Do not buy an Axiom 25 for a new Mac.
The hardware is not supported beyond macOS 10.14.
For current macOS, consider Arturia KeyLab, Novation Launchkey, or Nektar series.
If you already own the Axiom 25 and have a newer Mac, use it as a basic MIDI keyboard only – or keep an old Mac running Mojave.
The M-Audio Axiom 25 (1st and 2nd Gen) is a legacy MIDI controller that is class-compliant
, meaning it generally does not require a driver download to function on modern Mac systems. You can find the necessary software support on the M-Audio Legacy Downloads page Driver & Compatibility Driver-Free Use
: As a class-compliant device, the Axiom 25 should be recognized immediately by macOS and DAWs like GarageBand, Logic Pro, and Ableton Live when connected via USB. Legacy Software
: For older OS versions (e.g., Mac OS X 10.5.8), specific installers were sometimes used, but these are rarely needed for macOS 10.15 (Catalina) and newer. Support Downloads : You can download specific tools like the Enigma software (for preset management) or HyperControl/DirectLink
profile installers for older versions of Logic or GarageBand from the M-Audio Support Downloads Review: M-Audio Axiom 25 (Gen 1 & 2) m audio axiom 25 driver download mac top
The Axiom 25 is often cited as a "chunky" but high-quality workhorse for small studios. Sound On Sound M-Audio KeyStudio MIDI Controller Review and Setup
Note: The "Axiom Pro" series has a different driver. Do NOT confuse them.
Confirm your Mac’s macOS version: Apple menu → About This Mac. Note whether it’s Intel or Apple Silicon (M1/M2).
Most modern DAWs have "MIDI Learn" functionality:
For advanced users, use MIDI Pipe or Bome MIDI Translator Classic (free for basic use) to reprogram the Axiom 25’s non-class-compliant features.
A: Yes, but only as a Class Compliant device. Plug and play for basic MIDI notes. No driver needed. For faders/knobs, use your DAW’s MIDI Learn. Do not buy an Axiom 25 for a new Mac
Don’t let a missing driver kill your creativity. For most Mac users today, the top driver download for the M-Audio Axiom 25 is, paradoxically, no driver at all. macOS Core MIDI has your back.
Bookmark this guide. When your Axiom 25 acts up, return to the steps above. Remember to always check Audio MIDI Setup first, then enable Input Monitoring in your DAW, and finally, use MIDI Learn for your faders and pads.
Your Axiom 25 has years of musical life left—even on the latest Mac.
Have a different experience? Found a secret driver that works on macOS Sonoma? Share your findings in the comments below (on our original blog post). Keep producing.
The M-Audio Axiom 25 is a class-compliant MIDI controller, meaning it typically does not require dedicated drivers to function with modern macOS versions. If you are looking to download software for advanced features or support for older Mac systems, you can find them on the official M-Audio Support Page. Driver & Software Availability
For modern macOS (such as macOS 12 Monterey or macOS 13 Ventura), the Axiom 25 uses the built-in Core Audio and Core MIDI drivers provided by Apple. Manual driver installation is usually only necessary for legacy systems or specific "HyperControl" software for older DAWs. If you already own the Axiom 25 and
Legacy Downloads: Software for discontinued products is located at the M-Audio Legacy Support Page.
Axiom Pro/AIR Variants: If you have an Axiom Pro 25 or Axiom AIR 25, these may require specific installers for features like "HyperControl" or "DirectLink" with GarageBand, Logic, or Cubase.
Firmware Updates: You can check for available firmware updates at M-Audio Drivers and Updates. Installation Steps for macOS
Connect the Device: Plug the Axiom 25 directly into a native USB port on your Mac.
Check Recognition: Open Audio MIDI Setup (found in Applications > Utilities) to see if the device appears in the MIDI Studio window.
Download Specific Software: If you need DirectLink for a specific DAW (like Logic X or GarageBand), select "Keyboard Series" and "Axiom 25" on the M-Audio downloads page.
Install & Restart: Run the .dmg or .pkg file, follow the prompts, and restart your Mac if requested. Compatibility Notes Documentation, driver and software downloads - M-Audio