Getting Started
Please check with your manufacturer to ensure your MIDI instrument is compatible with iPad. Some instruments, such as Native Instruments Maschine, will not work on iOS.
If your instrument is compatible with iOS, then it will be compatible with Melodics. Depending on which instrument you are using, there are several connection methods you can try:
Method 1: USB MIDI Setup (works for most MIDI instruments)
Connect your instrument to your iPad using a USB connection.
You’ll need a USB adapter/hub compatible with your iPad (Lightning or USB-C). Ideally, use an adapter that allows for headphone connections as well as USB.
Important: Not all USB adapters transmit MIDI signals, some USB connections are only for charging. If your USB adapter has a lightning symbol, it might be for charging only and not suitable for Melodics. Check compatibility or go with one of our recommended adapters:
Method 2: Bluetooth MIDI Setup
Some instruments support Bluetooth MIDI, a low-latency protocol for sending MIDI data wirelessly. (Note: Bluetooth MIDI is not to be confused with Bluetooth audio.)
Click "Bluetooth Connect" in Melodics settings and follow the in-app instructions to pair your instrument with your iPad using Bluetooth MIDI. ⚠️ Do not connect your instrument via Bluetooth in iOS settings — this will initiate a Bluetooth audio connection which is not used for MIDI connectivity.
Method 3: USB Audio and MIDI Setup
Certain instruments allow for both audio and MIDI transmission over a single USB connection. Check your instrument's user manual to see if it has this feature.
For these instruments, connect to your iPad using a USB adapter/hub. No separate audio connection is required—Melodics will transmit audio directly to your instrument.
Once you're connected, your instrument might be available to select in the "selected instrument" dropdown menu. If not, hit the "map MIDI instrument" button to create a mapping.
Troubleshooting: Instrument Not Detected
If Melodics can't find a connected MIDI instrument, try these solutions:
Check Your USB Connection: Ensure the USB cable is properly connected. The order in which you connect your cables matters. To increase the likelihood of a successful connection, follow these steps:
Connect your USB cable to your controller.
Then connect the other end of your USB cable to your USB adaptor.
If you are using a powered USB adaptor, connect this to power.
Last, connect your USB adaptor to your iPad. You may need to wait 5-10 seconds.
Try a Different USB Cable or Adapter: Use a different cable or adapter. Not all adapters/hubs transmit MIDI signals, so use the recommended ones listed above. Many MIDI devices are USB powered, but if you receive an error saying ‘Accessory Unavailable. The attached accessory uses too much power’, you may need to use a powered USB adaptor to provide the necessary power.
Disconnect Other Bluetooth Devices: If connecting via Bluetooth MIDI, disconnect or remove other Bluetooth devices to prevent interference.
Restart Your iPad: This can resolve any temporary software issues.
Close Other Applications: Other apps running in the background might interfere with your instrument’s connection.
Factory Reset Your Instrument: Reset your instrument to factory settings. Refer to your user manual or check this guide for instructions.