This page features a growing list of FAQs. If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for or If you have any other questions, ideas or feedback, feel free to reach out to support@synthcompanionapps.com.
Connection
How do I connect the Prophet-6 to my phone/tablet?
The easiest way is a direct USB connection, but using a USB MIDI interface will work as well. The Prophet-6 does not have any built-in wireless connectivity.
Which connection types are supported (USB, MIDI,…)?
You can use a wired USB or MIDI connection. Wireless MIDI of any kind is currently not supported. I’m looking into it, though.
What USB cable do I need to connect the synthesizer to my phone/tablet?
Most mobile devices nowadays have USB-C type connectors, the synthesizers are equipped with USB 2.0 type B connectors (also known as “the printer plug”).
This means that to connect the synthesizer to your mobile device, you’ll need a USB-C to USB 2.0 type B cable. Make sure to keep the length at 3 meters or lower, there have been reported issues with longer cables.
Do I need to change any settings on my synthesizer?
On the Prophet-6, you need to make sure that the GLOBALS setting for sending SysEx data matches your connection type and that your synth is set to send and receive parameters in NRPN format.
– Press GLOBALS
– Select “MIDI Sysex” by pressing “8”
– Now select “USb” or “nId” (5-pin MIDI) depending on your connection type
– Press GLOBALS twice to exit.
The same thing needs to be done for the following settings:
– ParamXmit (GLOBALS -> 5): nr
– ParamRcv (GLOBALS -> 6): nr
Do I need one or two MIDI cables?
If you connect the synthesizer via a MIDI interface, you need to connect BOTH – IN and OUT of the synthesizer to establish two-way communication.
Make sure to cross-wire the connection:
Synth IN -> Interface OUT
Synth OUT -> Interface IN
How long can the cables be?
If using USB, try to keep the cable length at 3 meters or less. Theoretically, USB 2.0 should support up to 5 meters, but I have experienced issues with longer cables while testing.
With 5-pin MIDI cables, 5 meters should still be OK. Theoretically, even higher lengths (up to 15 meters) should be possible, but you might start to run into connection issues.
Device support
Does the app support both, desktop and keyboard version of the Prophet-6?
Yes, the app supports both devices.
Will you write apps for other synthesizers as well?
If the Prophet-6 companion app is well received, I will certainly have a look at building similar apps for other synthesizers.
Potential candidates within the Sequential® family include the OB-6, Trigon-6, and Prophet-5/10, with the OB-X8 also being a possibility. While there are interesting options from other manufacturers, my primary focus will likely remain on Sequential® devices for now.
Troubleshooting
Every now and then I’m running into CONNECTION ERROR
This can happen when your USB cable is too long. Especially iPads seem to be picky when it comes to cable lengths. Make sure to stay at 3 meters max.
I have selected the correct MIDI in- and output, but I still run into “CONNECTION ERROR”
On the Prophet-6, you need to make sure that the GLOBALS setting for sending SysEx data matches your connection type.
– Press GLOBALS
– Select “MIDI Sysex” by pressing “8”
– Now select “USb” or “nId” (5-pin MIDI) depending on your connection type
– Press GLOBALS twice to exit.
I can’t see the parameter monitor when I turn knobs
You need to enable sending NRPN data in the GLOBALS settings on your synth. I will add more detailed instructions for this soon.
When I save a patch, the name doesn’t change
This is most likely due to Param Xmit/Rcv. settings in the GLOBALS section of your synth. They both need to be “nr” (NRPN). I will address this in the next update.
There’s also a bug in early versions (up until 1.0.1) of the app, where you need to set the MidiChannel to ALL for this to work as well. This is fixed with the 1.0.2 update.
App philosophy and features
Is the app a librarian or an editor?
Actually, it’s neither.
The app is designed as a second screen, providing additional functionality while allowing you to continue using your synthesizer’s knobs and buttons to program sounds. I’m considering expanding its features in one or both directions, but only if it makes sense in terms of usability and interface design.
This is particularly critical on mobile devices, where thoughtful design is essential. I’ve always prioritized simplicity and intuitiveness in interfaces—I have no intention of turning the app into an overcomplicated, unwieldy tool.
How does the Prophet-6 companion app compare to other apps (SoundTower,…)?
The Prophet-6 Companion app is meant to be used WHILE you’re creative and programming sounds. It’s meant to be an extension to the actual instrument. It mostly offers features that Sequential could have added to the synth itself if it had a display and/or some more buttons. Other apps, like Soundtower, are there to manage a database of sounds, to integrate with DAWs and to allow full sound editing via software.
Press & media
Do you provide free licenses for journalists, bloggers, YouTubers who want to review your app?
Yes, I will provide you with a free license if your usually covered topics are related. Just shoot me an email: support@synthcompanionapps.com