I love that you mentioned all the controllers you decided against buying! Great info for other potential buyers. I was given a Mackie Universal for free so I am quite happy with that. But I have to replace a fader.
Excellent and detailed review! I just received my Behringer X-Touch and I can say that I will certainly send it back because of the stuttering and noisy faders on X-Touch and you can't choose proper fader's speed like you can with Icon M+ (and G2 pro I suppose?), very well explain from 5'30 in this video!!! Behringer didn't do nothing for that
Amazong review! :D finally somebody that has some knowledge andsomething to say, not another 10 years old kid reading the manual and showing us how to take the device from the box and connect up the USB plug :D WELL DONE :D I just tuned my unit... considering also the script for the encoders... :D not that I use them too much ... but it would be a nice project to get the right curve based on the number of "Ticks" received / time
This is the best and most reliable review about the Platform M+! Could you please show in another video how you did with the masking tape around the LEDs/buttons?
Thank you! I haven't done a video on that! Maybe these photos can help (the only difference is I did it on the inside): disk.yandex.ru/d/gh1i6U4N3akirR
Hey, I haven't made a video on that. But if you know Arduino and how to solder you should work it out. My text tutorial may help: tiny.cc/nshhez There's more about custom LCD in the end.
I have one of these and like it, but I don't like the way the display handles the channel strip tags. When you have a lot of tracks with long names the screen looks weird. I use it in Reason 10 and just moved over to Ableton... and am finding that it looks even stranger in Ableton... because it shows if you have a clip on a track above the track name. I love what you did with your custom display... yes!!! I total get what you did!
Yep, I use it regularly, since then. It's ok with all those things I've mentions in this video. The knobs are not much usable cause they "jump" sometimes (the values change unexpectedly). The faders and buttons are ok. Overall I'm glad I have it, it's a convenient tool that doesn't take much space and is affordable.
@@letimix My apologies for not responding - I did not see your response. Since my question I acquired a MODX 7 and it gives you around 12 inches of table space to your right. I might just fabricate a shelve for a controller, instead of using the top of the MODX. I am not seeing any good controllers which are under $500.00. Thumbs up and subscribed.
Was taking this apart and taping the buttons so they don't bleed into each other particularly difficult or time consuming? I'm thinking about doing the same to mine but I don't want to damage it.
How did you make the bezell for the DIY screen? I have an arduino & 4 LCD screens that I'm about to wire up, would like to know how you managed that part and what materials you used.
It was a black plastic corner from the hardware store. Just took two corners and make a box out of them. The hardest part was to make "windows" in it with very thin pieces between them. And couple of thin metal plates bended and used as holders.
@@letimix thanks for the response. So after watching this, it seems as though you aren't plugging your DIY screen directly into the Platform M+, correct? Are you using two USB chords, one for your screen (arduino) adn the other for the controller?
@@jonq8714 Definitely. I'm parsing MIDI data from Cubase via Autohotkey script and send a text to Arduino via COM-Port (all the text on the screen really goes from Cubase). You can find some instructions and downloads (there's an Arduino sketch inside) in this tutorial (see at the bottom): docs.google.com/document/d/1YvE29eESlStcKyA0OG728siU48ixVbrZaBg6i3zWrNA/edit# Good luck!
@@letimix Thanks for your reply. Pretty weird though, they advertise with pictures with red, blue, green buttons.. www.bax-shop.nl/midi-studio-controllers/icon-platform-x-usb-daw-expander-voor-m?gclid=CjwKCAiAmO3gBRBBEiwA8d0Q4p03alW-PTZHfDBLAf80K4mH5HLlMEVo6ya1or95W6PizE4m9aTSChoCLFkQAvD_BwE
I was looking for a controller for Cubase. This info was very interesting because you also looked at other controllers to compare. All in all, the price is very modest and I am going to order one. I was in doubt between the Steinberg controller and this controller, but your explanation gives me enough insight to make the step to this controller. I am also a programmer and I studied electronics. If you can give me a tip to make the display. What I need etc. I would also really appreciate that.
Hey, Fred! Glad you liked it. You can get some instructions on making LCD screen here: docs.google.com/document/d/1YvE29eESlStcKyA0OG728siU48ixVbrZaBg6i3zWrNA/edit?usp=sharing
@@letimix Thank you very much for your quick reply. I have briefly reviewed the description. Apparently it is well described. Making something like this yourself is always more satisfying than ready-made items, which you cannot control! I have enough time (pension), and can put it together quietly and carefully. With us here the shops will open again today, due to the lockdown and so I can also buy parts. But like I said. I have time (retirement) and can take it easy. The most important has already been completed! The info to make it happen. Thank you for that, and have a nice day; Fred
@@letimix Best Letmix I have meanwhile purchased the Icon M + platform and connected it to Cubase which is configured for the Yamaha Genos. Everything functions properly. I do not know the finesse yet, but I find it very annoying that there are music tones where produced when I press the keys! I would like to turn off that sound or at least reduce it in volume. The manual is very brief and I have not seen any information for that item yet. Do you have experience with this, and possibly a solution. Your explanation has already helped me a long way 👍, but I still need to gain some experience to work properly with it. Greetings Fred
@@swpderf Yes, it's probably because you have a VST-instrument that gets MIDI from "All MIDI inputs", and so plays MIDI received from your controller too (cause it's basically a motorized MIDI-keyboard). You can remove controller from "All MIDI inputs" in Cubase Settings (smth. like Studio Setup -> MIDI devices) or just choose only your midi keyboard as your midi input for your track (not "all midi inputs").
I accidentally updated the m+ controller with the x+ software update. Now the m+ comes up as an X+ controller and doesn’t work. I did a master reset on the m+ but it still comes up as an X+ controller. Any suggestions on what to do?
Hi. Great video. Any chance you would show in a new video on how you soldered the LEDs and how you blocked the light with tape to not light up the neighboring buttons? I’m going to do it also - bought the LEDs you suggested - but concerned I’m going to mess up. This $300+ board. I have experience with soldering but would sure love any tips, tricks, etc., if not a full explanation. Thanks
Hey, Chris. I was lucky to have a soldering fan, so I unsoldered the old LEDs with hot air and soldered the new ones with a bit of patience and normal/small soldering iron. Considering blocking the light you can get my idea from these photos (the tape should be inside, of course): yadi.sk/d/gh1i6U4N3akirR
Trying to set up Platform M+ faders with Kontakt 5. Vibrato, dynamic and expression. But it seems as if kontakt 5 wont update the new data from the platform M software. Any faders that I touch or try to assign to a CC just gets shown as active CC 117 on MIDI Automation and wont work. Despite the new saved and sent data to the device. Please help!
Yes, in Cubase. It's a feature of a full version of script. Try installing the basic (free) version dl.ilyaorlov.ru/other/AHK_Platform_M_mods_basic_180402.zip If it works for you, email me for the full version.
The (pitchfader) resolution drops when you used it in custom mode unfortunately. So it keeps sending the lower byte to 0 all the time. If you use it in Cubase mode it will send both bytes and you get the high resolution. I find a bit sad and annoying. It's not a perfect mixer, but still really good and I prefer it over the Artist Mix.
Hi! In my case faders follow well the volume automation (Cubase 7.5) as well as send levels automation (in Send FX mode). Maybe something's wrong with your controller? Do buttons receive information about soloed/muted/selected channels (do the light up accordingly?)
Hi thank you so much for your reply, but I'm talking about the User Defined Mode and not the Cubase Mode , because indeed they work well. But I'm using the M+ faders for automating Dynamics,Expression,Vibration of orchestral instruments , so I have to assign the faders in User Defined Mode.
I think you should check what your computer is sending to Platform M+ (use some software for MIDI-Port monitoring, like MIDI-OX). Cause Platform M just reacts to incoming data, no matter in what mode (as I think). If your orchestral software sends back data about faders position - Platform M will move them.
Reaper has some support for Mackie Control Unversal, so it'll work (I just tested it, it shows channel names and faders react to changes). Though I don't how deeply is Mackie Control supported is in Reaper - you should read manual on that. On the first look Cubase has a much much deeper integration, and Reaper seems to be very basic about it (though I haven't read Reaper manual on that).
Hey man, Nice vid. I have a quick question. I have a Platform M+ and the faders have gone from volume control to pan control and i don't know why? Any idea? I have not changed any setting on the M+ and have looked online but found nothing.
Hey, this is most likely not the Platform M+ but your DAW has switched to "Flip" mode (there's such command on Mackie controller). Try to restart you DAW and check that your "Mackie input" in your DAW doesn't receive any other MIDI-messages from other controllers and keyboards (that could accidently turn on "Flip" mode, which is midi note #50 (D3))
@@letimix Thanks so much for your help :-) Worked a treat. Never seen that before nor worked out how it happened but now know how to fix if it happens again.. Really appreciate it .
I think it should work with most of software that supports Mackie Control protocol. I've tried in Vegas 14 - yes it can be configured and used. Though the functionality depends on the software you're using.
I have a problem with my Platform M+ connected with Cubase or Studio one. Selecting with with the mouse the tracks on the daws the platformM+ recognizes only the 8 tracks . but if for example I select the track number 32 on the daws( with the mouse), the platform M+ does not recognize the relative track (fader) Only if I press the BANKS button 3 time I can see the track 32 on the Platform. any help ? many thanks in advance
That's not a bug, it's the way this controller is supposed to work! You have to manually switch (with "BANKS" buttons) and select which channels you're having now on your controller.
Hi, Wonderful video ! With Platform m+ can you mix track far appart like say track #1 and #48 ? How does that work (or not...) Can you select them in your daw and display them side by side on the platform M+ ?
@@letimix ho wonderful thanks. And do you now how you do that ? I see nothing in the manual. I had order accidentally a platfomrl x+ and i could only display 1-8 in Nuendo no matter what i tried. I returned it and really want to be cautious about this function because it's the only one i need basically.
@@moreausylvain, in Cubase when you open MixConsole (F3 by default) you can filter which channels to show (visibility filters). The Mackie device shows the same set of channels that you make visible in MixConsole. So you can make (temporarily) visible only channels you need and they will be close to each other on Mackie device (Platform M or X in this case).
@@letimix amazing. Probably i tried only visibility in edit window and not mix console. I'll order a M+ and then maybe i'll update the leds like you did and the select button (wich makes sense). Any links where you describe further your Arduino display ?
@@moreausylvain Hey, good luck! If you've ever made Arduino + LCD devices, try to connect 4 of LCDs to one Arduino, and when you're done, contact me. If you haven't, try with one Arduino + 1 LCD (I used simple, not I2C LCDs), there are a lot of tutorials on the net. When you achieve that you'll need a way to send data from PC to Arduino (text strings) and I'll share the script I wrote for that. It's using AutoHotkey, so it's Windows only.
Great video with a of of useful information. I decided to buy one based on your asessment. Today I tried to download your script but when I clicked on your product it just sent me to your video. So how do I download the script? Thanks
@@letimix Thank you for the quick response and for your free script. I have downloaded your software using the link you provided. ( I did try using the links in the description but they still take you to your You Tube video.) Cheers Lester
Hi! Great stuff dude I'm thinking on doing the LCD screen my self but I'm using Ableton. Do I need to redo all the parsing myself or can I use the code you left on a comment down bellow? Thanks for the video and all the info you've provided
Basically you can use the script provided, but the commands may work slightly differently in different DAWs. The Platform M itself can be imagined as a motorized MIDI-keyboard, the text on LCD is generated by the DAW.
hey there, thx for the review ...one thing though, you said that the fader resolution is from 1-127 which is very low and by the product page it should be 10bit which is 0-1024. How did you get to that 0-127 steps info?
Well, I was a little dissapointed as well. Though my CMC-CH controller also seems to be 0-127 only. If I'm not making a mistake. you can see it here: drive.google.com/open?id=1J5ugKyxNjce3PCKxKJZQOydW6OVOegP0 When I move a fader and watch MIDI IN messages, I see only the higher byte is changing (0 to 127), the lower byte which (I suppose) gives better resolution is always at 0. When Cubase sends back fader position it uses both bytes, so I make a conclusion that Icon Platform M as well as CMC-CH just don't give that resolution.
Ah well yes, meanwhile I found out that it uses mackie HUI standard which has that limitation, it's not hardware's fault. Very unfortunate. Thanks for the reply though!
@@milosnikolic7427 The (pitchfader) resolution drops when you used it in custom mode unfortunately. So it keeps sending the lower byte to 0 all the time. If you use it in Cubase mode it will send both bytes and you get the high resolution. I find a bit sad and annoying. It's not a perfect mixer, but still really good and I prefer it over the Artist Mix.
Great info, I love the lcd. How or where did you get the enclosure? Also, can I have the coding you created. I’ve never done this before and am looking forward to try it out.
Jerrie, thanks! Sure, if you know how to connect Arduino to LCD, I'll send you the code. Just make sure you get the basics. I did the enclosure with a black plastic corner, two of them glued together.
I don’t know how to do that yet but I’m beginning to do some research. Are you using an Arduino Uno? Also, when you say plastic corner what exactly is it? Is it something you purchased at the hardware store?
Hi LetiMix. First I'd like to thank you for the tutorials you made about the Platform M. This must have cost you a lot of time but is more then welcome! I have a short question: I use Cubase 10-Pro and a Yamaha Moxf (workstation). If I connect the controller (Platform) to my PC, will I be able to configure it to use the Midi CC functions(cc-1, cc-11 etc)? My Moxf is also connected with my Pc and Cubase so the controller will be connected (directly) into my PC. Thanks in advance for your reply ;-)
@@letivyshe Thanks for your quick reply! In fact today I have (Bax-Music) setup a model for me in their shop. So I'm on my way to Amsterdam to try it out myself. If you'd like I can keep you informed about my findings.
You should try to connect Arduino to LCD1602. There are a lot of tutorials on the internet on that. After you get this experience you can connect 4 such LCD screens to Arduino (it's not much harder - they share the same five digital pins plus one for each individial LCD). If you're good with that, I can share with you the script for Autohotkey (Windows only) that gets MIDI messages from your DAW, parses SysEx messages (which contain text data) and sends them through COM-port to Arduino based display.
very useful video thank you. I`m just building a Mixertable. And I have the same idea: customizating an LCD Panel for all my Tracks. Can you please send me the code for the arduino? That would be very helpful. Thank you.
Hey, Bernhard! You can find some instructions and downloads (there's an Arduino sketch inside) in this tutorial (see at the bottom): docs.google.com/document/d/1YvE29eESlStcKyA0OG728siU48ixVbrZaBg6i3zWrNA/edit# Good luck!
@@letimix I still don't understand how you connected these displays to the platform. What kind of wire is needed? Platform M --> (???Cable for the "LCD module" connector???) --> Arduino -->LCD Displays
@@Joey-jk1ou, thats cool! You should try to connect Arduino to LCD using any of the tutorials on the web. www.google.com/search?q=how+to+connect+arduino+to+lcd+display&oq=how+to+connect+arduino+to+lcd&aqs=chrome.1.69i57j0l5.7751j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8 Try to understand how to adjust brightness, print text, etc. If you succeed, try connecting 4 LCDs to one Arduino (all are wired in parallel except "E" (Enable) connector, so you'll need 3 more pins on Arduino. After that if you succeed in that, my code will be more or less clear to you. You should also know that there are two parts of code - one is for Arduino to receive and print messages, another one for Autohotkey (Windows only software) to receive messages from Cubase and retranslate them to both Arduino and to original Mackie Controller (Icon Platform M+). So the software and setting up is rather complicated, so you should understand what you're doing, that's why I insist that you have some practice at first, because the codes are not working out of the box, you'll have to tune them for your setup. I'll try to write a brief instruction in the meantime. Once again: WINDOWS only (because Autohotkey is for Windows only).
I'm looking for reasons not to order a Behringer x-touch and this video bores the crap out of me. Functionallity/ usability/price of the X-touch can't be beaten it seems. This unit misses a lot of "F" i believe. So it's far too expensive! Your voice ain't so happy about this thing either i believe?
I just received my Behringer X-Touch and I can say that I will certainly send it back because of the stuttering and noisy faders on X-Touch and you can't choose proper fader's speed like you can with Icon M+, very well explain from 5'30 in this video!!! Behringer didn't do nothing for that...
Great and honest review, I like that you mentioned all the stuff that you liked about it as well as the stuff you disliked. Nice customization's too!
I love that you mentioned all the controllers you decided against buying! Great info for other potential buyers. I was given a Mackie Universal for free so I am quite happy with that. But I have to replace a fader.
This is a really honest and truthful review. Thanks a lot!
Excellent and detailed review!
I just received my Behringer X-Touch and I can say that I will certainly send it back because of the stuttering and noisy faders on X-Touch and you can't choose proper fader's speed like you can with Icon M+ (and G2 pro I suppose?), very well explain from 5'30 in this video!!! Behringer didn't do nothing for that
Excellent tutorial. I am ordering one.
I can't believe it can be this good
Amazong review! :D finally somebody that has some knowledge andsomething to say, not another 10 years old kid reading the manual and showing us how to take the device from the box and connect up the USB plug :D WELL DONE :D I just tuned my unit... considering also the script for the encoders... :D not that I use them too much ... but it would be a nice project to get the right curve based on the number of "Ticks" received / time
This is the best and most reliable review about the Platform M+! Could you please show in another video how you did with the masking tape around the LEDs/buttons?
Thank you! I haven't done a video on that! Maybe these photos can help (the only difference is I did it on the inside): disk.yandex.ru/d/gh1i6U4N3akirR
@@letimix Nice method!
Those mods man... That's the way my brother! Всё хорошо
Thank you for your insights!
How to make the LCD screen? did make a tutorial or do you have any reference we can look into? thanks.
Hey, I haven't made a video on that. But if you know Arduino and how to solder you should work it out.
My text tutorial may help:
tiny.cc/nshhez
There's more about custom LCD in the end.
I have one of these and like it, but I don't like the way the display handles the channel strip tags. When you have a lot of tracks with long names the screen looks weird. I use it in Reason 10 and just moved over to Ableton... and am finding that it looks even stranger in Ableton... because it shows if you have a clip on a track above the track name. I love what you did with your custom display... yes!!! I total get what you did!
We are now in the first quarter of 2020 - do you still like this controller? What is your opinion in April of 2020?
Yep, I use it regularly, since then. It's ok with all those things I've mentions in this video. The knobs are not much usable cause they "jump" sometimes (the values change unexpectedly). The faders and buttons are ok. Overall I'm glad I have it, it's a convenient tool that doesn't take much space and is affordable.
@@letimix My apologies for not responding - I did not see your response. Since my question I acquired a MODX 7 and it gives you around 12 inches of table space to your right. I might just fabricate a shelve for a controller, instead of using the top of the MODX. I am not seeing any good controllers which are under $500.00. Thumbs up and subscribed.
Was taking this apart and taping the buttons so they don't bleed into each other particularly difficult or time consuming? I'm thinking about doing the same to mine but I don't want to damage it.
It takes some time, but it's not hard!
How did you make the bezell for the DIY screen? I have an arduino & 4 LCD screens that I'm about to wire up, would like to know how you managed that part and what materials you used.
It was a black plastic corner from the hardware store. Just took two corners and make a box out of them. The hardest part was to make "windows" in it with very thin pieces between them. And couple of thin metal plates bended and used as holders.
@@letimix thanks for the response. So after watching this, it seems as though you aren't plugging your DIY screen directly into the Platform M+, correct? Are you using two USB chords, one for your screen (arduino) adn the other for the controller?
@@jonq8714 Definitely.
I'm parsing MIDI data from Cubase via Autohotkey script and send a text to Arduino via COM-Port (all the text on the screen really goes from Cubase).
You can find some instructions and downloads (there's an Arduino sketch inside) in this tutorial (see at the bottom):
docs.google.com/document/d/1YvE29eESlStcKyA0OG728siU48ixVbrZaBg6i3zWrNA/edit#
Good luck!
Thank you for this interview.
Nice vid, thanks!
Have a question: How do I change the colors of the LED's of the buttons? Can't find it anywhere.
IMac -> Logic Pro
Only physically unsolder the old ones and solder new ones!
@@letimix Thanks for your reply. Pretty weird though, they advertise with pictures with red, blue, green buttons.. www.bax-shop.nl/midi-studio-controllers/icon-platform-x-usb-daw-expander-voor-m?gclid=CjwKCAiAmO3gBRBBEiwA8d0Q4p03alW-PTZHfDBLAf80K4mH5HLlMEVo6ya1or95W6PizE4m9aTSChoCLFkQAvD_BwE
is it possible to order display like this one on the video?
Unfortunately, no!
Does it let you open your selected track's eq or compressor and change parameters, without using the mouse?
I was looking for a controller for Cubase. This info was very interesting because you also looked at other controllers to compare. All in all, the price is very modest and I am going to order one. I was in doubt between the Steinberg controller and this controller, but your explanation gives me enough insight to make the step to this controller. I am also a programmer and I studied electronics. If you can give me a tip to make the display. What I need etc. I would also really appreciate that.
Hey, Fred! Glad you liked it. You can get some instructions on making LCD screen here:
docs.google.com/document/d/1YvE29eESlStcKyA0OG728siU48ixVbrZaBg6i3zWrNA/edit?usp=sharing
@@letimix Thank you very much for your quick reply. I have briefly reviewed the description. Apparently it is well described. Making something like this yourself is always more satisfying than ready-made items, which you cannot control! I have enough time (pension), and can put it together quietly and carefully.
With us here the shops will open again today, due to the lockdown and so I can also buy parts.
But like I said. I have time (retirement) and can take it easy. The most important has already been completed! The info to make it happen. Thank you for that, and have a nice day; Fred
@@letimix Best
Letmix
I have meanwhile purchased the Icon M + platform and connected it to Cubase which is configured for the Yamaha Genos.
Everything functions properly. I do not know the finesse yet, but I find it very annoying that there are music tones where produced when I press the keys! I would like to turn off that sound or at least reduce it in volume.
The manual is very brief and I have not seen any information for that item yet.
Do you have experience with this, and possibly a solution. Your explanation has already helped me a long way 👍, but I still need to gain some experience to work properly with it. Greetings Fred
I think I found the problem. I think it is a matter of channel settings.
@@swpderf Yes, it's probably because you have a VST-instrument that gets MIDI from "All MIDI inputs", and so plays MIDI received from your controller too (cause it's basically a motorized MIDI-keyboard). You can remove controller from "All MIDI inputs" in Cubase Settings (smth. like Studio Setup -> MIDI devices) or just choose only your midi keyboard as your midi input for your track (not "all midi inputs").
Great work man thanks!
I accidentally updated the m+ controller with the x+ software update. Now the m+ comes up as an X+ controller and doesn’t work. I did a master reset on the m+ but it still comes up as an X+ controller. Any suggestions on what to do?
Maybe you should contact iCon support?
Excellent vid - thank you
Do you know what all the differences between M and M+?
I remember M+ has an ability to set each fader speed individually, but not sure about any other differences.
Hi. Great video. Any chance you would show in a new video on how you soldered the LEDs and how you blocked the light with tape to not light up the neighboring buttons? I’m going to do it also - bought the LEDs you suggested - but concerned I’m going to mess up. This $300+ board. I have experience with soldering but would sure love any tips, tricks, etc., if not a full explanation. Thanks
Hey, Chris. I was lucky to have a soldering fan, so I unsoldered the old LEDs with hot air and soldered the new ones with a bit of patience and normal/small soldering iron.
Considering blocking the light you can get my idea from these photos (the tape should be inside, of course): yadi.sk/d/gh1i6U4N3akirR
did you write the arduino code?
Yes, sure!
Trying to set up Platform M+ faders with Kontakt 5. Vibrato, dynamic and expression. But it seems as if kontakt 5 wont update the new data from the platform M software.
Any faders that I touch or try to assign to a CC just gets shown as active CC 117 on MIDI Automation and wont work. Despite the new saved and sent data to the device.
Please help!
Sorry, had no experience with that. Maybe iCon support can help?
Can you customise the controller to control plug ins too?
Yes, in Cubase. It's a feature of a full version of script. Try installing the basic (free) version dl.ilyaorlov.ru/other/AHK_Platform_M_mods_basic_180402.zip
If it works for you, email me for the full version.
The (pitchfader) resolution drops when you used it in custom mode unfortunately. So it keeps sending the lower byte to 0 all the time.
If you use it in Cubase mode it will send both bytes and you get the high resolution. I find a bit sad and annoying. It's not a perfect mixer, but still really good and I prefer it over the Artist Mix.
Awesome display! You should sell it.
which display is this?
This is a DIY display!
Hi, do you know of a way to get the Faders follow the recorded automation in User defined mode. It doesn't work in Logic and Cubase........
Hi! In my case faders follow well the volume automation (Cubase 7.5) as well as send levels automation (in Send FX mode). Maybe something's wrong with your controller? Do buttons receive information about soloed/muted/selected channels (do the light up accordingly?)
Hi thank you so much for your reply, but I'm talking about the User Defined Mode and not the Cubase Mode , because indeed they work well. But I'm using the M+ faders for automating Dynamics,Expression,Vibration of orchestral instruments , so I have to assign the faders in User Defined Mode.
I think you should check what your computer is sending to Platform M+ (use some software for MIDI-Port monitoring, like MIDI-OX). Cause Platform M just reacts to incoming data, no matter in what mode (as I think). If your orchestral software sends back data about faders position - Platform M will move them.
Will it work with REAPER for basic home studio? Or another suggestion?
Reaper has some support for Mackie Control Unversal, so it'll work (I just tested it, it shows channel names and faders react to changes). Though I don't how deeply is Mackie Control supported is in Reaper - you should read manual on that. On the first look Cubase has a much much deeper integration, and Reaper seems to be very basic about it (though I haven't read Reaper manual on that).
The iCon and Faderport are the two of the best controllers on the current market.
I chose the iCon over Faderport, mainly because the faders are a lot more spread out on this. I like this thing
You are a genius!
Hey man, Nice vid. I have a quick question. I have a Platform M+ and the faders have gone from volume control to pan control and i don't know why? Any idea? I have not changed any setting on the M+ and have looked online but found nothing.
Hey, this is most likely not the Platform M+ but your DAW has switched to "Flip" mode (there's such command on Mackie controller). Try to restart you DAW and check that your "Mackie input" in your DAW doesn't receive any other MIDI-messages from other controllers and keyboards (that could accidently turn on "Flip" mode, which is midi note #50 (D3))
@@letimix Thanks so much for your help :-) Worked a treat. Never seen that before nor worked out how it happened but now know how to fix if it happens again.. Really appreciate it .
Can it work with sony acid pro or sony vegas?
I think it should work with most of software that supports Mackie Control protocol. I've tried in Vegas 14 - yes it can be configured and used. Though the functionality depends on the software you're using.
I have a problem with my Platform M+ connected with Cubase or Studio one. Selecting with with the mouse the tracks on the daws the platformM+ recognizes only the 8 tracks . but if for example I select the track number 32 on the daws( with the mouse), the platform M+ does not recognize the relative track (fader) Only if I press the BANKS button 3 time I can see the track 32 on the Platform. any help ? many thanks in advance
That's not a bug, it's the way this controller is supposed to work! You have to manually switch (with "BANKS" buttons) and select which channels you're having now on your controller.
Hi,
Wonderful video ! With Platform m+ can you mix track far appart like say track #1 and #48 ? How does that work (or not...) Can you select them in your daw and display them side by side on the platform M+ ?
Yes, you can do such thing in Cubase! (other DAWs might have something like this, probably).
@@letimix ho wonderful thanks. And do you now how you do that ? I see nothing in the manual. I had order accidentally a platfomrl x+ and i could only display 1-8 in Nuendo no matter what i tried. I returned it and really want to be cautious about this function because it's the only one i need basically.
@@moreausylvain, in Cubase when you open MixConsole (F3 by default) you can filter which channels to show (visibility filters). The Mackie device shows the same set of channels that you make visible in MixConsole. So you can make (temporarily) visible only channels you need and they will be close to each other on Mackie device (Platform M or X in this case).
@@letimix amazing. Probably i tried only visibility in edit window and not mix console. I'll order a M+ and then maybe i'll update the leds like you did and the select button (wich makes sense). Any links where you describe further your Arduino display ?
@@moreausylvain Hey, good luck! If you've ever made Arduino + LCD devices, try to connect 4 of LCDs to one Arduino, and when you're done, contact me. If you haven't, try with one Arduino + 1 LCD (I used simple, not I2C LCDs), there are a lot of tutorials on the net.
When you achieve that you'll need a way to send data from PC to Arduino (text strings) and I'll share the script I wrote for that. It's using AutoHotkey, so it's Windows only.
Great video with a of of useful information. I decided to buy one based on your asessment. Today I tried to download your script but when I clicked on your product it just sent me to your video. So how do I download the script? Thanks
Thank you! I've updated the link in the description, just in case here it is:
files.letimix.com/platform_m_mods/AHK_Platform_M_mods_basic_210215.zip
@@letimix Thank you for the quick response and for your free script. I have downloaded your software using the link you provided. ( I did try using the links in the description but they still take you to your You Tube video.) Cheers Lester
@@lestercrombie1465 you're welcome! The link in the description was also updated, but probably is cached somewhere along the way.
Hi! Great stuff dude
I'm thinking on doing the LCD screen my self but I'm using Ableton. Do I need to redo all the parsing myself or can I use the code you left on a comment down bellow?
Thanks for the video and all the info you've provided
Basically you can use the script provided, but the commands may work slightly differently in different DAWs. The Platform M itself can be imagined as a motorized MIDI-keyboard, the text on LCD is generated by the DAW.
hey there, thx for the review ...one thing though, you said that the fader resolution is from 1-127 which is very low and by the product page it should be 10bit which is 0-1024. How did you get to that 0-127 steps info?
Well, I was a little dissapointed as well. Though my CMC-CH controller also seems to be 0-127 only.
If I'm not making a mistake. you can see it here:
drive.google.com/open?id=1J5ugKyxNjce3PCKxKJZQOydW6OVOegP0
When I move a fader and watch MIDI IN messages, I see only the higher byte is changing (0 to 127), the lower byte which (I suppose) gives better resolution is always at 0.
When Cubase sends back fader position it uses both bytes, so I make a conclusion that Icon Platform M as well as CMC-CH just don't give that resolution.
Ah well yes, meanwhile I found out that it uses mackie HUI standard which has that limitation, it's not hardware's fault. Very unfortunate. Thanks for the reply though!
@@milosnikolic7427 The (pitchfader) resolution drops when you used it in custom mode unfortunately. So it keeps sending the lower byte to 0 all the time.
If you use it in Cubase mode it will send both bytes and you get the high resolution. I find a bit sad and annoying. It's not a perfect mixer, but still really good and I prefer it over the Artist Mix.
Great info, I love the lcd. How or where did you get the enclosure? Also, can I have the coding you created. I’ve never done this before and am looking forward to try it out.
Jerrie, thanks! Sure, if you know how to connect Arduino to LCD, I'll send you the code. Just make sure you get the basics. I did the enclosure with a black plastic corner, two of them glued together.
I don’t know how to do that yet but I’m beginning to do some research. Are you using an Arduino Uno? Also, when you say plastic corner what exactly is it? Is it something you purchased at the hardware store?
@@jerrierivera6737 yes, it's from local store. I've used Arduino Nano (cause it's smaller). Take a look here: ua-cam.com/video/YG8Qlje2KQg/v-deo.html
Hi LetiMix. First I'd like to thank you for the tutorials you made about the Platform M. This must have cost you a lot of time but is more then welcome!
I have a short question: I use Cubase 10-Pro and a Yamaha Moxf (workstation). If I connect the controller (Platform) to my PC, will I be able to configure it to use the Midi CC functions(cc-1, cc-11 etc)? My Moxf is also connected with my Pc and Cubase so the controller will be connected (directly) into my PC. Thanks in advance for your reply ;-)
Hey! Thanks!
Theoretically you'd be able to configure Platform M via it's own sofware to send CC via knobs or faders.
@@letivyshe Thanks for your quick reply! In fact today I have (Bax-Music) setup a model for me in their shop. So I'm on my way to Amsterdam to try it out myself. If you'd like I can keep you informed about my findings.
So, you can buy the console but you have to change everything on it.
I would love to know how to make a custom LCD for this. ANy resources you could point us in the direction of?
You should try to connect Arduino to LCD1602. There are a lot of tutorials on the internet on that. After you get this experience you can connect 4 such LCD screens to Arduino (it's not much harder - they share the same five digital pins plus one for each individial LCD).
If you're good with that, I can share with you the script for Autohotkey (Windows only) that gets MIDI messages from your DAW, parses SysEx messages (which contain text data) and sends them through COM-port to Arduino based display.
Can that be done with a Mac os x?
Sadly I'm not a specialist in Mac OS, so cannot give an answer!
Thanks. I still have an issue with the faders doing tiny little movements and a high pitched wine.
You should try to adjust fader speed (set it little higher) and connect your Platform M into your computer USB port (not USB-hub). It helped me.
Nice job on the mods.
How to off motorized? Tq
Without the additional script (see next video) it's probably not possible.
Watching your vid, thinking.......thank you
Great Video. Thx!
How may someone contact you?
contact@letimix.com
very useful video thank you. I`m just building a Mixertable. And I have the same idea: customizating an LCD Panel for all my Tracks. Can you please send me the code for the arduino? That would be very helpful. Thank you.
Hey, Bernhard! You can find some instructions and downloads (there's an Arduino sketch inside) in this tutorial (see at the bottom):
docs.google.com/document/d/1YvE29eESlStcKyA0OG728siU48ixVbrZaBg6i3zWrNA/edit#
Good luck!
@@letimix I still don't understand how you connected these displays to the platform. What kind of wire is needed?
Platform M --> (???Cable for the "LCD module" connector???) --> Arduino -->LCD Displays
@@IncDeterminate Hello, Arduino is connected to the PC, not to Platform M.
This vid helped me decide not to buy this product. Thank you.
Keith Harris II why is that ?
Maybe his workflow or perhaps it wasn’t what he was looking for in a controller. I’m looking at the icon qcon pro x or the icon G2
Channel names inconvenient? Wah Wah Wah you're so hard done by!
This is so cool! Can you please give me the code for the lcd screen
Have you prepared your Arduino+LCD already?
I was waiting to see if i got the code before I got the stuff for it
ok i got the stuff can i please get the wiring info. Many Thanks
@@Joey-jk1ou, thats cool!
You should try to connect Arduino to LCD using any of the tutorials on the web.
www.google.com/search?q=how+to+connect+arduino+to+lcd+display&oq=how+to+connect+arduino+to+lcd&aqs=chrome.1.69i57j0l5.7751j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8
Try to understand how to adjust brightness, print text, etc.
If you succeed, try connecting 4 LCDs to one Arduino (all are wired in parallel except "E" (Enable) connector, so you'll need 3 more pins on Arduino.
After that if you succeed in that, my code will be more or less clear to you.
You should also know that there are two parts of code - one is for Arduino to receive and print messages, another one for Autohotkey (Windows only software) to receive messages from Cubase and retranslate them to both Arduino and to original Mackie Controller (Icon Platform M+).
So the software and setting up is rather complicated, so you should understand what you're doing, that's why I insist that you have some practice at first, because the codes are not working out of the box, you'll have to tune them for your setup. I'll try to write a brief instruction in the meantime.
Once again: WINDOWS only (because Autohotkey is for Windows only).
@LetiMix thank you so much for your reply. i’ll try that right now 😁👍
👍
X touch, best price , the same usability
Сначала сомневался что русский(акцент то родной)))) А потом и мьюзик стор спалил)))
Dosent work!
I'm looking for reasons not to order a Behringer x-touch and this video bores the crap out of me.
Functionallity/ usability/price of the X-touch can't be beaten it seems.
This unit misses a lot of "F" i believe.
So it's far too expensive!
Your voice ain't so happy about this thing either i believe?
I just received my Behringer X-Touch and I can say that I will certainly send it back because of the stuttering and noisy faders on X-Touch and you can't choose proper fader's speed like you can with Icon M+, very well explain from 5'30 in this video!!! Behringer didn't do nothing for that...