Softube's C1 console use

I've been researching whether to invest in Softube's C1 console or a Faderport 8. They're both about the same price.
 
Does anyone have any comments one way or the other?
 
With the C1, do you use any of it's built-in FX? If so, where is it placed in the signal chain? How do you move those?

Thanks for any insight you're willing to share. I'm getting a little tired of moving the mouse so much.

Hi. These are as completely different products as I see it.
I see the Faderport 8 (and my Tascam FW 1884) as (motorized) faders, which gives a mixing with "real" faders on a mixer feeling.
I love adjusting volume with faders 
The Console 1, I see as the fx section of a mixer, with Eq, compressor, gain etc.
There is something "special" about turning knobs (no jokes about that one ), when dialing in a tone.
I see them as two parts of my setup. Each has their strength, and that is what I use them for.
Hope it helps.
All the best

azslow3
To narrow your choice... Faderport 8 is more or less useless with Sonar, at least for controlling VSTs.
C1 can control own FXes and UAD FXes. Also some Sonar functionality (but far from complete).
For Sonar control out of the box, MCU (Pro) is still favorite. And so its clone, Behringer X-Touch.
For general plug-in control there is no good stock solutions.
Anything with 8+ encoders and some buttons (f.e. Behringer X-Touch Mini), with AZ Controller and AZ ACT Fix can control ANY Fx/Synth/ProChannel in Sonar throw ACT Dynamic Mapping (reliable, so a kind of AutoMap without bugs and VST wrappers) . But since that is DIY solution, most "pro" users ignore its existence

A couple questions:  Is the functionality of the X-touch Compact on par with the X-touch?  Also, can the C1 or the X-Touch compact control general vst plug ins?  I'm under the impression that the C1 only controls UAD and native softube plug ins...
Thanks!

Thank you Az... which the answers were different, but no such luck.  Wish I had a grand to lay down on a controller, but even $499 is pushin' it these days..

bokchoyboy
Thank you Az... which the answers were different, but no such luck.  Wish I had a grand to lay down on a controller, but even $499 is pushin' it these days..

If you have more time then money... and think that X-Touch Compact is affordable for you, read "Functionality" part in the first post: http://www.azslow.com/index.php/topic,346.0.html
I mean Compact can control Mixes including sends, FXes (even adding them), Soft Synth, can "jog", etc. But this particular preset is for special audience (no LED feedback, many buttons are dedicated for audition). Someone has to spend (a lot of...) time to do the same for conventional (sighted) operations.

little kitty licked kielbasa shook his tail.  I think that is what he meant. 

bokchoyboy
 
 
Zargg,
 
I am really interested in your workflow... can you give us a quick snapshot of your mixing flow on a small project(say 10-12 tracks)?  What percentage of the time do you use your mouse now?
Thanks!
Salud...

I use the mouse perhaps 5 - 10% of the time now, compared to 100% before.
I use it for opening folders / menus, when I want to go anywhere particular on the time line, sometimes when adding nodes in automation, and when using other plugins. That's about it.
I use my Tascam FW 1884 for basic leveling and pan when I start a mix, after having routed tracks to where they need to go. I have buses set up in a template.
Then I insert a C1 plugin on each track. Tweak until happy, and move on to next track  It's that easy (IMO) 
Adjust Eq, compress if needed, and you're done (if not needing gate. Or some extra drive from the drive function, which I always use )
When going deeper into the mix, I start adding other plugins as needed. These are dealt with in the usual fashion.
I'm using far less plugins in a project now, compared to before the C1, with at least as good a result.
When it's time to do the final touches on the volume, or doing volume automation, I always use my Tascam FW 1884. There's nothing like closing your eyes, and move a fader until you're happy 
For me, it the combination that makes this SO good 
But if I HAD to chose (which I'm glad I don't have to), I'd take the Console 1, just out of pure functionality, and workflow enhancements..
If this was not what you were asking for, let me know.
All the best.

bokchoyboy
Thanks a lot Zargg... some real good information.  I am so close to getting the C1, but the fact that it doesn't control other plugins besides UAD is kind of holding me back.  They are just too expensive for me.   I asked Softube if they had any plans to support other 3rd party plug in manufacturer's, but they politely declined to comment.   Not sure if that's a good or bad sign :(   I must admit, I would also like a controller that has faders/transport controls too, but I can't be greedy with my current budget.
Salud!

I believe that azslow3 has a preset for the Console 1 on his site, where you can control other plugins with it.
I've just been too scared to try it out..

bokchoyboy

Sanderxpander
Ik Ik sht

I'm a little out of touch with today's acronyms and the like... can somebody please translate for me?
 

Only just saw this! Haha no idea what happened, I guess I ass posted with my phone??