Pricing and availability

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Amazon
3.0 (1)
$54.99
Reverb
5.0 (11)
$2,881.81 5 available Used
Pro Audio Design
$4,999.00
Sonic Circus
$4,999.00

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

Is the Avid S3 compatible with other DAWs besides Pro Tools?

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.

How many faders does the Avid S3 have?

The Avid S3 features 16 touch-sensitive motorized faders, providing precise control over your mix and session parameters.

Does the Avid S3 have a built-in audio interface?

Yes, the Avid S3 includes a built-in audio interface, offering streamlined recording and monitoring capabilities directly from the control surface.

What are the primary connectivity options for the Avid S3?

The Avid S3 connects via Ethernet, utilizing EUCON technology for high-speed communication and integration with compatible DAWs.

Is the Avid S3 suitable for live sound applications?

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.

Sound On Sound magazine

Sound On Sound magazine

Avid S3 Control Surface - AES 2014

Video thumbnail for Avid S3 Control Surface - AES 2014 by Sound On Sound magazine

Avid S3 Control Surface - AES 2014

Sound On Sound magazine

Sound On Sound magazine

Video thumbnail for 1. Quick Tips for Avid Pro Tools | S3 - S3 Surface Overview by Avid

1. Quick Tips for Avid Pro Tools | S3 - S3 Surface Overview

Avid

Avid

Video thumbnail for AVID S3, Pro Tools Dock and MTRX | Control Surfaces and Interfaces | Vintage King by Vintage King

AVID S3, Pro Tools Dock and MTRX | Control Surfaces and Interfaces | Vintage King

Vintage King

Vintage King

Video thumbnail for Avid S3 + Dock Integrated Workflows: Automation by Avid Pro Tools

Avid S3 + Dock Integrated Workflows: Automation

Avid Pro Tools

Avid Pro Tools

Video thumbnail for Tipps & Tricks | Avid Pro Tools | S3 AVB Interface | German Deutsch by Avid Deutschland

Tipps & Tricks | Avid Pro Tools | S3 AVB Interface | German Deutsch

Avid Deutschland

Avid Deutschland

Reviews

PROS

  • Responsive and solid-feeling surface

  • Reduces reliance on mouse and keyboard

  • Plugins map nicely to encoders for easy tweaking

  • High build quality

  • Powerful and flexible controller/console

  • Compatible with Cubase and works with Artist Control

  • Offers a tactile experience with faders and knobs

CONS

  • High price point, perceived as overpriced

  • Lacks transport controls on the surface itself

  • Limited control room functionality for Windows users

  • 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

  • The Avid S3 requires Mackie mode for DAW control; it's been noted to work with Ableton and Logic but not with Cubase or Luna.

    Source
  • AVB setup issues with the Avid S3 on Mac OS may require using an Avid-certified Sonnet Ethernet to Thunderbolt adapter for proper functionality.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • 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.

    Source
  • The Avid S3 includes monitoring capabilities with 4 inputs and 6 outputs, making it a modest audio interface suitable for additional hardware connections.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • To control Inserts and Sends, assign parameters to unused MIDI-sending buttons on the S3 through UA Midi Control's Mackie settings.

    Source

User experience

  • Locking the S3 to an application via EuControl Settings limits the ability to control the DAW until the lock is reversed.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The S3's AVB capability is useful for connecting additional audio hardware, expanding its utility beyond just a DAW controller.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 4 Ratings

5 star
4 star
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1 star

Genre Usage

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

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