FG-X Machine-ID Activation Limitations on Apple Silicon Macs

The original FG-X is a legacy Slate Digital product and behaves differently from newer Slate Digital plugins when it comes to activation. If you are subscribed to Complete Access and notice that FG-X asks for activation every time you launch your DAW, this article explains why and how to resolve it.

Why FG-X Cannot Use Machine-ID Activation

FG-X was discontinued before Slate Digital implemented Machine-ID (computer) activations across our plugin lineup. Because of this, the original FG-X can only be activated on a physical iLok 2 or iLok 3 USB dongle. Machine-ID activation is not supported for this plugin.

When FG-X is activated on an iLok dongle, it will function normally on any computer where the dongle is connected. If the dongle is not connected, FG-X will prompt for activation even if your subscription is active and other plugins authorize correctly.

Important: FG-X is part of our legacy product lineup and is no longer updated. The recommended replacement is FG-X 2, which supports Machine-ID activation and runs natively on Apple Silicon.

Using FG-X on Apple Silicon Macs

The original FG-X was never ported to run natively on Apple Silicon. If you need to open older sessions that used FG-X, you must run your DAW in Rosetta mode in order for the plugin to load.

How to Run Your DAW Using Rosetta

  1. Open your Applications folder.
  2. Right-click your DAW application.
  3. Select Get Info.
  4. Enable the option Open using Rosetta.
  5. Relaunch your DAW.

This allows the legacy FG-X plugin to function on Apple Silicon systems, but it is only needed for older sessions that still contain FG-X.

Recommended Path Forward

  • Use FG-X 2 for all new mixing and mastering projects.
  • Only use the legacy FG-X when reopening older sessions that require it.
  • Keep a physical iLok dongle available if you need access to the legacy FG-X.

You can learn more about both versions of the limiter here:

👉 FG-X and FG-X 2 Frequently Asked Questions


Still have questions?

If you need help with FG-X, FG-X 2, activations, or older sessions, please contact us through the Support portal, and we will be happy to assist.

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