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Description

Unlock the full potential of your studio with the Avid Pro Tools | S3, a compact and ergonomic EUCON-enabled control surface designed for modern audio professionals. Drawing inspiration from the award-winning S6, the S3 provides comprehensive control over Pro Tools and other DAWs, bridging the gap between power and portability. Its intuitive layout lets you manage tracks, edit plug-ins, and automate mixes with ease, transforming how you handle your productions. The built-in 4 x 6 AVB audio interface allows you to record and monitor directly from the control surface, eliminating the need for additional equipment.

Designed for flexibility, the S3 lets you create up to 12 custom mixer layouts, ensuring that all your essential functions are always just a touch away. Whether you’re in a bustling studio or a compact project space, the S3 fits seamlessly, providing a streamlined workflow for faster and more efficient results. Its premium components—borrowed from the flagship S6 console—offer a tactile experience, combining high-resolution faders and OLED displays for precise control and feedback.

Perfect for both up-and-coming producers and seasoned veterans, the Pro Tools | S3 offers a dynamic solution that adapts to your evolving needs. Whether you're mixing a complex session or capturing a live performance, this versatile control surface ensures you have the tools to create, innovate, and excel.

Key Features:

  • EUCON-enabled control surface for seamless DAW integration
  • Built-in 4 x 6 AVB audio interface for direct recording and monitoring
  • Compact and ergonomic design suitable for any studio environment
  • Customizable mixer layouts with instant recall functionality
  • High-quality components for a premium tactile experience
  • Compatible with Pro Tools, Cubase, Logic Pro, and more
  • Streamlined workflow for enhanced productivity and creativity

FAQs

How many channels does the Avid Pro Tools | S3 control surface support?

The Avid Pro Tools | S3 features 16 channel strips, each equipped with a touch-sensitive, motorized fader and a 10-segment signal level meter.

What types of displays are included on the Avid Pro Tools | S3?

The Avid Pro Tools | S3 includes 32 high-resolution OLED displays that provide detailed information such as track names, metering data, parameter values, and automation modes.

Can the Avid Pro Tools | S3 be used as an audio interface?

Yes, the Avid Pro Tools | S3 has a built-in 4x6 AVB Core Audio interface, which includes 2 mic/line inputs, 2 line inputs, 4 line outputs, and a stereo headphone output.

Does the Avid Pro Tools | S3 offer transport controls?

The Avid Pro Tools | S3 includes a touch strip for easy access to transport controls and can be used alongside the Artist Transport for full jog/shuttle wheel functionality.

What kind of encoders does the Avid Pro Tools | S3 have?

The Avid Pro Tools | S3 features 32 touch-sensitive, push-button rotary encoders with tricolor LED function indicators for controlling panning, gain, plug-in parameters, and more.

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Avid Pro Tools S3 Control Surface Review - Sweetwater's SoundCheck Vol. 1

Video thumbnail for Avid Pro Tools S3 Control Surface Review - Sweetwater's SoundCheck Vol. 1 by Sweetwater

Avid Pro Tools S3 Control Surface Review - Sweetwater's SoundCheck Vol. 1

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for Introducing Pro Tools | S3 by Avid

Introducing Pro Tools | S3

Avid

Avid

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Avid Pro Tools | S3.

Software and compatibility

  • An Avid-certified Sonnet Ethernet to Thunderbolt adapter is needed for AVB compatibility with MacBook Pro and Avid S3.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Avid S3 functions as a small audio interface with 4 inputs and 6 outputs, including monitoring capabilities.

    Source
  • The Avid S3 supports EuCon protocol, offering advanced integration with Pro Tools, unlike HUI devices which have limited support for features like auto-banking and plugin parameter flipping.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Users experience setup issues with Mac OS not detecting Avid S3, resolved by using AVB-supported Ethernet adapters.

    Source
  • It's advised to use a dedicated network for the Avid S3 to ensure stable connectivity, avoiding shared networks which are reported to be unreliable.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Avid S3's AVB capabilities can be leveraged to connect additional hardware, expanding its utility in complex setups.

    Source

User experience

  • Some users report that the Avid S3 does not consistently appear in EuControl, requiring a power cycle to reset, which can be inconvenient during sessions.

    Source
  • Owners highlight that while physical controllers like the Avid S3 offer tactile benefits, many professionals still prefer using a mouse for plugin control due to ease and speed.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Compared to the SSL UF8, the Avid S3 offers more advanced functionality but can be glitchy, whereas the UF8 is noted for its intuitive operation without needing SSL plugins on each channel.

    Source
  • The Avid Artist series, though discontinued, still functions well with Pro Tools and provides EuCon integration, offering a more affordable alternative to newer Avid controllers.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Avid: Pro Tools S3 & Dock Control Surfaces | Tape Op Magazine | Longform candid interviews with music producers and audio engineers covering mixing, mastering, recording and music production.

tapeop.com

Avid's Pro Tools S3 and Dock offer a sleek and functional control surface with impressive tactile response and integration capabilities, particularly with Pro Tools. Despite their compact design, they sometimes suffer from awkward ergonomics, such as confusing fader button placements and occasional switch responsiveness issues. While the S3's EUCON protocol provides superior resolution over MIDI, its price point feels steep for the offered functionality, especially when compared to more affordable alternatives. The Dock enhances iPad integration but requires an additional investment. Overall, these tools enhance workflow but might not justify their cost for everyone.

Avid Pro Tools S3 Control Surface Studio Review – KMR Audio Hide Element Based on Day and Time

kmraudio.com

The Avid Pro Tools S3 control surface is a compact yet potent addition to any studio setup, especially for those transitioning from older Avid models like Pro Control or Control 24. Its tactile faders, color-coded OLED displays, and customizable Eucon software integration provide a streamlined and efficient workflow for users of Pro Tools and other DAWs. While the compact design may present some visibility challenges, and some features feel like a carryover from live control applications, the S3's robust build and flexible functionality make it a worthy contender. Ideal for those willing to invest time in mastering its controls, the S3 offers a hands-on, intuitive mixing experience.

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Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike uses Avid Pro Tools | S3

Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

In the third episode of ''Being Like Mike'', the items he use can be seen at (2:34), (7:51) and (8:20).

See how Trevor Morris uses Avid Pro Tools | S3

Trevor Morris

Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

In this youtube video of Trevor's studio, the S3 can be seen at 2:13

See how Dave Clauss uses Avid Pro Tools | S3

Dave Clauss

Audio Engineer

...
Verified via YouTube

In the YouTube video "Epic MIXING Home Studio Setup 2024 | Dave Clauss (studio tour)" by Andrew Masters, at 2:11, Dave Clauss is seen using an Avid Pro Tools | S3 Control Surface on his work desk. He further discusses the equipment at the 27:11 mark.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Avid Pro Tools | S3, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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1

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