Start on the old computer while everything still works
The best time to document your Logic Pro setup is before you unplug the old machine. Open current projects, check older sessions, confirm where your audio files live, and make a simple migration plan before installing everything on the new computer.
A DAW move usually fails for small reasons: a plugin that was never reinstalled, a sample folder that stayed on the old desktop, a license manager you forgot about, or a preset folder that was never backed up. This page gives you a focused checklist for moving Logic Pro with less guesswork.
1. Save Logic projects with their assets
- Before moving, confirm whether each project is saved as a package or folder and whether its assets are included or referenced elsewhere.
- For important projects, save a copy that includes the needed audio files, samples, and project assets.
- Open the copied project from the backup location before assuming the archive is complete.
2. Back up Logic-specific presets and library content
- Back up custom channel strip settings, patches, sampler instruments, templates, key commands, controller assignments, and any custom Apple Loops or sample folders.
- Document where large sound libraries are stored, especially if you keep Logic content or third-party sample libraries on an external drive.
- After moving, reinstall Logic Pro and download the sound library content you actually use.
3. Reinstall AU plugins and authorize them
- Logic Pro uses Audio Unit plugins, so old projects can show missing plugins if your AU tools are not installed and authorized on the new Mac.
- Run FX Locker on the old Mac to scan and cloud-sync your plugin inventory before you migrate.
- Use the FX Locker list to reinstall AU plugins on the new Mac, then open a few older Logic projects and check for missing-plugin warnings.
Use FX Locker before you wipe the old machine
Your DAW projects may remember plugin settings, but they do not install the actual plugins on the new computer. That is why a plugin inventory is one of the most useful things you can create before migrating.
Turn your old computer into a plugin checklist
Run FX Locker on the old machine, scan your installed audio plugins, and sync the inventory to the cloud. Then open FX Locker on the new computer and use that list as your reinstall roadmap.
Logic Pro migration checklist
- Back up important Logic Pro projects and test the backups before wiping the old machine.
- Collect or copy audio files, samples, presets, templates, and custom folders used by your sessions.
- Scan the old computer with FX Locker and sync your plugin inventory to the cloud.
- Add notes for plugin vendors, license portals, serial number locations, and install reminders.
- Install the DAW, audio interface drivers, license managers, and essential plugins on the new computer.
- Open current projects first, then test older projects that may depend on discontinued plugins or old sample paths.
- Keep the old computer or old drive untouched until real projects open correctly on the new setup.
FAQ: moving Logic Pro to a new computer
Can I move Logic Pro projects by copying the project file?
Sometimes, but only if the project has the assets it needs. For safer migration, save copies that include project assets and test them from the backup location.
Do Logic Pro projects include third-party plugins?
No. Logic projects can store plugin settings, but third-party AU plugins must still be installed and authorized on the new Mac.
Why use FX Locker for Logic Pro migration?
FX Locker gives you a cloud-synced inventory of plugins from your old Mac so you know which AU plugins to reinstall before opening old Logic projects.
Moving Logic Pro to a new computer?
Scan your old machine with FX Locker first. Your cloud-synced plugin inventory gives you a clear list of what to reinstall before opening important sessions.