MIDI Layers vs AU EngineCore
Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.
MIDI Layers
This app allows musicians to intelligently route MIDI data, enabling complex keyboard splits, layered instruments, and seamless scene switching for live performances. Create up to 12 scenes with numerous layers, each with customizable MIDI output and note remapping.
- Up to 127 layers per scene
- 12 scenes per preset
- 16 output ports and channels
- Remote scene switching
- Layer mutes and mute groups
- Scales per scene
- Per-layer velocity curves
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MIDI Layers is an AUv3 MIDI plugin designed to allow sophisticated routing of MIDI data in hosts such as AUM or Cubasis. Have you ever wanted to play multiple instruments from a single master keyboard during a live performance? Would you like to be able to set up keyboard splits, crossfade layers or create an ensemble of layered instruments? If you answered yes to either of those questions, then MIDI Layers may be your solution. Layers allows you to create up to 12 scenes, each with up to 127 layers, spanning your entire master keyboard. These scenes allow you to seamlessly switch between various layer mappings at any time during a performance. Each layer controls the MIDI output, which can be routed to one of MIDI Layers 16 output ports and 16 channels. So if you have 5 layers in your scene, each layer is able to divert MIDI key input to 5 destinations, allowing you to control 5 instruments from one master keyboard. Layers can overlap, meaning you can create an ensemble of two or more instruments. Layers can also have cross fades so that you can fade from one instrument to another across a specified range. You can also control the velocity curves of a layer if you need to emphasize note velocity at a certain set of octaves. Each layer can also be remapped so that you can target a different key range on the destination instrument. This allows you to have several single note layers that can target specific drum machine samples for instance. You can assign a song per scene, or have several scenes containing parts of the same song. Switching scenes is simple, using the on screen scene buttons, via AU parameters, or you can even add a special control layer to a scene which can then be triggered via your master keyboard. It is also possible to assign a Program Changes to a layer. When you switch scenes, each layer can fire off its own program change to your destination instruments. Each scene can be assigned its own scale, which enables you to play using only the white notes so say goodbye to wrong notes. Finally, layers can be assigned to mute groups, allowing you to quickly turn on/off groups of layers with a single key or button press. Features: ○ Up to 127 layers per scene. ○ 12 scenes per preset. ○ Supports 16 output ports and 16 channels. ○ Remote switching of scenes using MIDI or AU. ○ Supports layer mutes and mute groups. ○ Named scenes with large scene selection mode. ○ Supports scales per scene which can be played using white notes only. ○ Each layer can define a Program Change that is sent when scenes are switched. ○ Supports per layer velocity curve. ○ Supports per layer remapping of notes on output. ○ Each layer can have a cross fade settings assigned. ○ Definable Master Keyboard size (6, 7, 8 or 10 octave). ○ Scene and mute control layers. ○ Provides default custom layouts. Please Note: This product will not work with GarageBand since it cannot load AUv3 MIDI plugins.
AU EngineCore
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AU EngineCore app effectively transforms any compatible multi-channel audio interface into a fully configurable digital mixer for live performance. Unlike traditional digital mixers, AU EngineCore offers a software-defined mixing environment, giving users complete control over routing, processing, and signal flow without hardware limitations. A key advantage is the ability to use studio-grade AUv3 plugins directly in live scenarios, enabling advanced processing and creative flexibility that typically requires dedicated studio setups. Built for precision, speed, reliability and real-time performance, AU EngineCore delivers ultra-low latency audio processing, flexible routing, and a clean, distraction-free interface. Key Features • Ultra-low latency audio engine for real-time performance • Advanced multi-bus routing with flexible signal flow • AU plugin support (inserts on channels, buses, and master) • Designed to work seamlessly with most multi-input audio interfaces • Stable performance even in complex live setups • Clean, classic interface optimized for fast operation • Real-time processing with no interruptions or audio artifacts in Live Mode • Multi-channel input and output support • Built for musicians, performers, and sound engineers Built for Live AU EngineCore is engineered to handle demanding live scenarios where stability and speed matter most. Every part of the engine is optimized to ensure smooth operation, even under heavy load. Flexible Audio Setup Connect your audio interface and build your mix the way you want: Route signals across multiple buses Insert AU effects anywhere in the chain Customize your workflow to meet your specific needs. Precision Without Distraction The interface is designed to stay out of your way, so you can focus on what matters: your sound. #nobodysbanda
Screenshots
Verdict
The clearest difference is price: MIDI Layers at $12.99 against AU EngineCore's $22.99. MIDI Layers also leads on iOS requirement (13 vs 16.6). On update cadence, ads, in-app purchases and device support there is nothing between them.
Scored on Price · Rating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings · Update frequency · Ads · In-app purchases · Monetization · Best chart rank · Devices · Requires iOS
MIDI Layers costs $12.99 and AU EngineCore $22.99 up front. Neither carries in-app purchases, so what you see is what you pay.
MIDI Layers ships an update fortnightly, AU EngineCore weekly. The most recent releases landed on September 21, 2026 and September 14, 2026 respectively.
| Parameter | MIDI Layers | AU EngineCore |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $12.99 — better | $22.99 |
| Rating | 4.7 (13 ratings) — better | — |
| Positive reviews | 57.1% of reviews | — |
| Number of ratings | 13 — better | — |
| Update frequency | Fortnightly | Weekly — better |
| Ads | No | No |
| In-app purchases | No | No |
| Monetization | Paid | — |
| Devices | iPhone, iPad, iPod — better | iPhone, iPad |
| Requires iOS | 13 — better | 16.6 |
| Further details — not scored | ||
| Size | 15 MB | 13 MB |
| Age rating | 4+ | 4+ |
| Developer | 4Pockets.com | Antonio Sorin TASU |
In-app purchases
MIDI Layers
No in-app purchases
AU EngineCore
No in-app purchases









