So I have something simple. I am trying to send ctlout messages to my M-Audio Axiom, so that I have my knobs set at the same levels as the values in max at all times. I have the attached patch. When I move the fader in max, it doesn't change the controller's value on the axiom. Is there a reason for this? I've set the ctlin and ctlout to the right midi controllers. I have the right channels. I don't get it.

sending-midi-out-messages-to-m-audio-axiom

You can send MIDI through the Axiom to use as a MIDI interface. In this case, it looks like you've created a loop where MIDI comes from the controller and goes directly back to it. Do you have some more details on what exactly you are trying to do?

I'm making patches in max that are interfacing with the controller. I'm using the knobs of the controller to control the volume of different loops that I have running with max. When I turn on my axiom, all of the knobs start at 0. I want to send a message to my axiom that tells the knobs what their initial values should be. Is that possible? I know that I could set the values with the axiom for the start up, but I think it would be more practical to learn how to do this in max if it's possible. I thought that the axiom was able to receive messages, but I could be wrong.

Maybe you're looking for a controller with motorized faders?

http://www.m-audio.com/images/global/manuals/060801_Axiom_UG_EN01.pdf

Check out page 19/51 of the manual. Maybe it can help you solve the issue you are having. Page 35 talks about the Axiom taking input MIDI from the computer and sending it to an external module through the MIDI out port.

You can send MIDI messages to the Axiom, but I believe it is only for the purpose of plugging in another controller. If you look at the input/outputs of the controller in a 'midiin' or 'midiout' object in MAX, you'll notice there is two input ports, and one output port for the Axiom.

One input is for Port 1, the Axiom from USB. The second is for another MIDI controller plugged into the MIDI In port on the Axiom. The controller can send output from both controllers through the USB, or the MIDI Out port on the Axiom.

With other controllers, such as those with motorized faders, having your controller take on preset values upon load is a feature.

You can send MIDI messages to the Axiom, but I believe it is only for the purpose of plugging in another controller. If you look at the input/outputs of the controller in a 'midiin' or 'midiout' object in MAX, you'll notice there is two input ports, and one output port for the Axiom. 

One input is for Port 1, the Axiom from USB. The second is for another MIDI controller plugged into the MIDI In port on the Axiom. The controller can send output from both controllers through the USB, or the MIDI Out port on the Axiom. 

Sending Midi Out Messages to M-Audio Axiom