The latest iteration of Softube’s Console 1 system brought some significant improvements to what was already a powerful system, with a new premium build and look complemented by more in-depth processing capabilities and enhanced hands-on control. The company have just announced the launch of the latest software update, which delivers a range of improvements and user-requested features. What’s more, Console 1 Fader MkIII is now back in stock and available for purchase.
With the latest software installed, Console 1 MkIII users will be able to insert a new MIDI CC module into the unit’s Shape, EQ or Compressor sections. The tool makes it possible to take control of third-party plug-ins that don’t integrate directly with the system, greatly extending the range of tools that can be controlled using the system’s hardware encoders. Similar functionality has been added to the Console 1 Fader MkIII, which now boasts a Fader MIDI Controller Mode that makes it possible to take control of orchestral libraries, drawbar-based software instruments, or any other software with MIDI-mappable faders.
Additionally, Console 1 now supports the UADx SSL G Bus Compressor plug-in, and provides Nuendo users with VST3 DAW control.
We put the system to the test in SOS April 2024, you can check out our in-depth review here.
What’s New?
Here’s a full list of the changes introduced in version 2.5.97 of the Console 1 software:
Console 1 System
- Improved loading times significantly for large projects.
- Added MIDI CC modules for Console 1 Channel MkIII.
- Added MIDI CC mode for Console 1 Fader MkIII.
- MkI/II units: Added option for the hardware to be used as a specific MIDI controller while the On-Screen-Display is running.
- Improved DAW control for Nuendo DAW control — more information can be found the Console 1 manual or Softube’s DAW compatibility chart.
- Added Accessibility improvements for Console 1 Fader Mk III, including (but not limited to): screen reader support for HUI, Compact and Favorite Modes, and Screen reader feedback on Page Up and Page Down.
- Improved ‘sleep’ behaviour: clock and backlight are turned off after 30 minutes.
- Added support for 12-hour clock mode.
- Added support for UA SSL 4000 G Bus Compressor.
- Fixed an issue causing inconsistent metering on percussive sources.
- Fixed an issue causing paging to jump over tracks when paging with Fader in Apollo Central.
- Fixed an issue causing Function Mode to not be available while in Favorite Mode.
Console 1 Firmware Updates
Updates are now available for Console 1 Channel Mk III (17.2.3) and Console 1 Fader Mk III (12.2.3), and introduce the following functions:
- Added MIDI-functionality (see notes above).
- Improved daisy-chaining support, it should now be possible to connect up to four units.
Availability
The latest software update for Console 1 is available now via the Softube website.
