iCON Pro Audio has implemented direct protocol-level support for Sound Devices 8-Series field recorders, enabling the P1-M motorized fader controller to operate as an external control surface for the 833, 888, and Scorpio.
Integration Architecture
The P1-M communicates with 8-Series mixers over USB MIDI, using Sound Devices’ published controller command set. This allows the unit to transmit and receive parameter changes without translation layers or intermediary software. The mixer recognizes the P1-M as a control surface and exchanges bi-directional messages in real time.
Supported Control Functions
The current implementation provides direct access to the following 8-Series parameters:
- Channel Fader Control – The P1-M’s motorized fader writes level changes to the selected channel and receives motor position updates from the recorder. Fader movement is sample-accurate with no stepping artifacts.
- Channel Arming / Disarming – Record-enable states are toggled on the P1-M and mirrored on the 8-Series UI.
- Bank Switching – Multi-channel environments (833/888/Scorpio) allow paging through channel banks directly from the controller.
- Transport Control – Standard transport commands (Record, Stop, Play) are supported and mapped to the P1-M hardware buttons.
- Trim / Gain Adjustment – Rotary encoders on the P1-M can be assigned to input trim or other channel parameters defined by the 8-Series controller mapping.
Feedback & Synchronization
The 8-Series continuously streams controller feedback to the P1-M, enabling:
- Real-time motorized fader position updates
- Immediate visual alignment between hardware and mixer state
- Accurate representation of channel levels when banks are switched
This ensures the controller surface remains synchronized with the recorder at all times without requiring manual resets or refresh operations.
Physical Deployment
The P1-M retains full functionality in both bag-based and cart-based workflows. Power can be provided through USB or external sources depending on the rig. The low-profile chassis allows mounting adjacent to the recorder without obstructing screen or knob access.
Use Cases
The integration is targeted at production sound mixers who require:
- A single high-precision motorized fader for primary mix control
- A compact physical interface that adds minimal overhead to a bag rig
- A hardware surface that provides tactile accuracy when working without a cart-size mixer panel
- Reliable level and arming control under fast production conditions
Summary
The addition of Sound Devices 8-Series support positions the iCON P1-M as a practical, protocol-compliant control accessory for field recording environments. It offers hardware-level precision fader control, responsive feedback, and a minimal-footprint alternative to larger mixing panels, while maintaining full compatibility with existing 8-Series workflows.
