The PreSonus FaderPort 8 DAW Control Surface contains eight touch-sensitive motorised faders and eight high definition scribble strip displays, making it idea for use with any digital audio workstation. The FaderPort 8 offers precise tactile control over mix and automation functions. With eight 100mm faders and 57 buttons covering 78 different functions, you can zoom in on audio files for editing, adjust your click-track tempo with a tap, modify plug-in parameters, manage aux mixes, and control track levels with the touch of a finger.
The FaderPort 8 augments the way you currently mix. Large, illuminated buttons make finding the function you need quick and easy. Eight high-definition digital scribble strips provide visual feedback. The FaderPort 8's unique Session Navigator provides easy access to eight mission-critical functions for maximum flexibility. Dedicated buttons are provided to instantly arm all tracks for recording; control mutes and Solo Clear; view only the tracks, buses, and VCAs you want. Four programmable User buttons let you quickly and easily access your favorite functions.
The main features of the PreSonus FaderPort 8 DAW Control Surface include:
The FaderPort 8 comes with a bundled copy of Studio One (Artist); both are made by Presonus meaning the two are very tightly integrated. The unit has different modes so it can be used with other DAWs, but I’ve been using it with Studio One.
I’ve not used other control surfaces before (so I don’t have anything to compare it against), and I make music as a pastime, but I really like the FaderPort 8. I like the convenience of having dedicated hardware controls for various features in my DAW and I prefer using the hardware faders instead of using the mouse in my DAW to control the volume of various tracks. The build quality seems good and the faders are smooth. I would have preferred the panning control to rotate smoothly, but the ‘notches’ are not really a problem; it’s possible to temporarily assign panning to the faders if needed/preferred.
My unit was packed with a defective USB cable but has been very reliable once switched with another cable. The overall experience may be different if used with another DAW, but I would highly recommend the FaderPort 8 if you’re using Studio One.