Troubleshooting HEXCEL – No Sound, No MIDI, or Crashes

Stuck with silence or system issues? This guide walks you through the most common HEXCEL problems and how to fix them fast.

No Sound or MIDI Output?

If HEXCEL appears to be working (cells are moving, UI is responsive) but you’re not hearing anything:

Check Your Routing

HEXCEL doesn’t produce sound directly—it generates MIDI that must be routed to another instrument.

In most digital audio workstations (DAWs), you need to:

• Load HEXCEL on a MIDI track.
• Route HEXCEL’s MIDI output into a virtual instrument (like Serum, Kontakt, etc.).
• Make sure the instrument is armed and monitoring input.

See our guide: Setting Up HEXCEL in Your DAW →

Check MIDI Channels

• HEXCEL defaults to MIDI Channel 1.
• Ensure your receiving instrument is also set to receive on Channel 1 (or "All").

Nothing’s Happening at All?

If the plugin loads but nothing plays when you hit play:

Check Transport & Sync

• HEXCEL follows your DAW’s transport. You need to press play in your DAW to activate MIDI generation.
• Double-check that DAW sync is enabled (in the Settings panel).

No Notes on the Grid

• HEXCEL only outputs MIDI if there are active notes in the hex grid. Make sure at least one cell is active.

HEXCEL Is Crashing or Freezing?

If HEXCEL crashes on load or causes your DAW to freeze:

Plugin Version

• Make sure you installed the correct version for your system:
• macOS: AU/VST3
• Windows: VST3
• Double-check system requirements for compatibility.

Rescan Plugins

• Some DAWs may need a manual rescan before recognizing HEXCEL after install or update.

DAW Version or Host Compatibility

• Use the latest version of your DAW where possible.
• HEXCEL is officially supported in:
• Ableton Live
• FL Studio
• Logic Pro
• Cubase
• Reaper
• Bitwig
• Studio One (some versions have limited MIDI routing options)
• What About GarageBand, and Pro Tools?

• These DAWs do not support full MIDI generator routing. 
• We recommend using HEXCEL in a DAW that supports plugin MIDI output.

Final Steps: General Fix Checklist

• Restart your DAW and system after install.
• Ensure HEXCEL is authorized (otherwise, MIDI may be blocked).
• Use a supported DAW and routing method.
• Try disabling other plugins to rule out conflicts.

Still Need Help?

Reach out to support with the following:

• Your DAW name and version
• Operating system
• Plugin format used (AU/VST3)
• A description or screenshot of your routing 

We’re happy to help you get up and running!