Logic Pro for Mac supports many control surfaces that connect to your computer via USB, Ethernet, MIDI, and so on. You may need an adapter or interface to connect your control surface—for example, if your control surface connects via MIDI, you may need a USB MIDI interface in order to connect your control surface, or if your device connects via Ethernet, you may need an Ethernet-to-USB-C converter. Before connecting the device, read the installation instructions included with it, and install the latest version of any appropriate firmware or driver software, if required. For more information, refer to the documentation provided with the device.
Note: Some control surfaces allow you to connect footswitches or pedals as additional controllers. If your control surface features suitable connectors, you can use optional footswitches to remotely control playback and other functions. This frees your hands for other controls and is helpful when using guitars or other instruments that require two-handed playing.
To use a control surface with Logic Pro, connect your control surface directly to your computer. See your control surface documentation for the specific type of cable required.
Most control surfaces transmit and receive data through a single cable, if the device supports bidirectional communication. For more information, see the documentation for your control surface
Important: It is recommended that you connect control surface devices directly to your computer, rather than through a hub. Daisy-chaining devices can result in errors and other problems, due to the amount of data transmitted in real time.
The diagram illustrates a typical setup using a single cable between computer and control surface.
Once connected, press the power switch on your control surface if applicable. Some devices are automatically powered when connected and have no physical power switch.
When powered, its displays (such as an LCD, if your device has one) and/or LEDs are lit. Some LCDs display a welcome message, which includes the firmware version number. On most control surfaces with motorized faders, each fader slides to its top position, then back to its bottom or center position. This self-diagnostic initialization procedure indicates that your units are functioning correctly.
Note: Generally, you can turn on your computer either before or after you turn on the control surface. Some devices, however, may require the computer to be turned on before or after the device has initialized. Check the device documentation and manufacturer website.
To use a MIDI control surface with Logic Pro, connect your MIDI control surface to a MIDI interface, and connect the MIDI interface to your computer.
MIDI interfaces are typically connected to your computer via USB. MIDI uses separate ports for input and output, and you must connect both the MIDI input and output to use the device with Logic Pro. The diagram illustrates a typical setup using MIDI input and output:
Important: You should not daisy-chain other MIDI devices via a MIDI through port to the MIDI In or Out ports used by control surfaces. Daisy-chaining can result in errors and other problems due to the amount of MIDI control data transmitted in real time.
The diagram illustrates a control surface MIDI connection.
Once connected, press the power switch on your control surface if applicable. Some devices are automatically powered when connected and have no physical power switch.
When powered, its displays (such as an LCD, if your device has one) and/or LEDs are lit. Some LCDs display a welcome message, which includes the firmware version number. On most control surfaces with motorized faders, each fader slides to its top position, then back to its bottom or center position. This self-diagnostic initialization procedure indicates that your units are functioning correctly.
Note: Generally, you can turn on your computer either before or after you turn on the control surface. Some devices, however, may require the computer to be turned on before or after the device has initialized. Check the device documentation and manufacturer website.
