Avid’s modular control surface ecosystem presents a huge number of permutations for potential users. Being able to visualize your facility’s console before it lands is essential if the most is to be had from it.

For many, the control surface represents the epitome of the best of both studio worlds. Audio arguments aside, having big console ergonomics with complete DAW control and absolute, instant session recall is a combo that is hard to beat, and an entirely different experience from the old days of having a mixing console (and monitoring!) off to one side while driving the DAW with a keyboard and mouse. The S4 and S6 control surfaces are Avid’s scalable systems offering total integration with Pro Tools and other DAWs via EUCON.

Avid S6

Unbelievably, Avid’s S6 console has been with us since 2013 when it replaced the longstanding ICON family of surfaces with a more flexible, scalable solution in keeping with the ever-shifting requirements of the post and music industries. This complete redesign of Avid’s professional control surface range expanded greatly on the old ICON building blocks comprising D-control, D-Command, and full-depth channel expanders for each. At its smallest, an 8 fader D-Command system was small by large format console standards, yet was too big for those seeking a ‘just right’ solution for whom the Artist series was too limited.

The first of Avid’s ‘proper’ ICON replacements came in the form of the S6 which was available in frame sizes of varying width (configured in Feet) and depth in the form of the M10 and M40 chassis depths. These provided the base into which a system of networked modules could be dropped, comprising faders, buttons, knobs, post-specific controls, and meterbridge style displays, as well as producer desks and keyboard trays, all centred around central Master Touch and Automation Modules with integrated transport and comms.

Avid S4

2019 saw Avid’s S4 make its debut, with fewer base options than S6, and its own brand new integrated Channel Strip Module (CSM) bringing faders, knobs, and buttons into one unit. Four base configurations are available across 3 foot, 4 foot, and two 5 foot configurations.

Dropping the M10 and M40 terminology, the S6 currently has 16 frames to choose from, spread across 2 depths (5 or 9 knob), plus 8 widths (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 foot). Combined with a large number of modules to choose from there’s a configuration to suit any facility. While offering a similar footprint to a shorter 5 knob S6, the current S4 differs in its feature set.

Qvest Avid S4/S6 Configurator

Navigating all the available options has been made much easier with a new online tool that allows potential users to visualise their surface having first decided on its functionality. German reseller Qvest’s Avid S4/S6 Configurator is a useful way to make sure your console will fulfil your needs or those of your facility with an easy ‘bird’s-eye view’ of your would-be console. Simply select S4 or S6, its frame size, the module type from the lower area, then click the blank module slots in the location you want. Qvest then email a confirmation of your configuration pending a quote from them.

From independent single operators, to large post production houses with multiple rooms, being able to visualise your system preemptively is a great ergonomic aid that, in conjunction with a consultation, will help you make the best decision in getting the surface that’s right for you.