Replacing the 003 console

Since the new macOS update is coming out, I want to start looking for some replacements for my 003 console. Does anyone have a recommendations? How are your set ups working for you?

[albee1952]

Knowing what you REALLY need and use from the 003 might help get the best advice. For instance, if you only need transport buttons and a fader for doing automation rides, the Presonus Faderport might do the trick(with any of several interface boxes from the likes of MOTU, RME, UA or Focusrite). If you need more "hands-on" stuff, check out the Faderport8(under $500) or a used Artist Mix($500-600). Back to interfaces, what are your needs for IO and what connections do you have available? If you have Thunderbolt, that's going to offer the lowest latency. Firewire, in general, looks to be going the way of floppy drives. You might also consider NOT doing the Apple update and keep the current rig just as it is until you can afford a major move(new computer, new interface, etc).


***As with ANY update, cover your ***** by having a backup plan. If you can easily swap your system drive, I would pull it and do a fresh install of everything(with the new OS) on a clean SSD. That way, if the update wreaks havoc, swap the old drive back in so you can work(and NEVER update anything if you have unfinished projects going)

Honestly, I never actually used most of the stuff on the 003. I only pretty much used the faders, volumes, pause & play button, and the mute button. I started to use Logic Pro X with Pro Tools 12. I would prefer to use thunderbolt (USB-C) now since I got a new computer and don't want to use the firewire dongle anymore. Something with plenty of I/O ports would be great. I'm actually very ignorant on technology involving audio equipments.

[JCBigler]

You're not going to find an interface with control surface combo unit unless you look at one of the SSL consoles, which are probably way out of your price range.

The Avid Artist/S3 units provide the tightest integration with Protools with the most control and date feedback.

Then pick an interface with the appropriate number of inputs/outputs and the sound quality that you want.

An Artist Mix with a Focusrite Clarett 8Pre/8Pre X would make a good combo, but you have to add the Protools Dock if you want full transport control.

The S3 has four inputs and outputs.

[albee1952]

Artist Mix and the old Faderport work dandy together too

[musicman691]

Originally Posted by JCBigler

You're not going to find an interface with control surface combo unit unless you look at one of the SSL consoles, which are probably way out of your price range.

The Avid Artist/S3 units provide the tightest integration with Protools with the most control and date feedback.

Then pick an interface with the appropriate number of inputs/outputs and the sound quality that you want.

An Artist Mix with a Focusrite Clarett 8Pre/8Pre X would make a good combo, but you have to add the Protools Dock if you want full transport control.

The S3 has four inputs and outputs.

With the exception of the Nucleus none of the SSL recording consoles have converters in them. Don't know about the consoles for live use though.

Because the op is looking at the OSX beyond High Sierra he better check if the video 'card' in his computer supports Metal which is required for said new OSX.