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Price History
Based on price data from 2 merchants for "Avid S3". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 3, 2026.
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Description
Unleash your creativity with the Avid S3, the compact yet powerful DAW controller designed for musicians and audio professionals who demand precision without compromise. Inspired by the acclaimed Pro Tools | S6, the S3 offers a highly sophisticated interface that combines the best of traditional console layouts with cutting-edge digital features, enabling you to sculpt your sound with unparalleled control and precision.
Ideal for small studios and mobile setups, the S3's sleek design doesn't sacrifice functionality. Its EUCON technology ensures seamless integration with all your favorite DAWs, including Pro Tools, Logic Pro, and Cubase. This allows you to switch between applications in seconds, keeping your workflow smooth and uninterrupted. The 16 touch-sensitive motorized faders and 32 touch-sensitive rotary encoders provide tactile control over your mixes, offering a hands-on approach that a mouse simply can't match.
The S3 also features a built-in 4-input, 6-output AVB Core Audio interface, allowing you to record and monitor sessions directly through the surface, streamlining your setup and maximizing your studio space. With its ergonomic design and intuitive controls, you'll receive instant visual feedback from the vibrant OLED displays, making complex mix adjustments a breeze.
Key Features:
- 16 touch-sensitive, motorized faders for precise control
- 32 touch-sensitive rotary encoders with OLED displays
- Built-in 4-input, 6-output AVB Core Audio interface
- Seamless EUCON integration with multiple DAWs
- Compact, ergonomic design for any studio space
- Application-aware functionality for quick DAW switching
- Supports up to 12 custom mixer layouts for personalized workflows
Product specs
| Brand | Avid |
| Model | S3 16-Fader Pro Tools Control Surface |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 2010s |
| Categories | Audio Mixers, Consoles and Summing Boxes |
FAQs
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Is the Avid S3 compatible with other DAWs besides Pro Tools?
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Yes, the Avid S3 is EUCON-enabled, allowing it to integrate with various DAWs beyond Pro Tools, such as Logic Pro, Cubase, and more, offering versatile control options.
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How many faders does the Avid S3 have?
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The Avid S3 features 16 touch-sensitive motorized faders, providing precise control over your mix and session parameters.
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Does the Avid S3 have a built-in audio interface?
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Yes, the Avid S3 includes a built-in audio interface, offering streamlined recording and monitoring capabilities directly from the control surface.
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What are the primary connectivity options for the Avid S3?
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The Avid S3 connects via Ethernet, utilizing EUCON technology for high-speed communication and integration with compatible DAWs.
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Is the Avid S3 suitable for live sound applications?
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While primarily designed for studio use, the Avid S3 can be used in live sound environments where a compact and efficient control surface is needed.
Videos
Sound On Sound magazine
Avid S3 Control Surface - AES 2014
Reviews
PROS
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Responsive and solid-feeling surface
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Reduces reliance on mouse and keyboard
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Plugins map nicely to encoders for easy tweaking
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High build quality
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Powerful and flexible controller/console
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Compatible with Cubase and works with Artist Control
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Offers a tactile experience with faders and knobs
CONS
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High price point, perceived as overpriced
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Lacks transport controls on the surface itself
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Limited control room functionality for Windows users
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Requires additional purchase (Avid Dock) for full functionality
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Avid S3.
Software and compatibility
Features and functionality
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Users can map Apollo faders to the S3 and plugin knobs to Monogram, but specific port settings and configuration in UA Midi Control are necessary.
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The Avid S3 includes monitoring capabilities with 4 inputs and 6 outputs, making it a modest audio interface suitable for additional hardware connections.
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Setup and maintenance
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To control Inserts and Sends, assign parameters to unused MIDI-sending buttons on the S3 through UA Midi Control's Mackie settings.
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User experience
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Locking the S3 to an application via EuControl Settings limits the ability to control the DAW until the lock is reversed.
Source
4.5 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 4 Ratings
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.