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Connecting Orchid to Your Computer for Use in a DAW: Initial Setup

Updated

Many users want to record Orchid's MIDI data directly into their Digital Audio Workstation (DAW). Here’s how to get it working.

 

Method 1: Connecting via USB-C (Recommended for Beginners)

  1. Prep Your Computer. First, completely close your DAW and any other applications that might try to use MIDI (such as Google Chrome, the firmware update website, or the standalone Pistil app). Ensure you are using a high-quality, data-capable USB-C cable, as basic charging cables will not transmit your music data.
  2. The Boot Sequence. Turn your Orchid completely off. Plug the USB cable into both your computer and the Orchid. Turn the Orchid on, but do not touch any keys, buttons, or dials while the startup logo shows on the screen.
  3. Enable MIDI. Once the Orchid finishes its boot animation, a "Select USB Mode" menu will automatically appear on its screen. Use the Options dial to select "Enable USB MIDI" and wait a few seconds for the connection to finalize.

Automatic Recognition: In most cases, your DAW (like Ableton Live or Logic Pro) should automatically recognize Orchid as a MIDI input device. On a Mac, you may need to click "Allow" on a system popup the first time you connect it.

Troubleshooting Connection Issues:

  • "It's Only Charging!": If your computer is only charging Orchid and not seeing it as a MIDI device, try this sequence:
    1. Disconnect the USB cable.
    2. Power on your Orchid and let it fully boot up.
    3. Then, plug the USB-C cable back into your computer and Orchid. Do not press any keys before connecting.
    4. If you're still experiencing issues, try adapting the USB-C plug connecting to your computer into a USB-A plug.
  • Mac-Specific Issue: On some newer MacBooks (those with M-series Apple Silicon chipsets running macOS Ventura 13 or later), the computer may mistakenly treat Orchid as a power supply. To resolve this, you will need to give explicit permission for new USB or Thunderbolt devices. To make sure your Mac is set up correctly:
    1. Open System Settings from the Apple menu.
    2. Click Privacy & Security.
    3. Scroll down to "Allow accessories to connect" and select "Ask for new accessories". This ensures your Mac will prompt you whenever a new device is connected.
    4. When prompted upon connecting Orchid, click "Allow".

Important Note: Orchid sends MIDI data only over USB-C. It does not send audio. To record the sound, you must use the 3.5mm audio output jack connected to an audio interface.

Method 2: Connecting via 5-Pin DIN MIDI Cable

  • Step 1: Get a MIDI Interface. You will need a dedicated USB MIDI interface, or an audio interface that specifically features a 5-pin "MIDI IN" port. Plug this interface into your computer via USB.
  • Step 2: Route the Cable. Plug one end of a standard 5-pin MIDI cable into the "MIDI OUT" port on the back of your Orchid. Plug the other end of that cable into the "MIDI IN" port on your interface.
  • Step 3: Power On. Turn on your Orchid! No other prompts necessary.

For instructions on how to proceed with setting up your specific DAW to record MIDI, see our DAW-specific help pages for Logic Pro and Ableton Live.

 

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