The Hardware Hub: A Tour of My Dawless Studio
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My studio workflow is a little different from the standard “computer-and-mouse” setup. I’ve moved away from the DAW to focus on a tactile, hardware-driven experience. The goal is to keep the creative process physical and immediate.
The signal flow is unique: My synthesizers feed into a Mackie DX-12, which sums the audio. The output of the Mackie goes into Inputs 1 and 2 of a Zoom L-12, which then feeds directly into the AKAI MPC Live II. The MPC acts as the central brain—handling sequencing, internal routing, and effects—before sending the audio out to the computer for streaming.
Here is a breakdown of the gear that makes this setup tick.
🧠 The Brain & Drums
This is the true commander of the studio. Not only does it sequence the gear, but it also acts as my central audio router. It receives the final stereo mix from the Zoom L-12 into its inputs. I then use the MPC’s internal routing to send specific audio busses out to my interface for recording/streaming.
- Key Features:
- Standalone capability (no computer required).
- Acts as the master audio processor and router.
- CV/Gate outputs for controlling modular gear (like the Crave and Edge).
- 16 velocity-sensitive RGB pads for finger drumming and sample triggering.
A semi-modular percussion synth that provides the grit. I usually sync this to the MPC to add industrial textures and techno rhythms.
- Key Features:
- Dual VCOs with pulse and triangle waves.
- Oscillator sync and FM capabilities for metallic tones.
- Dual 8-step sequencer.
- Semi-modular design with a patch matrix for experimental routing.
🎚️ Mixers
I use this classic console as the primary summing mixer for the synthesizers. It aggregates the sound sources before passing the signal down the chain. It also serves as an effects send for any pedals in use.
- Key Features:
- 12-channel analog architecture.
- Durable, “Built-Like-A-Tank” metal chassis.
- High-headroom microphone preamps.
- 3-band EQ on input channels for tone shaping.
This mixer acts as the bridge between the analog world and the sampler. It takes the stereo output from the Mackie (into inputs 1 & 2) and feeds the final signal into the MPC. I use it strictly as a mixer rather than an interface to avoid technical hiccups, ensuring a clean, reliable signal path.
- Key Features:
- 12 discrete channels (8 mono plus 2 stereo).
- 5 powered headphone outputs with individual monitor mixes.
- 3-band EQ with a sweepable mid-frequency.
- “Scene” saving to recall mixer settings instantly.
🎹 MIDI Controllers & Sequencers
These controllers connect to the MPC (or through it) to play the various synth modules.
This unit is my generator for “happy accidents.” Connected directly to the MPC via USB, I use it to inject controlled chaos into the workflow. It is excellent for driving stochastic rhythms and probability-based patterns that would be difficult to program manually.
- Key Features:
- 64-pad matrix with 4 sequencer tracks (3 melody, 1 drum).
- Deep stochastic and probability modes for generative sequencing.
- Bright OLED display for visual feedback.
- Slim, metal chassis that fits easily on the desk.
A great utility controller. I use the encoders and faders to map to various parameters on the hardware synths for real-time automation recording into the MPC.
- Key Features:
- 25-note velocity-sensitive slim keyboard.
- 8 rotary encoders (great for tweaking filters and effects).
- 4 faders (perfect for envelope shaping or mixing levels).
- 8 high-quality RGB pads.
Roland PC-100 MK II
A vintage classic that handles simple MIDI duties. It’s lightweight, straightforward, and provides a distinct retro feel to the setup.
- Key Features:
- 49 full-size keys.
- Simple, no-nonsense interface.
- Roland’s classic Pitch/Modulation lever.
- Runs on 9V battery or DC power for portability.
Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S49
My main master keyboard. While often used with software, in this setup, it serves as a premium Fatar keybed for playing the hardware synthesizer modules via MIDI.
- Key Features:
- Pro-grade Fatar keybed with aftertouch.
- High-resolution color screens.
- Robust pitch and mod wheels.
- Ergonomic controls for MIDI parameters.
Roland FP-9 Stage Piano
When I need 88 keys and weighted action for piano parts, this is the go-to. It sends MIDI data to the MPC for recording complex chord progressions.
- Key Features:
- 88-key hammer-action keyboard.
- Classic internal Roland piano sounds.
- Sturdy, road-ready build quality.
- Onboard speakers for jam sessions without the full mixer on.
Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol M32
The compact option. This fits easily stacked on top of the FP-9 for quick melodic ideas when I don’t want to swivel to the main desk.
- Key Features:
- 32 micro-sized keys.
- OLED display.
- Touch strips for pitch and modulation.
- Portable and USB-powered.
The ultra-portable travel keyboard. If I take the MPC out of the studio, this goes with it.
- Key Features:
- 25 velocity-sensitive mini-keys.
- Built-in Arpeggiator.
- Sustain button and octave controls.
- Plug-and-play simplicity.
🎛️ Synthesizers
These are the sound sources feeding the mixer chain.
This little desktop module is a secret weapon. It is multitimbral, meaning the MPC can sequence up to 16 different sounds on it simultaneously. It packs a massive sound into a sturdy metal chassis.
- Key Features:
- Virtual Analog and Wavetable synthesis.
- Up to 25 voices of polyphony.
- 16-part multi-timbral (plays multiple parts at once).
- Extensive modulation matrix for complex sound design.
My source for analog bass and leads. I love patching it physically, and the built-in spring reverb adds a vintage character that is hard to fake.
- Key Features:
- Semi-modular analog architecture.
- Hardware Spring Reverb tank.
- Easy-to-use onboard Arpeggiator and Sequencer.
- 32-note Fatar keyboard.
Used for rhythmic, evolving pads. The “Wave Sequencing” creates movement that keeps background textures interesting without needing much external processing.
- Key Features:
- Wave Sequencing 2.0 architecture.
- Extensive modulation lanes.
- Vector joystick for morphing between sounds.
- Modeled filters (MS-20 and Polysix).
This acts as my acid bassline machine. It’s patched into the setup via CV from the MPC or other modular gear.
- Key Features:
- Analog oscillator based on the Prophet 5.
- Classic ladder filter design.
- 32-step sequencer.
- Patch bay for modular integration.
The rackmount workhorse. When I need classic 90s polysynths or orchestral sounds, the MPC triggers this unit.
- Key Features:
- 64-voice polyphony.
- 8 expansion slots for SR-JV80 series cards.
- Extensive built-in multi-effects.
- 3 sets of stereo outputs.
🎙️ Audio Interfaces & Streaming
This is the only part of the studio where the computer is involved. I use this chain to capture the final mix for video streaming and recording.
My “Broadcast” interface. I send the assignable outputs (2 and 3) from the MPC directly into this interface. It connects to the PC, allowing OBS Studio to pick up the audio for streams.
- Key Features:
- 4 mic pres and 8 line inputs.
- High-headroom inputs to handle synth levels.
- Dual headphone outputs.
- Reliable, low-latency USB connection for streaming.
This interface serves a special purpose: it bridges the gap between hardware and software. I use it as a dedicated effects send/return loop for my hardware mixer. This allows me to use high-quality plugins in Bitwig Studio just like I would use a guitar pedal.
- The Hybrid Workflow:
- Send: I route the Aux Send from the Mackie mixer into Input 1 of the 2i2.
- Process: In Bitwig, I set up an audio track with Input 1 active and load my effects plugins.
- Return: The audio track outputs to the 2i2’s stereo outs, which are routed back to the Mackie mixer as a stereo effects return.
Used for field recording and capturing samples away from the studio, which I later load into the MPC.
- Key Features:
- Interchangeable input capsules.
- Six-track simultaneous recording.
- Records directly to SD cards.
- Battery powered for portability.
🎛️ Studio Control
This controller sits right in my Eurorack case, thanks to a custom 3D-printed mount. It handles all my OBS scene switching and stream management so I never have to touch the mouse while jamming.
- Key Features:
- 6 fully customizable LCD keys.
- “Multi Actions” to trigger multiple events (like starting stream and recording) with one press.
- Smart profiles that automatically switch key layouts based on the active app.
- Mounted in a Custom 20HP Eurorack Shelf (Designed by me!).
🎸 Pedals
This pedal creates massive, infinite spaces that I run my synths through.
- Key Features:
- High-quality hardware reverb algorithms.
- “Freeze” footswitch for infinite sustain drones.
- Gravity control to reverse the reverb’s decay.
- MIDI capability to sync with the MPC.
Conclusion: Breaking the Loop
Building this studio wasn’t just about collecting gear; it was about breaking the cycle of staring at a screen. By routing everything through the Mackie and Zoom mixers directly into the MPC Live II, I’ve created a workspace where muscle memory takes over. The computer is no longer the canvas—it’s just the broadcast tower. Whether I’m patching cables on the Grandmother or launching clips on the Stream Deck, every piece of this puzzle serves one purpose: to keep the music moving.
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