Octatrack MK2 usb issue

FreddyHolm · 2022-06-21T12:58:29.560Z

Hey!
I just bought a Octatrack MK2, and I just can’t get the usb connection to work. I’m a Mac user, and I’ve tried to connect it to several Mac’s, but no go. I’ve tried to google too, but haven’t really found anything. I have the latest software on the Octa and my Macs. I also tried it with the Catalina OS. Nothing. I bought a Compact flash reader, and that works. But it’s strange not to be able to use the usb on the Octa, I think. Anyone else here with the same problem?

pidgeo · 2022-06-21T12:59:29.593Z

you got the octa in disk mode?

FreddyHolm · 2022-06-21T13:07:03.800Z

Yes, absolutely.

Octagonist · 2022-06-21T13:08:25.262Z

Leaving here for newbies.

The only feature the Octatrack exposes over USB is Disk Mode. You have to turn that on as @pidgeo says. [Proj] -> System -> USB Disk Mode.

The Octatrack doesn’t support MIDI, audio, or Overbridge or anything like that over USB.

Octagonist · 2022-06-21T13:09:55.989Z

The USB cable definitely works? You’re looking in Finder for a newly added disk? You have a CF Card inserted, and it’s formatted?

FreddyHolm · 2022-06-21T13:15:49.318Z

Thanks. I know that. But when I have it in disk mode and connect it to my Mac, shouldn’t the Octa show up as a disk? Like it does when I connect with the flashcard reader?

pidgeo · 2022-06-21T13:19:11.432Z

tried a few different usb cables? like octagonist mentioned.

in sound engineering college back in the day they used to keep banging on if there’s a problem “check your cables & connections”.

n they were right. 9 times out of 10 it was the problem.

Check yo cables

Octagonist · 2022-06-21T13:22:37.464Z

FreddyHolm:

shouldn’t the Octa show up as a disk?

Yes, it should.

Is it a 2nd hand unit? Could one of the pins have bent? It’s a risk with CF cards, I hear.

FreddyHolm · 2022-06-21T14:15:57.713Z

It is brand new, with the brand new cable that comes with it. I also tried different cables. The card is formatted and works with the external card reader. So I guess it’s the usb connection on the Octatrack then. Damn…

Octagonist · 2022-06-21T15:23:50.405Z

If only the Elektron website worked. You could raise a support ticket then.

Sounds like you really have a problem that needs their help and/or a return. Good luck!

FreddyHolm · 2022-06-21T15:26:46.434Z

Yup, I can also return the unit to the shop.
Thanks for your time!

avantronica · 2022-06-21T17:33:31.241Z

FreddyHolm:

when I have it in disk mode and connect it to my Mac

You should connect it before enabling disk mode

Octagonist · 2022-06-21T17:38:12.851Z

And unplug it after disconnecting. Some people (me included) find their OTs lock up if they leave the USB plugged in after using Disk Mode.

FreddyHolm · 2022-06-21T17:57:15.013Z

I have tried every combination. It’s. Not. Working. I am returning it and hopefully get a new one.

avantronica · 2022-06-21T19:09:25.980Z

FreddyHolm:

I have tried every combination.

That’s the problem though - you can corrupt the card that way for the OT or if impatient/un-hygienic with the CF card can damage pins

Do it the right way, as per documentation, definitely not every way or you could have further issues with a replacement

FreddyHolm · 2022-06-21T19:29:54.537Z

I have a crapload of synths and Analog Rytm MK2, Syntakt. That is never been a issue ever. I haven’t been impatience. Just connected the Octo to the computer. It never worked. But the card itself works in a external CF reader. I am getting a new Octo because of the warranty. Thanks for your insight though.

eliasgarciasceptre · 2023-06-24T12:19:09.613Z

This literally starting happening to me. I just bought my octatrack less than a month ago and just bought a new computer. When I plug the elektron usb / I am using a CF and it’s formatted / with the elektron USB Midi / Updated & going into USB Disk Mode / it won’t show up as a device and sometimes it’ll show RARELY and then it’ll just eject by itself. Have no idea what’s going on but I’m pissed.