Description
This is a custom firmware version of the TF8 extension controller. Eight high quality, non detent (smooth & silent) trim knobs that can be used as an attachment for Sound Devices CL12, Sonosax LC8+ or any other fader controller that lacks trim pots.
Two banks, ch 1-8 and ch 9-16 (9-12 for 833)
User manual:
- Plug and power via 8-series USB A through a hub together with other controllers. No setup required.
- Press encoder for PFL
- LED will light either red (bank 1) or green (bank 2)
- Long press any encoder to toggle between banks
Dimensions, weight L x W x H
156 x 24 x 28 (41 mm including knobs) mm
6.14 x 0.94 x 1.1 (1.6 including knobs) inches
USB cable (fixed inside the unit) length 44 cm / 17 inches
Enclosure material: Black carbon fiber PETG
Weight: 124 grams / 0.273 pounds
Important note: This device will work for on-the-fly trim adjustments, and trim values are saved in the mixer through a power cycle for all channels that do not have a physical 8 series knob. Channels that do have a physical 8 series knob (ch 1-6 for 833, 1-8 for 888 and 1-12 for Scorpio) – will default to those on a reboot, just like when using SD-Remote. I have suggested SD to make soft fader/trim pickup function with the main channels on a power cycle as a future firmware improvement.
FAQ:
Will this work with my Scorpio, 888, 833?
Yes, since this is a trim only controller for channels 1-16 it will work with both Scorpio, 888 and 833. (Although 833 will have 4 orphaned knobs in bank 2)
How do I connect both my CL12 / LC8+ and the TF8 at the same time?
With a USB hub. 8 series third party controller menu set to “Individual”
What’s the build quality like?
It’s important for me to disclaim what kind of operation this is. I am designing, coding, soldering, 3D printing, assembling and shipping these units out of my basement office when I’m not working as a freelance sound recordist. 3D printed objects can and will have some very minor cosmetic imperfections compared to the high end aluminum stuff we’re all used to. I’ve taken some hi-res photos, so please take a closer look and decide for yourself. The TF6/TF8/T8 enclosure is made from carbon infused PETG which is strong, light weight, heat/UV resistant and pretty good looking for a 3D print, if I should say so myself. The encoders are nice smooth, stepless, silent and solidly wave soldered on to a PCB.
Will this work on my 6-series, 7-series, MixPre, Zoom recorder, etc ?
No, sorry – these units are only compatible with Sound Devices 8 series. You might be able to use it in your DAW though
How do I mount this thing?
The TF8 was designed to fit in a bag, so you will probably have to get creative in terms of mounting it to your specific setup. Dimensions are stated above
How does bank switching work?
Very simple: Long press (0.5 sec) any of the encoders to toggle between bank 1 (red led, ch 1-8) or bank 2 (green led, ch 9-16)
What if it breaks or stops working?
I am not running away if something breaks or stops working, please reach out to me if you run into any kind of issue: simon@iddqd.dk
What if Sound Devices stop supporting third party controllers in a future firmware?
I don’t see why that would happen. Third party support is an awesome feature of the 8 series mixer range, Sound Devices even promote this and other third party products on their own homepage. (Thank you Sound Devices!!)
I’ve heard third party controllers will sometimes act up and even cause 8 series to freeze
I’ve heard that too, and I am confident mine won’t cause trouble. Here’s why: As someone who has spent quite some time interfacing with 8 series mixers, my guess is for Icon and Waves Fit boards, these connection issues / freezing / unresponsiveness issues is most likely caused by the bilateral midi communication needed in order for motorized faders, track naming data, SD Remote etc. all to work at the same time, while also being able to interface with a whole bunch of DAWs and other hardware/protocols. This is incredibly complicated stuff compared to what’s happening inside my controllers. Also, some of the boards like SL Mixface and Waves Fit (at least the ones I’ve tried) had some weird trim pot / encoder multiplication mismatches that don’t translate well to 8 series protocol implementation. I have not heard of any of these issues with CL16, CL12 and Sonosax LC8+ and guess what they don’t have motorized faders.
Anyway, my controllers are sending uncomplicated one-way MIDI messages that are custom tailored to work smoothly with 8 series recorders specifically.
What’s the delivery time?
If the stock status says: “Green smiley face: XX in stock – available on backorder”:
That means the item is ready to ship within a day or two.
If the stock status just says: “Out of stock”:
That means I am waiting on parts. The upper part of this page has an ETA if that is the case.
Shipping:
Shipping options are shown during checkout
VAT / Tax
– Zero VAT/tax on purchases made from US or outside of EU, item price should be well below most customs thresholds ($800 for US)
– Zero VAT/tax on purchases made from inside of EU, just make sure to provide your VAT no during checkout.
– For some countries like Norway and United Kingdom, there might be local import custom fees and taxes, handled by local authorities and carriers based on the declared value.
