Is the Console 1 Fader MK3 the Best Mixing Controller of 2024?

Softube Console 1 Fader MK3: Elevating Your Mixing Experience

Since its founding in 2003, Softube has gained a reputation for delivering high-quality audio tools for professional studios. Known for its meticulous analog emulation plugins and innovative hardware, the Swedish company has consistently merged the best of the analog and digital worlds. The Console 1 series is one of Softube’s most beloved creations, providing hands-on control over mixing in a DAW environment. The Console 1 Fader MK3, the latest in this lineup, enhances the series with motorized faders and improved functionality, aimed at making the mixing experience more tactile and intuitive than ever before.

Key Features

The Softube Console 1 Fader MK3 stands out with a set of features that are designed to bring the feel of analog mixing into the digital world:

• 10 Touch-Sensitive Motorized Faders: Smooth, motorized faders for precise volume control and automation
• Layering System: Control up to 20 tracks by switching between two layers of faders
• High-Quality Metering: Visual feedback with accurate metering for each track, including volume, pan, and more
• Analog Console Emulation: Direct integration with Softube’s channel strips and analog emulations, allowing for console-style mixing in your DAW
• DAW Integration: Seamless integration with most major DAWs, including Ableton Live, Logic Pro, and Pro Tools
• Assignable Fader Functions: Easily assign faders to control volume, pan, send levels, or any other parameter
• Hardware Control for Plugins: Tactile control over Softube’s plugins, third-party plugins, and your DAW’s native controls
• USB Connectivity: USB-powered for convenience, with plug-and-play functionality

Build Quality

The Console 1 Fader MK3 is a testament to Softube’s commitment to high-quality, professional-grade hardware. The unit features a sturdy metal chassis with a solid, weighty feel that exudes durability. The 10 motorized faders are smooth and responsive, with touch sensitivity that allows for precise control over track levels and automation. Each fader moves seamlessly in sync with your DAW, ensuring that what you see on the screen matches what you feel under your fingertips. The LED metering above each fader is bright and clear, providing real-time visual feedback. Softube’s attention to detail is evident, and the Console 1 Fader MK3 feels like it’s built to last, even under heavy studio use.

Functionality

The Console 1 Fader MK3 offers an impressive range of functionality that enhances the mixing process. The 10 motorized faders can be layered, giving you control over up to 20 tracks at once, making it easy to mix large sessions without constantly switching between screens. The faders can be assigned to control not only track volumes but also panning, sends, and other parameters, allowing for deep control over your mix. The integration with Softube’s analog emulation plugins takes this controller to another level, allowing you to mix as if you’re working on an analog console, but with the flexibility of digital. The tactile control over plugins and the intuitive workflow make the Console 1 Fader MK3 a powerful tool for anyone serious about mixing.

Workflow Enhancement

Mixing with the Console 1 Fader MK3 drastically improves workflow efficiency. The touch-sensitive motorized faders provide instant visual and tactile feedback, eliminating the need to rely solely on your mouse and keyboard. Being able to quickly adjust levels, pan, and sends with your fingers speeds up the process and allows for more creative decision-making. The ability to control multiple layers of tracks with just 10 faders means that you can mix complex sessions without losing track of your settings. Furthermore, the integration with DAWs and plugins means you can spend less time clicking around in your DAW and more time focusing on the music. For anyone transitioning from an analog mixing background, the Console 1 Fader MK3 bridges the gap between the analog and digital domains seamlessly.

Bundled Software and Extras

The Console 1 Fader MK3 comes with a range of Softube plugins, making it a complete mixing solution out of the box. Softube includes its classic channel strip emulations, giving you access to high-quality analog-style EQ, compression, and saturation. The hardware is also compatible with all other Softube plugins, as well as third-party plugins, making it a versatile controller for any studio setup. The tight integration with Softube’s plugin ecosystem enhances the console-like experience, and the included software makes this a great value for professional engineers and home studio enthusiasts alike.

Connectivity and Power Options

The Console 1 Fader MK3 is powered via USB, which keeps setup simple and clutter-free. The USB connection ensures that it can integrate with any modern DAW, and Softube’s proprietary software ensures smooth communication between the hardware and your computer. The plug-and-play nature of the device makes it easy to set up and get working with immediately, without the need for external power supplies or complicated driver installations. This makes the Console 1 Fader MK3 ideal for both fixed studio installations and mobile setups.

Pros:

• High-quality motorized faders for precise control
• Layering system allows control over up to 20 tracks
• Solid build quality with a premium metal chassis
• Seamless integration with Softube’s analog emulation plugins
• DAW integration with most major software
• Tactile control over plugins and DAW parameters
• Plug-and-play USB setup

Cons:

• No standalone mode; must be used with a computer and DAW
• Lack of rotary encoders may limit control over certain parameters
• Price point may be steep for beginners or hobbyists

Conclusion

The Softube Console 1 Fader MK3 is a top-tier hardware controller that bridges the gap between the analog console experience and modern digital mixing. With its motorized faders, layering system, and deep integration with DAWs and plugins, it offers a tactile, hands-on approach to mixing that can significantly enhance your workflow. The high-quality build ensures that it will stand the test of time, and the inclusion of Softube’s plugin suite makes it a comprehensive solution for mixing engineers. While it may come at a higher price point, the functionality, build quality, and workflow enhancements justify the investment for serious producers and engineers looking to streamline their process.