AudioUnit plugin

Using JustChords as an Audio Unit Plugin

JustChords operates as an AUv3 MIDI plugin in DAWs like Loopy Pro and AUM, sending block chords and control messages synchronized to the transport. It features two independent MIDI outputs (MIDI 1 and MIDI 2) for flexible routing to instruments, samplers, or other plugins.[user-provided] Users commonly integrate it for live chord triggering, section changes, and song progression in looping and modular workflows. [perplexity](https://www.perplexity.ai/search/79ecfc1a-49b5-46d7-b70e-3b31a798ab7c)

General Setup in DAWs

Load JustChords as a MIDI processor or instrument AUv3 in your DAW's plugin slot, mixer channel, or chain.
- In Loopy Pro: Add via mixer on a color channel (Instrument or MIDI FX). [loopypro](https://loopypro.com/manual/)
- In AUM: Insert early in a MIDI chain before target instruments. [kymatica](https://kymatica.com/aum/help)
Import or create songs with chords, lyrics, and sections inside the plugin interface.
Enable transport/playback to output MIDI data on beats; prepare playlists via standalone JustChords app or iCloud sync. [apps.apple](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/justchords/id1632968272)
Route MIDI 1/MIDI 2 outputs to downstream AUv3s, loops, or hardware for sound generation and control. [justchords](https://www.justchords.app/help-integrations/)

MIDI Output Configuration

JustChords provides two configurable MIDI outputs: MIDI 1 and MIDI 2.[user-provided]

Each output supports these modes:

Off: No MIDI transmission.
MIDI Chords: Sends standard MIDI note block chords on transport beats.
TonePacketProtocol Chords: Proprietary chord format for compatible apps/devices.

For MIDI Chords mode:

Set anticipation (lead-in) to allow downstream apps processing time: 1/4 beat, 1/8 beat, or 1/16 beat.[user-provided]
Chords fire in sync with DAW transport; no native MIDI clock generation (use host/DAW clock). [perplexity](https://www.perplexity.ai/search/e2ecb3e0-7dbf-4d38-90e3-a9aa97cde95c)

Additionally:

OnSongAppear: Sends a custom MIDI message when a new song is displayed/loaded.[user-provided]
Control Messages (via dedicated Control port): Transmits CC messages on section changes.
- First section: CC with value 1
- Second section: CC with value 2
- Etc.
- End of last section: CC with value 0
- Full spec: MIDI CONTROL port transmits CC when entering new sections (1, 2, etc.); value 0 at song end.[user-provided]

Loopy Pro Integration

In Loopy Pro mixer, add JustChords as Instrument or MIDI Processor on a channel.
Configure MIDI 1/2 outputs to Loopy bindings, clips, or other AUv3 instruments for chord-triggered loops/sequencing. [youtube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KYtJIbWDOfg)
Use anticipation for tight sync; map Control CC to Loopy actions (e.g., clip arming per section).
Control JustChords playback via Loopy MIDI clips/actions; enable OnSongAppear for song changes.[user-provided] [loopypro](https://loopypro.com/manual/)

AUM Integration

Create a MIDI chain; insert JustChords early, route MIDI 1/2 to instruments/effects downstream.
Attach audio sources (files, Apple Music) for transport sync; use Control CC for section-based automation.[user-provided] [kymatica](https://kymatica.com/aum/help)
Set chord anticipation to match AUM latency; test OnSongAppear for playlist workflows.

Tips and Best Practices

Sync Prep: Load songs in standalone JustChords first; transpose, capo, or autoscroll as needed. [apps.apple](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/justchords/id1632968272)
Routing: MIDI 1 for chords, MIDI 2 for Control/OnSongAppear; split to multiple targets.[user-provided]
Limitations: No per-song triggers beyond OnSongAppear; no MIDI clock output (DAW provides). [perplexity](https://www.perplexity.ai/search/79ecfc1a-49b5-46d7-b70e-3b31a798ab7c)
Community**: Share workflows on JustChords Discord; test in TestFlight betas.

For advanced setups, refer to DAW manuals (Loopy Pro, AUM) and experiment with MIDI monitoring tools. [loopypro](https://loopypro.com/manual/)

Last edited: January 19, 2026
Keywords: AUv3, MIDI plugin, Loopy Pro, AUM, chord triggering