Mac OS Sequoia Killed My Audio Interfaces

As a veteran in music production, I’ve amassed a number of devices that proudly claim to be audio interfaces. They sit in my studio, looking sleek and ready to seamlessly connect the analog world of sound with the digital realm. Among these are the Mackie DLZ Creator, the Mackie ProFX16v3 mixer, and the iConnectAUDIO interface by iConnectivity. All of them promise smooth audio I/O, reliable preamps, and, above all, compatibility with a variety of systems. Yet, there’s one glaring issue: none of these work with Mac Sequoia.

The Setup

First, let’s break down my workflow a bit. My main workstation runs on macOS, and I rely heavily on Mac Sequoia for various tasks. However, my audio chain needs reliable interfaces that can effortlessly bridge my hardware instruments, microphones, and outboard gear with the Mac environment.

The Interfaces

Here’s a quick rundown of the devices I’m using:

  1. Mackie DLZ Creator – Marketed as an all-in-one content creation solution, it’s designed to handle streaming, podcasting, and multi-track recording. The interface section boasts USB connectivity and promises to work with any major system.
  2. Mackie ProFX16v3 Mixer – A solid analog mixer with USB audio capabilities. It’s ideal for live sound and recording, and it offers onboard effects and multi-track recording features.
  3. iConnectAUDIO by iConnectivity – Known for its versatility, this interface offers multiple audio and MIDI connectivity options. It also supports multiple computer connections, making it a great choice for hybrid setups.

The Problem

Despite all their claims of compatibility, none of these devices are even recognized by my Mac. I’ve tried everything from reinstalling drivers, checking firmware updates, to tweaking audio settings. Yet, the result remains the same: the Mac doesn’t even acknowledge their presence as connected devices.

Used to be that Macs just worked. Now, it feels like the opposite is true—they just don’t work. The seamless reliability that once made macOS a favorite among creatives seems like a distant memory.

Potential Causes

While it’s easy to blame the devices, I suspect the issue may lie elsewhere. Here are a few possibilities:

  1. Hardware Recognition Issues – Since most modern hardware doesn’t require specific drivers on macOS, the issue may stem from how macOS handles USB audio device recognition rather than driver compatibility.
  2. Firmware Limitations – Firmware updates haven’t kept pace with macOS updates, even though the equipment isn’t old enough to be considered outdated. This gap in updates may lead to compatibility issues despite the hardware still being relatively new.
  3. USB Protocol Differences – Some older USB audio interfaces may not fully support macOS’ latest USB audio protocols, resulting in connectivity issues.
  4. Lack of Information – It doesn’t seem to be widely known whether certain interfaces play well with Sequoia on macOS. A search online brings up posts from 5 or 6 years ago, which are mostly outdated and unhelpful.

Workarounds

There is no real workaround other than waiting for manufacturers to get their act together and release firmware updates that ensure compatibility. Unfortunately, this leaves users in a frustrating limbo with no reliable options in the meantime. I’d prefer to utilize the gear I already own, especially considering the investment I’ve made in these devices.

What’s Next?

Given the lack of up-to-date information and the difficulty in reaching manufacturers, I’m hesitant to purchase a new interface. The risk of spending more money on a device that may also be incompatible is too high. Without clear guidance or reliable reviews specific to Sequoia on macOS, finding a working solution feels like a shot in the dark.

Final Thoughts

This situation highlights one of the ongoing challenges of music production: technology evolves rapidly, and staying on top of compatibility issues can be a constant battle. While it’s frustrating, it’s also a reminder of how critical it is to research device compatibility before making a purchase. That said, it’s been four months since Sequoia was released, and some of the software I use daily requires Sequoia to access important features. That’s why I upgraded in the first place. Now, I’m left waiting for manufacturers to catch up—if they ever do.

If you’ve faced similar issues or have any suggestions, I’d love to hear from you. Together, we might just find a solution that works.


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Blind Mime Ensemble is a project by Briyan Frederick powered by 40+ years of music and lyrics, old and new, seeded into AI models mainly in a glitchy electronic pop kind of vein with liberal experimentation and venturing outside the lines. You’ll hear elements of old bedroom 4-track songs, tapegerms and unearthed confessions mixed in, along with lots of brand new stuff.

Blind Mime Ensemble is also a virtual group fronted by two blind mime artists and lovers, developing a digital theatre of the absurd bound by a sublime vision of truth. The troupe is gearing up for its new concept tour under development.

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