Need help with Focusrite (Scarlett Solo) on Mac

[kesslari]

I'm getting input, but not into the programs I want. I'll explain:

I'm using Audacity and want to record a bass part.
I am not getting any signal into the program. I've had the same issue with Ableton Live.
I am getting signal into the Mac (per the Audio Input level under System Preferences)

The details:

I'm using a Mac ()SX 10.10.5)
I connect the Focusrite via USB, as directed. Bass into Focusrite instrument input.
In Mac Settings I select the Focusrite as my input device.
The "Input Level" shows that it is reading the signal.
In Audacity I select the Focusrite as my input device.
I press Record. No signal. The record line stays flat. No audio recorded.

So - I'm sure I'm missing something fundamental.

Thanks in advance for the help.

 

[bholder]

I'm not using an Mac, but I've noticed Audacity sometimes gets confused if I plug the Scarlett in after starting Audacity. If I close Audacity and start it again, it finds things in the right places. Otherwise, it sometimes switches the inputs and outputs backwards from the actual, which gets weird. No idea if this will be of any help, but I've had similar issues a few times, and restarting Audacity has always cleared them up. It gets especially confused if I try to switch "on the fly" between the Yeti mic and the Scarlett.

 

[Michael B]

Also reboot mac leaving interface plugged in. This helps me occasionally.

 

[kesslari]

I was optimistic about a reboot with focusrite plugged in, but nope... Still no signal into Audacity.
Argh.

 

[silky smoove]

Option-click the little speaker icon at the top of your screen (part of OSX). That will display a list of the available audio sources for input and output. Is your interface listed? If not your machine can't see it.

 

[beans-on-toast]

Connect the device to the USB port. Under System Preferences > Sound, see if the computer is recognizing the Scarlett. You should select it for input and output. You seem to have done that.

Focusrite mentions the possibility of a third party (Novation or some other product) USB driver installed the mac. If this is the case, it can interfere with communication between the unit and the computer. Assuming that isn't an issue.

I've never used Audacity. Try this:

 

[blakelock]

i use the focusrite solo into garageband. this is probably silly but make sure you have the right input selected. the focusrite has #1 and #2. make sure your program is listening to the right one.

 

[kesslari]

@blakelock - THAT DID IT! WooHOOOO!

Thank you all.