ICON QCon EX

When a DAW mix needs more directly accessible channels, the ICON QCon EX as a fader extension adds eight touch-sensitive, motorised channel strips to the QCon Pro. The faders follow the project’s levels and automation settings; when you touch them, you can take direct control of automation. Up to three extensions can be used to expand a QCon Pro system to a total of 32 channels.

Each channel strip has a 12-segment LED level meter and illuminated buttons for record enable, solo, mute, select and monitor. The eight dual-function encoders can be turned and pressed: depending on the DAW, you can use them to control parameters such as pan, send levels or plug-in settings. An 11-segment LED ring indicates the current encoder position.

The illuminated, tiltable LCD displays channel names, control values and feedback for selected channels or operating modes. An additional 12-segment display shows the project position in SMPTE or BBT format. Use the jog wheel to locate and control the playback position; the transport buttons handle play, stop, record, rewind, fast forward and loop. A zoom button and four direction buttons provide additional navigation.

Mackie Control is available for controlling Cubase, Nuendo, Samplitude, Logic Pro and Ableton Live, while Mackie HUI is available for Pro Tools. Other DAWs can be set up using MIDI Learn mode. The class-compliant connection is via USB 2.0; the power supply must also be connected for operation, as USB bus power is not sufficient. Two pedal connections, 18 freely assignable buttons and nine illuminated, assignable MIDI function buttons expand the control options.

This model adds to an existing QCon Pro setup when you need more motorised faders for working in the DAW mixer. DAW-specific overlays for Cubase, Nuendo, Samplitude, Logic Pro and Ableton Live help you identify the controls; firmware updates are available via USB and the iMap software. The casing is made of aluminium and metal and has a Kensington lock slot.