Frequently Asked Questions

Our controllers are all MIDI Class Compliant devices and will connect to both Windows and OSX based machines using built-in drivers. (No additional software is needed for the controllers to be detected and interact with the computer).

A large number of DAWs and other software interface with MIDI controllers. Each application has its own unique way of connecting to a MIDI controller and using the signals from it to manipulate elements of the program. If you have any doubts about native MIDI controllers working with your software, please use our contact page to reach out and discuss support.

The list below includes software we know to work with our controllers and will grow as we begin creating tutorials on how to get things working in each app.

  • Logic Pro
  • Ableton
  • Cubase
  • Kontakt
  • Studio One
  • Cakewalk

And more…

The applications below are known to NOT be compatible with our controllers without the use of a translation app to convert our MIDI signals to HUI.

  • ProTools
  • Digital Performer

Yes! Our web-based editor tool allows you to connect your Sparrow MIDI Controller through a Chrome browser on Windows or OSX and manipulate the CC and Channel assignments of each fader, knob or button on your controller.


All changes made using the editor are stored on your controller and will remain set every time you plug your controller back in.


Check out our MIDI Editor page for more details on how to access and use the tool. If you run into issues, feel free to contact us for assistance.

Unfortunately, custom orders aren’t eligible for returns.

However, we stand by all of our products functioning as they’re intended to. In the event of a malfunction of your controller, custom or stocked, we’ll work with you to make it right.



Custom orders can take anywhere from a week to a month or more to fully complete and be shipped. All custom controllers are designed, 3D printed, assembled and programmed in-house, so we’ll give you as close of an estimate as we can for your controller’s completion at the time of the order. If we need to source specific parts for your controller, additional time may be required for shipping from our vendors, but we’ll cover that before you place your order.

We’re increasing the number of features and components we offer with every new controller we make. At the moment, the options below are available in custom controllers.

  • Faders (100mm and 60mm)
  • Knobs (Digital Rotary Encoders, Analog Potentiometers, various detents or “clicks”)
  • Buttons (Momentary, latching, LED rings)
  • Up to 25 analog inputs and a varying number of digital inputs

The best way to get a complete and up to date rundown of what options are available is to reach out using our contact page.

Our current line-up of Sparrow MIDI Controllers have built-in mini USB ports and ship with a mini USB to USB-A cable. We also have mini USB to USB-C cables available if your machine doesn’t have USB-A port available.


If you have specific connection needs like 5-pin MIDI ports or more, please contact us using our Custom Order form to discuss the details.

We have a 30-day return policy, which means you have 30 days after receiving your item to request a return. Return shipping on defective or damaged in-transit items is free; all other returns will have the return shipping cost deducted from the final refund value.


To be eligible for a return, your item must be in the same condition that you received it. You’ll also need the receipt or proof of purchase. 


Damages and issues 

Please inspect your order upon reception and contact us immediately if the item is defective, damaged or if you receive the wrong item, so that we can evaluate the issue and make it right.


Exceptions / non-returnable items 

Custom orders are non-refundable for any reason other than a defective item.
Unfortunately, we cannot accept returns on final sale items or gift cards.

To start a return, you can contact us at orders@themidimaker.com. If your return is accepted, we’ll send you a return shipping label, as well as instructions on how and where to send your package. Items sent back to us without first requesting a return will not be accepted and will be returned at your expense.


You can always contact us for any return question at orders@themidimaker.com.

Yes! The fastest way to complete an exchange is to return the item you have, and once the return is accepted, make a separate purchase for the new item.

We will notify you once we’ve received and inspected your return, and let you know if the refund was approved or not and the total value of the refund. If approved, you’ll be automatically refunded on your original payment method. Please remember it can take some time for your bank or credit card company to process and post the refund too.

Yes! We’ve enabled shipping to all available countries. If you experience any issues checking out, please contact us. 

We collect all necessary international VAT at the time of purchase. If your country isn’t available for orders on our site, please contact us through our custom orders form and we can create an invoice for you.

The new MIDI Editor web utility allows you to change both the CC value and channel assignment of every knob, button and fader on your Sparrow MIDI Controller.

You need to use Chrome browser in order for the the MIDI Editor tool to function. If you don't have the Chrome browser, download it here

The MIDI Editor works on both OSX and Windows. However, Windows and OSX handle MIDI connections differently. 

  • OSX allows for multiple MIDI input/output paths from each device, allowing the editor and your software to function with the controller at the same time.
  • Windows will create an exclusive connection to the device when an application requests it and prevent other applications from contacting the controller. 

Due to this, when using MIDI software on a Windows 10 or 11 machine, please ensure that all other MIDI software are closed (DAWs, Tunnels, Splitters, Editing Tools, etc.) before clicking “Get Started” on the editor tool.

After navigating to Editor.TheMIDIMaker.com:

Click "Get Started"



Once you click “Get Started”, unless your Chrome settings already allow it, you’ll be prompted to allow MIDI Connections. Clicking “Allow” should update the tool to give you a drop-down with a list of all connected Sparrow MIDI controllers.


Choose your Device and Connect

From the drop-down list, select your controller and click “Connect”.



After a successful connection, you should be presented with your controller’s current settings and fields to be used to change them.


Making MIDI Changes

Current CC Values & Current Channels - These fields will show you the current settings of your controller’s various knobs, faders and buttons.

New CC Values - each of these fields accepts a value from 0 to 127

Channel Assignment

  • Per Fader/Button/Knob - Each Fader, Knob or Button will have its own channel. (1 through 16)
  • Common - All Faders, Knobs or Buttons will share a single channel number (1 through 16)

NOTE: All fields must be populated before the “Update” button is made available, even if they aren’t being changed. 


Pressing "Update"

After pressing "Update", you should receive a pop-up message letting you know that the changes have been completed and the "Current" values will be updated to the new ones you entered. In order to test your new settings, follow the steps below based on the operating system you're using.

  • OSX: Simply open a new MIDI app and connect your controller or use an existing connection and test your controls. You can follow the update process multiple times and make additional changes if needed.
  • Windows: In order for other applications to communicate with your controller, close the browser window for the MIDI Editor and then connect your controller to another MIDI application to test your new settings.

Pressing "Disconnect"

Pressing Disconnect allows the editor tool to release the connection on your controller and takes you back to the "Getting Started" page so that you can connect to another Sparrow device to make additional changes. If you are done with making changes, there's no need to press "Disconnect" and you can simply close the web browser to fully release the connection on both Mac and Windows machines.

All Sparrow MIDI controllers now come with updated firmware that’s capable of being edited using our new Editor tool. Any controllers sold prior to 2022 will require a firmware update to make those controllers compatible. If this applies to you, please see the “Firmware Update” section in our FAQs.


Firmware updates are currently only necessary for controllers sold prior to 2022. Using a firmware file for a version other than the one you currently have will result in either reduced functionality or unexpected behavior, so please only use the relevant firmware file when updating your controller. If you have a custom controller, or don’t see your controller model listed below, please use our Contact form to let us know what controller you have so we can get the files and our utility updated.

Instructions and Firmware Loader (these downloads will take a few seconds)


Firmware