Compatible audio workstations/keyboards

[aaronhepp]

I recently purchased a Mac Mini (M1) with 16 GB Ram. To my surprise, a lot of my software and hardware are not compatible. Namely, my Yamaha MX49 keyboard that I have used with my 2015 iMac for over 4 years.

I went to the Yamaha website and tried to download some of their drivers but I believe they do not have a compatible version out yet (only available for OS 10.x).

Can someone share some insight into this? Is there a workaround? I just need a USB driver for crying out loud, not a new space station....

 

[ssmed]

This looks like a well recognised problem on the music sites.
e.g. https://www.yamahasynth.com/ask-a-question/drivers-for-apple-mac-m1-silicon-and-big-sur
There is mention of drivers being produced though - so hopefully something coming

 

[Fishrrman]

OP wrote:
"Can someone share some insight into this? Is there a workaround? I just need a USB driver for crying out loud, not a new space station...."

As an audio production guy, you should have realized this before you bought into the m-series Macs.

The jump from Intel to m-series will probably have its greatest impact on audio setups, which may be using hardware and software that isn't yet updated for the m series CPU -- or may not get updated at all.

The way I see it, your options are:
- send the m1 Mini back and replace it with a 2018 Intel-based Mini, which should work (although again, you won't know if it will until you try it). Or keep using the 2015 iMac for a while longer.
- get a replacement keyboard that is known to be compatible with the m series.
- "hold whatcha got" and hope that Yamaha releases updated drivers.

Fishrrman's "rules" for audio production on the Mac:
If you have a hardware/software setup that works properly, DO NOT "upgrade" your Mac (hardware) or Mac OS (software) until you've thoroughly tested things out and know that they'll work AFTER you commit yourself to the upgrade...