It’s funny how things work out sometimes. Within days of each other, two niche products get announced that are pretty similar in makeup and more or less aimed at the same market. First was the Novation Launch Control XL, and today word arrives about the Livid’s official launch of their DS1 MIDI mixer.
In fairness to Livid, they were first to get the word out. The DJWORX team spent time at Livid’s NAMM base to check out the DS1 prototype. And with the feedback being all positive, Livid has hit the go button and is taking pre-orders. But hey, let’s have some words from Livid about it:
Introducing DS1
Portable, Mixing, Control.
We are officially announcing the Ds1 and now accepting pre-orders. The Ds1 MIDI mixer is a rugged, portable solution for computer-based mixing, production and performance, constructed with only the highest quality parts and materials. Ds1 introduces MIDI control to the familiar layout of an analog audio mixer, and expands the creative possibilities of signal routing and sound processing using digital audio workstations. It’s your hands-on, dedicated controller for instant access to your mix, effects, and instrument parameters.
Key hardware features:
The Ds1 simply works with any software that supports MIDI. Templates will be available for digital audio workstations such as Ableton Live, Bitwig Studio, Logic and more. Whether you are mixing in the studio, performing on stage, or travelling to a gig, the Ds1 is designed to fit into your setup and lifestyle. Its rugged aluminum build and open approach to software integration will protect your investment for years to come.
Specifications
– 9 faders (60mm)
– 44 rotary knobs
– 4 push encoders
– 25 RGB backlit buttons
– USB powered class-compliant MIDI
– Expression pedal input
– Ultra light and heavy-duty aluminum construction
– Designed and assembled in Austin, TX USA
– 12” x 12.25” x 1” (30.48 cm x 31.1 cm x 2.5 cm)
– 4.4 lbs (2 Kg)
It’s interesting to see that the LED display didn’t make it to the final product, and has been replaced by four push encoders. I imagine that some real world testing showed that people wanted more controls and would most probably use a laptop screen for such things anyway.
I could waffle on about the DS1, but for those interested in such a unit, it’s quite self explanatory. But you’ll want to know the price. Back at NAMM, they said “under $500”, and they were right. The Livid DS1 comes in at $479. That is three times the price of the Launch Control XL, but it’s handmade in the US and largely out of metal. Trust me – Livid Instruments are lovely.
GALLERY
