Function keys inoperable using magic keyboard w/2017 MBP in clamshell mode

[Blatboy]

The subject more or less says it all. MBP 2017.. 15 inch w/touchbar in clamshell mode.
Even though I have "Use F1, F2, etc. keys as standard function keys" checked in Keyboard Preferences... when I hit a function key, only the "special features" work. (F10 is mute, not F10). When the keyboard viewer is opened, pressing on a function key does nothing. I can click on the function key on the keyboard viewer and yes, the function key "works" then. I'm guessing that this is some sort of disconnect between the fact that the preferences are setup for a laptop keyboard... but can't seem to find the answer.

Perhaps there is a workaround with Keyboard Maestro. I'll do that if I must, but first wanted to see if there is an easier fix sans rabbit hole.

Thanks!

 

[Blatboy]

Hmmm. I don't think Keyboard Maestro is the answer unless I want to change the key commands I already use. I'm a professional Logic Pro X user. I've been using the same function key based commands for 17 years haha. Seems I should be able to use as standard as a keypress as option-F9 in this setup without too much headache.... right? If I hit the function key on the keyboard, as I mentioned before... it doesn't even register on the keyboard viewer app. This feels like a system level issue...

 

[AlanShutko]

What OS are you using? We're stuck on Mojave at work, but the function keys behave as function keys.

 

[Blatboy]

I'm on Mojave too... should have mentioned that. Interesting. And you're using the same setup w a laptop?

 

[AlanShutko]

Yes, MBPs of various vintages, external monitor in clamshell mode, magic keyboard. There might be an extra setting somewhere... sometimes Apple puts things in more than one place.

 

[Blatboy]

Ok. Still looking. Troubleshooting w/someone w/a similar setup on another forum. I'll tell ye how it goes.