Convert Your MacBook Trackpad Into A MIDI Controller With AudioSwift

AudioSwift is a new app for macOS 10.11+ that allows your trackpad to be used as a control surface and MIDI controller within your DAW. Its functionality spans across four different modes: mixer, trigger, scale and XY.

Four Controller Modes

• Mixer: Control one or two faders at the same time using simple touches. Move the panning, set the send’s levels, use your trackpad as a jog wheel, and write automation in a quick and easy way. It is currently supported in Logic Pro, Pro Tools, and Ableton Live. (The jog wheel and master fader are only available in certain DAWs).
• Trigger: Devide your trackpad in different zones to start making beats, or play sustained notes. Up to three notes can be played at the same time.
• Scale: Choose a tonic note and then select a scale. Slide your fingers from left to right to play notes in the selected key. Apply pressure to the trackpad and it will send aftertouch MIDI messages. (Aftertouch requires a trackpad with Force Touch).
• XY: Use your trackpad as an XY pad to control several parameters at the same time, using one, two and three fingers configurations.

Requirements

• Requires macOS 10.11 or newer.
• A Macbook, MacBook Air, and MacBook Pro with built in multitouch trackpad, or any Mac with a Magic Trackpad 1 or 2.
• Force Touch support requires a compatible trackpad.
• Touch Bar support requires macOS 10.12.2 or newer.
• Mixer Mode currently supported in Logic Pro, Pro Tools, and Ableton Live (more DAWs to come).
• Trigger, Scale and XY Mode works with any DAW just like any MIDI controller.

AudioSwift is currently priced at $24 (also available as a demo), and you can visit the product website to learn more.

Next: Free Software Turns Macbook Pro Touch Bar Into MIDI Controller