Synchronization problems and solutions in Logic Pro for Mac

Digital synchronization error

If Logic Pro is synchronized to external word clock (Audio Sync Mode: External or Free), make sure that a valid digital signal is always available.

If you see a “Sample Rate xxx kHz recognized” error message, the clock source device (DAT machine, for example) connected to your audio hardware’s digital input may not transmit Word Clock in stop or pause mode (or has switched itself off).

Poor or no synchronization to an external tape machine

Create a new project, then make a new recording in Logic Pro of the audio on tape.

If an old recording on tape was not properly synchronized to timecode, you won’t be able to use it. When trying to synchronize to tape, there is one key rule: the playback situation must be identical to the recording situation.

MIDI and audio are not synchronized

Make sure you are using the correct audio sync mode. Open the File > Project Settings > Synchronization > Audio pane and choose MTC Continuous or MTC Trigger + Auto Speed Detection mode in the Core Audio pop-up menu.

If your audio hardware doesn’t support either mode, you should cut extremely long regions into shorter sections.

MIDI and SMPTE are not synchronized

Check all frame rate settings. The frame rates of all connected devices must be identical, including the timecode on the tape machine, the synchronizer, and Logic Pro itself.

Some synchronizers encode the wrong frame rate in MTC. In this situation, open the Tempo Editor, turn off the Detect option, and set the correct frame rate manually.