Pricing and availability
* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.
Description
In a world where digital reigns supreme, the Livid Instruments DS1 MIDI mixer offers a refreshing blend of classic control and modern versatility. Designed through a collaboration with Dubspot, a leader in electronic music education, the DS1 is the perfect solution for musicians and producers craving intuitive, tactile interaction with their DAWs. This robust controller is crafted from ultra-light yet heavy-duty aluminum, ensuring it's both portable and durable, ideal for both studio sessions and live performances.
With nine 60mm faders and 44 rotary knobs, the DS1 gives you the freedom to sculpt your sound with precision. Its 25 RGB backlit buttons and four push encoders provide seamless navigation and control, while customizable knob colors and seven assignable color modes let you tailor the interface to your unique workflow. Whether you're a Logic Pro maestro or an Ableton Live enthusiast, the DS1's class-compliant MIDI design ensures compatibility with any software that supports MIDI, making it an indispensable tool for any digital musician.
Key Features:
- Nine 60mm faders (8 channels + 1 main)
- 44 backlit rotary knobs with customizable colors
- 25 RGB backlit buttons
- Four push encoders
- Expression pedal input
- Compatible with any software that supports MIDI
- USB powered; requires AC adapter (not included) for full LED illumination
- Ultra-light, heavy-duty aluminum construction
- Designed and built in Austin, TX
Videos
lividTV
Livid Instruments DS1 MIDI Mixer
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Livid Instruments DS1.
Build quality
-
The first fader can be noisy, especially near an AC adapter, causing jumpy CC signals.
Source
Setup and maintenance
Software and compatibility
-
Some units work without issues on macOS Big Sur, skipping Catalina, suggesting possible compatibility limitations with certain macOS versions.
Source -
Firmware updates require the device to be in Boot Loader mode, but accessing the Builder software for this can lead to Error 404 issues.
Source -
Direct connection via a USB type B-to-USB C cable resolves issues with MacBook connectivity; USB hubs can cause communication failures.
Source
User experience
-
Some DS-1 units were dead on arrival, indicating potential variability in quality control from Livid Instruments.
Source
Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 2 Reviews and 9 Ratings
Very nice if you need a controller for mixing
5 rotaries and 2 pad + a fader (and everything times 8-strips) and 4endless encoder + 4 rotary controller + 9 pads + a master fader. It makes a really nice tool and gives some controls. One downside is, that the leds DO NOT! change colour via computer BUT! there are coloured rings you can put between encoder + light. Problem is, those lenses are no longer available. If you find them anywhere, do not hesitate to contact me ! (Because coloured controlls would be great for setting this up live in combination with a laptop + ableton push)
Artist usage
Add artist
His instagram picture indicates him using the Livid Instruments DS1 during his live gigs as his standard setup.
Robert Babicz is shown using the Livid Instruments DS1 in a photo on his official Facebook page, demonstrating his integration of this MIDI controller into his setup.
In a live performance captured and shared by MayanWarrior on YouTube during the Burning Man event in 2022, Parra for Cuva can be seen utilizing the Livid Instruments DS1, a MIDI DAW Controller, as part of his musical setup. The video, titled "Parra for Cuva (live) - Mayan Warrior - Burning Man 2022," provides visual evidence of the artist's gear choice for this notable performance.
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 Livid Instruments DS1, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
More Livid DAW Controllers
Accessories & Related Items
Community setups
Similar
Most Popular DAW Controllers
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
JjohnexampleGear IQ 262
-