Adding some analogue feel to your DAW-life could now be a reality, but is Softube’s latest controller really the one? Roland Schmidt swipes left
If there is one nut that has never been fully cracked, it’s hardware control of a DAW. As every platform is so different, trying to find a one-size-fits-all solution could be regarded as something of a Holy Grail-level task. But now software aficionados Softube has come up with an answer to this long-standing problem and it might just be the perfect solution.
Putting the case
The Console 1 Channel Mk III is the latest revision to the Softube hardware lineup and an upgrade to the previous Mk1/2 models. As implied by the name, the concept encourages the use of hardware to control the channel strip aspect of your DAW, but with a caveat. The hardware mirrors accompanying software, engaging with both Softube and Universal Audio plugins, in a methodology much like a VST wrapper. Softube has an association with UA, having developed plugins for them before.
Trying to find a onesize-fits-all solution could be regarded as something of a Holy Grail-level task
The hardware unit itself is beautifully built. Carved from anodised aluminium, the front panel is bedecked with 27 analogue-style pots, which feel exceptionally robust. There are also a significant number of small buttons, most of which light up in order to guide your path. As a case in point, there are 20 numbered buttons across the top of the unit which illuminate in colours to match any colour-coding of channels active within your DAW.
In terms of size, the hardware comfortably fits on a desk without feeling cramped. With a footprint of 435x219mm, the front of the unit draws a slight slope toward the user, which is a nice feature if you intend to place it above your computer keyboard. Discreetly hidden away on the underside are two USB-C connection points. While there may be some scenarios where a computer can supply enough power to the hardware, Softube advises employing the included power supply, in order to maintain seamless operation. This means that you will likely need to assign both USB sockets; one to your computer and one to power. It’s also possible to mount the Console 1 on a VESA bracket, should you wish to remove it from your desk space.
Another new addition incorporates two hi-res colour displays on the front panel. These adapt to your operation, displaying everything from menus to metering, but they are relatively small at around 30mm square. Below each pot, text defines the operation of the pot above, with a second line to indicate secondary operation. These can be difficult to read in certain light, due to size and colour.
Soft tubes and EQs
We are pretty sold on the quality of the hardware, but this is a mere 50% of the overall equation. We were testing Console 1 with Logic and Luna on a
