Steinberg Unveil CMC Modular Controller Range
Steinberg have been a very busy bunch of late, but despite recently announcing Sequel 3, and two spanking new audio interfaces (the UR-28M and the UR-824), they are not content, and have launched the Steinberg CMC Modular Controller range. DAW (digital audio workstation) controllers have evolved drastically in the years since their first appearance. Now, rather than being a ‘luxury’ for the home studio, they fast becoming an essential item. Whilst there are a huge number of controllers now available, many can seem over complicated, or, because they are designed for all DAW’s, don’t fit your needs exactly without spending considerable time mapping controllers. But, if Cubase is your DAW of choice, the Steinberg CMC Controller range may be the answer to your prayers…
Compact, Modular Design
There are 6 different models in the Steinberg CMC range, and, you may have gathered it is a modular system, specifically designed for Cubase. Each model controls a particular aspect of Cubase ‘s operation, with a system that can combine up to a maximum of nine units. USB powered, ultra light and compact, simplicity was key concept in the design process of the CMC range.
Steinberg CMC-CH
The Steinberg CMC-CH is a channel controller. Each of its illuminated buttons mirrors a control from Cubase channel strip, and features the same symbols that you see on the screen. An accurate, touch fader with visual feedback allows precise level control. In addition, the CMC-CH features eight user assignable buttons and one knob
Steinberg CMC-FD
The Steinberg CMC-FD features a bank of four, high precision touch faders. Using the shift key whilst tapping a fader allows the user to toggle between solo and mute modes on the channel. The unit also features bank up and down and channel up and down buttons, and up four CMC-FD ‘s can be connected simultaneously.
Steinberg CMC-PD
Based around 16 velocity sensitive pads, the Steinberg CMC-PD is designed specifically with programming drum patterns in mind. The bundled CMC-PD editor software allows for easy set-up according to which drum software package you are choosing to use with it, but the unit is pre installed with templates for Steinberg’s own software. A great feature of the CMC-PD is the Pad LEDs. These change colour according to the velocity with which you hit them.
Steinberg CMC-TP
The Steinberg CMC-TP mirrors the transport section of Cubase. With innovative touch strip controller for Jog and Shuttle functions, each of the transport sections major controls has a dedicated button on the unit’s front panel. In addition, the CMC-TP has four user assignable function buttons.
Steinberg CMC-QC
With its bank of eight rotary controls, the Steinberg CMC-QC is designed primarily as a controller for channel EQ, with each corresponding to a Tweak-able parameter. However, the unit can be used to control nearly any effect plug-in when switched to MIDI mode, and the included editor software is used. The CMC-QC features an additional eight user-assignable function buttons.
Steinberg CMC-AI
The final piece of the jigsaw, the Steinberg CMC-AI provides immediate, hands on control, via Steinberg ‘s AI technology. Allowing parameters selected by the computer mouse to be instantly adjusted, this unit is ideal for making dramatic effects or parameter sweeps without having to spends hours creating controller maps. In addition to the AI knob, the CMC-AI features 4-user assignable function buttons.
The Beauty of the Steinberg CMC range is that they can be bought as they are required, and thus, a modular system can be configured according to your needs. There are no confirmed prices as yet, but these should be available in October. Call our stores or customer service team (01925 582420) for information. To get all the latest product announcements and offers, sign up to our newsletter (see above).
**UPDATE… Julien at Steinberg has called to let us know that the expected RRP. prices for the CMC controllers is £136 inc VAT for all except the CMC-FD fader controller, which is expected to have an RRP. of £168. In addition, there is now an interactive web app, wihich demostrates what each units controls are for. Thanks Julien!
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