Focusrite Logic Pro - User Manual

The Focusrite Control 2802 is a console designed for integration with Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) like Logic Pro, Pro Tools, and Cubase/Nuendo. It functions as both a DAW control surface and an analogue fader automation system, connecting to a computer via Ethernet and supporting the HUI™ control surface protocol.

Function Description

The Control 2802 offers dual functionality:

DAW Control Surface Layer: This layer allows users to remotely adjust parameters within their DAW software. The console's 8 fader strips (faders, SEL, CUT & SOLO switches) can flip between controlling analogue channel levels and track faders within the DAW. The Control Surface Centre Section provides controls for DAW parameters such as auxes, plug-ins, transport, and automation, featuring a jog/shuttle wheel, transport buttons, 4 rotary encoders, and OLED channel displays.
Analogue Fader Automation: This feature enables HUI™/MIDI automation from the DAW to be applied to the Control 2802's analogue channel levels and motorised faders. This allows for automation of the faders and CUTs (mutes) of the 8 analogue main channel paths. This is achieved by setting up 8 "dummy" audio channels in the DAW, which contain no audio, and then using these to write and replay automation to the analogue faders and CUTs of the Control 2802. This allows simultaneous replay of automation on both analogue channel levels and DAW tracks.

Important Technical Specifications

Connectivity: Ethernet (RJ-45 CAT-5e cable) for connection to the DAW computer.
Control Protocol: HUI™ control surface protocol.
Faders: 8 motorised faders, touch-sensitive.
Displays: OLED channel displays for showing track names, automation modes, pan positions, send levels, and plug-in parameters.
Metering: DAW METERS switch (17) globally changes the input to the LED bargraph meters, allowing metering of the 8 DAW tracks currently assigned to the console. The meter scale is calibrated to a nominal operating level of +4dBu, with 0 VU corresponding to -14dBFS relative to a typical EBU AD/DA converter calibration of +18dBu.
Automation Resolution: Resolution of Relative Controls can be set to 1024 (or any value greater than 512) for smooth operation.
MIDI Bandwidth: Maximum MIDI Bandwidth can be set to 100%.
Power: Console requires power to operate.

Usage Features

Setup and Configuration:

Network Connection (Mac): Connect the console to the DAW computer via the rear panel NETWORK port. Install the Focusrite Control 2802 application. Configure IP address settings (either direct connection with static IP 192.168.0.100 or DHCP for routers).
DAW Software Configuration (Logic Pro): In Logic Pro, navigate to 'Logic Pro > Preferences > Control Surfaces > Setup...' and install two separate HUI™ controllers: one for "Automation" and one for "Control Surface." Assign MIDI input and output ports for each controller to "Control 2802 - Automation" and "Control 2802 - Control Surface" respectively.
Logic Pro Preferences: Set "Resolution of Relative Controls" to 1024, "Maximum MIDI Bandwidth" to 100%, and de-select "Control surface follows track selection" and "touching fader selects track" as preferred.
Analogue Automation Tracks: Create 8 mono "dummy" audio tracks in Logic Pro, de-assigning their inputs and outputs to prevent accidental recording. These tracks are used to write and replay fader and CUT automation for the 8 analogue channels of Control 2802. Renaming these tracks (e.g., AUTO1-LDVox) is recommended for clarity.

Control Surface Operation:

Layer Switching: The DAW switch (1) on the Control Surface Panel flips the 8 Fader Strips between the DAW layer (LED turns red) and the analogue layer (LED off). Both layers are always active, meaning analogue channels still pass audio when in DAW layer.
Channel Fader Control: In DAW layer, moving a console fader adjusts the corresponding DAW fader, and vice-versa. Faders can operate to +6dBFS in Logic.
Channel SOLO & CUT: In DAW layer, pressing SOLO or CUT switches activate S (solo) or M (mute) in Logic. Grouping these functions in Logic can be useful.
Accessing Tracks (BANK & NUDGE):
- BANK (15): Without SHIFT (13), banks 8-channel blocks left/right (e.g., 1-8, 9-16). With SHIFT (13), nudges assignments channel-by-channel (e.g., 1-8, then 2-9).
- 5-8 Switch (16): Pages the 4 rotary encoders to control the second set of four tracks.
- NUDGE (11): With NUDGE enabled, turning the jog wheel (8) changes the DAW tracks in access more quickly.
Transport Panel: Provides Rewind (3), Fast-Forward (4), Stop (5), Play (6), and Record (7) functions. The jog wheel (8) moves the playhead.
Navigation & Utility Controls:
- CYCLE (9): Toggles Logic's cycle loop on/off.
- MARKER (10): Adds markers to Logic's Global Marker Track.
- Track/Region/Zoom Navigation (14): Without SHIFT (13), cursor keys select tracks (Up/Down) or regions (Left/Right). With SHIFT (13), cursor keys control vertical track zoom (Up/Down) or horizontal timeline zoom (Left/Right).
SELECT MODE Panel: Used with Fader Strip SEL switch (18) to perform various functions:
- SELECT (19): Selects a channel/track in the DAW for plug-in assignment or control.
- REC EN (20): Records enables tracks in the DAW.
- AUTO MODE (21): Selects host-specific automation modes (Read, Write, Touch, Latch, Off).
- GRP (22): Adds/removes tracks to existing Logic groups.
- SIP SAFE: Isolates analogue channels from CUT when SOLO is active on another channel.
- AUTO SAFE: Isolates analogue channels from automation, preventing HUI™/MIDI automation from adjusting analogue channel levels. By default, AUTO SAFE is ON across all channels; must be turned OFF to automate a channel.
- UNITY: Positions channel fader at unity gain (0dB) and locks it until deselected.
Adjusting Parameters from Rotary Encoders:
- PAN Mode (27): Assigns Logic's pan controls to the 4 rotary encoders. OLEDs display pan position with a horizontal slider.
- AUX Mode (28): Assigns Logic's bus sends (Snd1 to Snd5) to the 4 rotary encoders. PAGE keys (26) select the send. Pressing AUX again (flashes) puts send levels onto the 8 channel faders.
- I/O Assignment (PAN + ASSIGN (30)): In PAN mode, pressing ASSIGN (30) allows encoders to access channel input and output routing. PAGE keys (26) access output assignments.
- INSERT Mode (29): Assigns plug-ins to the first four insert slots in Logic and controls plug-in parameters. Select a track, press SELECT (19), then SEL (18). Press INSERT (29). Rotate encoder to select plug-in. Tap encoder to confirm. Tap INSERT again to close plug-in window.
Function Keys (F1-F4) (25): Programmable commands, default configuration includes Clear overload flag, Recall screenset 2, 3, and 4.
Console SETUP: Accesses networking parameters, host DAW platform settings, and firmware revision. Parameters can be edited by rotating the corresponding rotary encoder.

Automation - Tips and Suggestions:

Automation Modes: Recommend Touch, Latch, and Read modes. Touch writes automation when fader is touched/moved, returning to recorded data when released. Latch writes to the last touched fader position until playback stops. Read plays back automation. Avoid Write mode unless extremely careful, as it can automate any touched parameter.
Viewing Automation: Press 'A' on the computer keyboard or click the automation icon in Logic to view recorded automation.
Hiding Tracks: Hide analogue automation tracks (1-8) in Logic using the 'H' icon to keep the session tidy. This requires "Channel Strip View" to be set to "Tracks Only" in the HUI™ controller configuration.

Maintenance Features

Firmware Updates: Focusrite releases updates to improve workflow, fix bugs, and add features. Users need to visit www.focusrite.com to obtain the latest firmware for the Control 2802 and follow instructions to flash the upgrade to the console memory.
Troubleshooting: If experiencing issues, users should consult the Control 2802 FAQ online at www.focusrite.com or contact Focusrite Technical Support.
Factory Reset: Page 6 of the SETUP menu allows resetting the console to its factory default settings, which will reset analogue main channel levels and motorised faders to "off."
Warranty: Focusrite products come with a 12-month warranty for manufacturing defects. Repairs or replacements are free if returned to an authorised dealer. Users should provide the original invoice or store receipt. The warranty is limited to the first purchaser from an Authorised Focusrite Reseller and is in addition to statutory rights. Users are advised to check mains voltage, cables, and user guide before returning the product.