iPad MIDI Compatibility

[DOndek]

Hi all,  I was recently able to set up my Helix to be controlled via my iPad Pro (SetlistMaker app) to change programs, enter into Stomp mode, and change come footswitches).  It's an awesome feature for gigs when I have multiple guitars!  I have an older iPad Air 2 that I use as a back up for my charts and was trying to set it up to do the same.  Every setting in the 2 iPads for the app is the same, but MIDI isn't working and the app is not recognizing the Helix in the MIDI log.  The app developer is wondering if it's a compatibility issue with the iPad or the hardward connectivity.  The iPad Pro connects via USB B from the Helix to USB C on the iPad, whereas the iPad Air 2 connects via USB B to USB C adapter (which I've tested the adapter with the iPad Pro and it's fine) and then a USB C to Lightning cable to the iPad Air 2 (all of these cables and connections are supposedly compatible with the SetlistMaker app.  Does anyone have a set up or have had an experience like this?  Thx! 

[rd2rk]

We got this working for you using Helix>PC>Reaper. I could test this for you on my ancient Air2, but I don't have SLM, so...

Maybe start by using a straight USB B to Lightning cable. That seems to be the only difference other than the Air2.

I use my Air2 with various MIDI controllers, routing through AUM, to control Helix/Catalyst/ToneX, So the Air2 should not be a problem.

Make sure the cable is data compatible. I just went a little bit nuts using a cable I THOUGHT was data compatible but was only a charging cable. VERY annoying!

[datacommando]

On 4/11/2025 at 9:56 PM, DOndek said:

Does anyone have a set up or have had an experience like this?  Thx! 

Hi,

 

I haven’t recorded anything for quite sometime using my iPad Air 2, but IIRC I needed this for it communicate properly.

 

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Lightning-Charging-Compatible-Supports-Connection/dp/B0CTT8DX51/ref=asc_df_B0CTT8DX51?mcid=2b6fa62014ec3533a162b5d066496313&tag=googshopuk-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=697300985719&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=3485065662908258461&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9046330&hvtargid=pla-2340468471784&gad_source=1&th=1

 

Also, when recoding guitars I used either an IK Multimedia iRig, or iRig Acoustic Stage, to use with GarageBand, but they used the small headphone socket to patch in. Apple did away with the phones jack which possibly why I still have this old iPad.

 

Hope this helps/makes sense.

[DOndek]

Hi again @RD2RK , Correct on getting it working on my iPad Pro and you were incredibly helpful figuring that out, so thanks again!  I hear ya, as I can't think of any other reason it could be.  That said, the USB B to USB C (female) adapter I have works with a USB C to USB C cable on the Pro so it would be weird if it didn't work for a USB C to Lightning cable but IDK.  I looked for a USB B to Lightning cable on Amazon last night and literally every cable had an Amazon warning re: frequent returns due to compatibility and/or durability.  But I may buy one just to test it out (this is for my back up iPad after all).  

 

@datacommando thx as well for your reply.  I have a similar cable for HDMI connection, but I'll have a look into that type if the above doesn't solution the problem.  

[rd2rk]

On 4/12/2025 at 7:38 AM, DOndek said:

I looked for a USB B to Lightning cable on Amazon last night and literally every cable had an Amazon warning re: frequent returns due to compatibility and/or durability

 

The lightning port on my Air2 seems to be very picky. More so than my iPhone. It prefers actual Apple cables. PITA, but, Apple...

[DOndek]

Thanks for the replies.  Update: I bought a USB female to USB C adapter and a USB B to Lightning cable on Amazon (not Apple cables, but ones that had better reviews than others).  They both worked for the MIDI functions from the iPad Air 2 to the Helix via Setlist Maker, however, the adapter was somewhat inconsistent as it would not work, but then if you plugged it back in (or flipped it around), it would work.  The fit of the lightning cable end on that adapter was not very snug in the iPad so perhaps that was part of the inconsistency?  So the good news is it works with both of those options, what I can't figure out is why the USB B to USB C adapter didn't work (as the same adapter worked with the iPad Pro)?  Not the biggest deal as this is by back up iPad, but I still want/need it to work consistently.  Thx. 

[rd2rk]

On 4/14/2025 at 12:35 PM, DOndek said:

The fit of the lightning cable end on that adapter was not very snug in the iPad so perhaps that was part of the inconsistency?

 

Yep, that's why I mentioned the difference between the Apple cable and others.

 

On 4/14/2025 at 12:35 PM, DOndek said:

what I can't figure out is why the USB B to USB C adapter didn't work (as the same adapter worked with the iPad Pro)?

 

Yep, Apple.

 

Glad you got it working!

[lou-kash]

On 4/12/2025 at 12:35 PM, datacommando said:

IK Multimedia iRig, or iRig Acoustic Stage, to use with GarageBand, but they used the small headphone socket to patch in. Apple did away with the phones jack

 

Having got a (used) iPhone SE3 without a headphone jack just a few months ago, one of the first things I checked was if the trusty old iRig 1/4"-to-1/8" works via Apple's 1/8"-to-Lightning adapter. 
It does.
No idea if it also works with any 1/8"-to-USBC or Lightning-to-USBC adapters, however.

[DOndek]

HI @rd2rk I hear ya, but in my experience, I've bought MANY iOs related cables in my life; some Apple, some knock off, some other name brands, etc., and to be honest, I have rarely noticed a difference with regards to better compatibility / performance and certainly not longevity with Apple cables as they break / die just as fast as no-name brands (only a much higher price tag). It's unfortunate that this stuff just can't "just work" and be more consistent in 2025.  Just my $.02  And thx again for your responses and help!