- \n
- macOS<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n
- Windows<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>
- DAW and plug-in updates<\/strong><\/a>\n
- \n
- DAW<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n
- Plug-ins<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>
- Audio driver and firmware updates<\/strong><\/a>\n
- \n
- Audio drivers<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n
- Firmware<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>
- Related content<\/a><\/strong><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Operating system updates for Mac and PC<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Your computer will often prompt you for updates: either security updates or a more recent version with the latest features. Performing routine updates is usually a good thing, but not if it creates an incompatibility issue between your software or audio devices. Updating to an incompatible system has the potential for buggy or non-supported software, too, and that can seriously interrupt your work. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
PCs and Macs both receive operating system updates, but they\u2019re managed and performed differently. The most important thing to remember is that the operating system version will determine which software and drivers will work with your computer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Software compatibility = System requirements<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For your recording software to work reliably, your computer system must meet or exceed its system requirements. That means the computer must meet the software\u2019s minimum requirements for the operating system version<\/strong>, processor<\/strong>, memory (RAM)<\/em><\/strong>, and storage space. <\/strong>Learn more about how to view your computer\u2019s specs <\/a>and verify compatibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
macOS updates<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The operating system on Mac computers is called macOS (previously OS X)<\/em>. Updating macOS means to go from your current operating system to the latest available version from Apple. That means if your current operating system is macOS 10.15.1 you\u2019ll be updated to the latest version of 10.15, such as 10.15.1<\/strong> or 10.15.5<\/strong>. If you are upgrading<\/strong>, it means you\u2019re not applying a simple update but rather installing an entirely new operating system. If your current operating system is anywhere between macOS 10.9 and 10.14.6 you\u2019ll be updated to the latest macOS edition, for example, 10.15.1.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Updating](\"https:\/\/www.sweetwater.com\/sweetcare\/media\/2020\/04\/Updating-to-macOS-Catalina.png\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nUpdating to macOS Catalina.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Should I update macOS?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Macs used for music production must be compatible with your software and hardware devices to work consistently. Updates are done through the App Store <\/strong>application or System Preferences > System Updates <\/strong>and can be performed manually or automatically. Since the native macOS security features are sufficient for practical studio purposes, we recommend checking for updates manually and always make a backup before updating or upgrading. Learn more on our macOS Sequoia Compatibility List<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In short: <\/strong>Continue working on a compatible system until you have confirmed all your hardware and software will be compatible with the new version. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nBefore updating macOS<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Check that ALL<\/strong> software and hardware are compatible with the version you are updating or upgrading to.<\/li>
- Create a Time Machine backup<\/a> on an external hard drive<\/a>.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nDisable automatic updates<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Click the Apple icon<\/strong> and choose System Preferences\u2026<\/strong><\/li>
- Click App Store.<\/strong><\/li>
- Uncheck Automatically check for updates<\/strong>.\n
- \n
- (optional)<\/em> To only check for security updates, check the following:\n
- \n
- Automatically check for updates<\/strong><\/li>\n
- Download newly available updates in the background<\/strong><\/li>\n
- Install system data files and security updates.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n
Learn more about Apple updates:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- What’s new in the updates for macOS Sequoia<\/a><\/strong><\/li>
- How to update the software on your Mac<\/strong><\/a><\/li>
- Apple security updates<\/strong><\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Windows updates<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Windows computer operating system (OS<\/strong>) occasionally requires updates to add new features and patches to fix bugs in the OS. Updating the latest OS means your computer will have the latest security and bug fixes that Microsoft has released. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
There are two different types of updates; Quality (cumulative) Updates<\/strong>, which are mandatory updates that include bug and security patches (also known as a KB update<\/strong>). The other type of update is known as a Feature Update<\/strong>. This is a major update to the Windows operating system and happens approximately once every six months. Feature updates are rolled out gradually, which means not all Windows users will receive them at once.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Windows](\"https:\/\/www.sweetwater.com\/sweetcare\/media\/2020\/04\/Windows-update-screen.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nShould I update Windows?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
By default, Windows 10 has automatic updates enabled. If there is a new update, be it Quality or Feature, you\u2019ll receive a notification if you would like to apply the update now or at a later time. You can pause updates for up to 35 days before it automatically updates. Follow these steps to update your Windows OS.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Click the Windows <\/strong>icon on the toolbar, type Update, then select Check for updates<\/strong>.<\/li>
- Click Check for updates<\/strong> in the Windows update screen. If there are new updates available, it will automatically download the file.<\/li>
- Once the download is complete, click Restart Now<\/strong>. If you want to wait for the update to be installed, select Schedule<\/strong> a restart and choose the time you wish for it to be applied.<\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n\n
How to pause updates:<\/strong> Click Pause updates for 7 days<\/strong> or go to Advanced options<\/em>, and use the dropdown box to select the date you want the updates to be applied. After 35 days, you must download and install any current updates before pausing again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Before updating Windows<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Check your DAW, plug-in, and audio interface manufacturer\u2019s page for compatibility information. <\/li>
- Make sure you have enough space on your hard drive when performing an update. You can free up space automatically by enabling Storage Sense<\/a>. <\/li>
- Back up any projects, virtual instrument libraries, and media to an external hard drive<\/a>. <\/li>
- Consider performing an image or file backup of your computer. Check out our article about How to Back Up Windows<\/a>!<\/li>
- Visit Microsoft\u2019s Update FAQ<\/a> for tips and information on updating your version of Windows.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nAbout Windows automatic updates<\/p>\n\n\n\n
While you can technically turn off updates by disabling a specific service or deleting a registry key, it is not recommended. This can cause irreversible damage in which you will need to reinstall the entire OS.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
DAW and plug-in updates<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Digital Audio Workstations (DAW\u2019s) <\/strong>and plug-ins <\/strong>are the most common software tools used for audio production. Updates can include new features and fixes to make the software perform its best. While it may be tempting to install the latest version, sometimes that may mean installing a version that is incompatible with your computer system. Below, we\u2019ll explain when and why to update your DAW or plug-in software.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
DAW updates<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Most modern music relies on Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) <\/em>software for recording and arranging. That\u2019s because everything recorded will be saved on a hard drive and recalled in the DAW session. When you update a DAW, you\u2019re essentially installing a newer version, and sometimes the system requirements change when updating or upgrading. While the new features and patches will improve the software, it must be compatible with your computer to work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When to update DAW software<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s hard to make a blanket statement that applies to all updates, but here are a few tips that will help you make a smart decision. Visit your DAW software manufacturer\u2019s website for more compatibility information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- If the update resolves an issue or provides new features, it is advisable to perform the update, so long as the software is compatible with your computer system. <\/li>
- If your computer updated to a more recent operating system, you likely may need to update the DAW version, too. <\/li>
- When the manufacturer lists that the new software version is compatible with your computer system (OS version, processor, memory, storage)<\/em> then the new version is supported.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Before updating your DAW, first, check that your computer will be compatible with the new version. If the new version is NOT<\/strong> compatible with your current system (requires more RAM or newer OS version)<\/em>, it may not work correctly or even launch at all. You\u2019ll need to uninstall and then reinstall the old version or update your computer to meet the new DAW version\u2019s minimum requirements. Updating the computer can sometimes mean upgrading the RAM or processor, which isn\u2019t an option in many cases. It\u2019s almost always better to reinstall the older software version.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Check that the computer meets your current DAW<\/strong>\u2019s system requirements.<\/li>
- Check that the computer meets the new DAW<\/strong> version\u2019s system requirements.<\/li>
- Check that your plug-in software<\/strong> is supported in the new DAW version.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
![\"Steinberg](\"https:\/\/www.sweetwater.com\/sweetcare\/media\/2020\/04\/Steinberg-Download-Assistant-screenshot-1024x668.png\")
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nUpdating Cubase via Steinberg Download Assistant<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Plug-ins<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Software plug-ins do not typically require updates, although some may require updates for patches or compatibility. While virtual processors generally don\u2019t require routine updating, virtual instrument hosts\/players like Kontakt<\/a> or UVI Workstation<\/a> are stand-alone apps that host other sample libraries and instruments. These types of apps are updated more frequently to ensure compatibility with the newest sounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Windows 32bit & 64bit compatibility<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One reason for updating plug-ins on Windows is for compatibility reasons. There are two versions of a VST plug-in: 32bit and 64bit. Most DAW’s and plug-in software will only use 64bit versions nowadays. This means that if your plug-in is 32bit and your DAW only accepts the 64bit version, you\u2019ll likely receive an error, or the plug-in won\u2019t load. Check out our SweetCare article to learn more about using VST Plug-ins on Windows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\nMac plug-in compatibility<\/p>\n\n\n\n
macOS supports VST and AAX plug-ins, but also AU (Audio Units)<\/strong>, Apple\u2019s proprietary plug-in format. If your plug-ins are not showing up in your DAW, try downloading and reinstalling the latest version of the software. Make sure to check the plug-in\u2019s system requirements and verify your Mac is compatible before updating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When to update plug-ins<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Check that the computer meets the new plug-in version\u2019s system requirements and that plug-in software is supported by your DAW. Read more on our plug-in compatibility page<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Installing a new version or upgrading.<\/li>
- Installing a patch or feature update.<\/li>
- Updated the operating system or DAW.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
![\"Toontrack](\"https:\/\/www.sweetwater.com\/sweetcare\/media\/2020\/04\/Toontrack-Update.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nUpdating Toontrack virtual instrument plug-ins.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Audio driver and firmware updates<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Music production hardware like audio interfaces, MIDI keyboards, and hard drives connect to your computer. The device\u2019s hardware components won\u2019t change, but software such as computer drivers<\/strong><\/a> and your device\u2019s internal firmware<\/strong><\/a> are often updatable. We\u2019ll explain below when and why to update either one.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What’s a driver?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A driver is a type of software that allows a computer to communicate with external devices like audio interfaces, MIDI controllers, and printers. Computers are usually equipped with generic drivers that are organized in \u201cclasses\u201d by function. For example, audio or MIDI interfaces that do not require driver installation to work with a computer are considered class compliant<\/strong>. That means the generic drivers included with your OS will work, and the audio device will be selectable and fully functional.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If the connected hardware has additional features that are not included with the generic audio drivers, an additional driver from the manufacturer is required. That driver will have the information that lets the device work to its full capabilities. For example, if your audio interface requires driver software, it’s because the audio streaming or control software is unique and requires the additional driver. Without it, the interface may not be fully functional or show up on your computer at all.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"Windows](\"https:\/\/www.sweetwater.com\/sweetcare\/media\/2020\/04\/Windows-Device-Manager.png\")
<\/a>Windows Device Manager<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n \n![\"Mac](\"https:\/\/www.sweetwater.com\/sweetcare\/media\/2020\/04\/Mac-Audio-MIDI-Setup-1024x603.png\")
<\/a>macOS Audio Midi Setup<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n When to update drivers<\/p>\n\n\n\n
While most drivers only function to connect the computer to the external device, they often include bundled control software to access all the device\u2019s features, as well. For many audio interfaces, the driver is included with the software application. If you are thinking about updating your drivers, there are a few things to consider before determining if it\u2019s necessary or not. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
- If both the latest version and installed version of the driver are compatible with your system, updating the driver software will not necessarily affect the connectivity, rather just features or patches included in the update.<\/li>
- If your device is no longer functioning properly, or even connecting with the computer at all, reinstalling the latest driver may resolve the issue. <\/li>
- If your computer\u2019s operating system (PC or Mac)<\/em> was updated, it’s possible that the current driver is now out of date, and a new version of the driver needs to be installed on the computer.<\/li>
- If a compatible software driver update does not exist for your OS, you will need to install a compatible driver to continue using the device. \n
- \n
- Most manufacturers will have a driver archive which allows you to select previous downloads that can be compatible with your system.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
IMPORTANT NOTE FOR CLASS-COMPLIANT DEVICES ON WINDOWS<\/strong>: Since class-compliant devices don\u2019t have additional driver software to download, you will manually need to update them. To do this, check out our SweetCare article on how to update your drivers in Device Manager<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
- If a compatible software driver update does not exist for your OS, you will need to install a compatible driver to continue using the device. \n
- Check that the computer meets the new DAW<\/strong> version\u2019s system requirements.<\/li>
- Check that the computer meets your current DAW<\/strong>\u2019s system requirements.<\/li>
- Back up any projects, virtual instrument libraries, and media to an external hard drive<\/a>. <\/li>
- Click Check for updates<\/strong> in the Windows update screen. If there are new updates available, it will automatically download the file.<\/li>
- How to update the software on your Mac<\/strong><\/a><\/li>
- Download newly available updates in the background<\/strong><\/li>\n
- Automatically check for updates<\/strong><\/li>\n
- Click App Store.<\/strong><\/li>
- Create a Time Machine backup<\/a> on an external hard drive<\/a>.\u00a0<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
- Firmware<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>
- Plug-ins<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>
- Windows<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>