Alesis MasterControl

MasterControl will be on display at the 2009 NAMM Show in Anaheim, Calif., January 15 — 18, 2009 at the Alesis booth.

MasterControl provides engineers with 44.1 — 192kHz-recording capability via FireWire and control of HUI-compatible DAWs and external MIDI devices.

The input section consists of two XLR inputs with phantom power and channel inserts, six TRS line inputs and expansion capability. Twenty six simultaneous inputs are possible with the optional S/PDIF and dual S/MUX ADAT Lightpipe inputs. Six analog outputs are configurable for use with 5.1 surround, three sets of stereo pairs or six outputs. MasterControl offers dedicated speaker switching, enabling mix engineers to select between multiple monitors to check their mixes on different speakers or in different rooms. A stereo headphone output is also provided for an additional mix reference.

Each channel contains dedicated Solo, Record Enable, Mute and Select buttons for access to the most essential channel functions. The multifunction jog wheel can be used to shuttle, zoom and enter data. Nine 100mm-motorized faders and a dedicated transport-control section provide access to the recording operations. Two banks of eight assignable buttons enable users to customize functionality for commonly used actions such as markers, loop points and automation modes.

Eight assignable virtual potentiometers with three banks each enable engineers to control 24 different parameters to control DAWs. Removable, customizable templates provide a visual overview of all preset operations.

Designed as a solution for studios’ recording and mixing needs, MasterControl contains a talkback microphone, a MIDI interface and a Preview button enabling review of knob, button and fader settings before sending them to the DAW software.

MasterControl comes bundled with Steinberg Cubase LE 4 and Ableton Live Lite 7.

Pricing & Availability
MasterControl is available from pro audio and musical instrument retailers.
MSRP: $1,299.
Street Price: $899.99.

For more information, visit their web site at www.alesis.com.