility in routing, a little more expansion capability but almost twice the price.

Find a used Digital Music MX-8.

Best live midi device ever made. 8 inputs, 8 outputs, full routing, splits, keybd zones, velocity remapping, etc. etc.