The Samson Graphite MF8 control surface is a 4.5″x17.5″x2.5″ musical instrument which allows users to make studio and on-the-go music production which is accessible to everyone. It weighs one pound. It is a device which offers a master encoder, DJ-style cross-fader, transport controls and five assignable function buttons. A pretty nifty, compact and portable device for those who are looking for an affordable controller. Let’s review the main features.
The Graphite MF8 has some features which make the control over each track customization. High quality audio recordings as well as mixing and mastering music are therefore allowed. What’s more, to control more tracks, the controller offers left and right arrow buttons. There are preset options too. They can be mapped to computer software for instant operation. The design of this product allows users to use several of the Graphite controllers in tandem. Users are allowed to access to the number of knobs, faders, buttons, together with the keys, to create their personal style of music. The footprint of each controller is so small that not much space is occupied.
Main features of the MF8
- Eight channels with faders
- Parameter knobs
- Record, mute and solo button
- Programmable master encoder, five function buttons
- One crossfader
- Dedicated transport controls
- Five customizable presets
- Track control with left and right arrow buttons
- Powered by iPad and USB bus
- Includes mini USB to USB cable
- Free Graphite Editor Software download available
Why we like the MF8
The retail price alone catches our eye. We’ve seen it for relatively cheaper on Amazon. If you’re looking for a standard control surface and need to basic features of these types of devices, we’d definitely take this into consideration if you’re on a budget. Most control surfaces are around this price, but what makes this a bit more exciting is if you’re on an apple device rig. The editor software is relatively solid. However, if you’re like us, you most likely have your rig all set up. It won’t hurt, however.
With additional music and synth iPad apps which are compatible with MIDI controllers, this product is a great gadget for making music on-the-go without a hitch. This control surface is compatible with other Samson’s mini USB MIDI controllers such as M25, M32 and MD13 as well. More than these, the G’raphite Editor Software’ is available for download from Samson’s official website. It is free of charge — click here to download it.
With the help of such free software, the MIDI workflow can be conveniently customized by using the creating presets on the editor as well as saving them to the device for instant recall.
The MF8 is suitable for all musicians who need to produce digital music, in particular because of its eight channel strips. It is easy and convenient to control as each of them consists of a fader, parameter knob, as well as two separate record and solo/mute buttons. In addition to the fact that it is light in weight and the presence of plenty of DAW control as well as the iPad/USB bus power and plug-and-play operation, it is a perfect portable package; we can produce our music without sticking to the studio. Although I don’t always travel, it never hurts to be portable in case my friends want to collaborate for the weekend.
The use of controller depends on the style of music and the location in the production cycle. For instance, while you are mapping the knobs to important performance parameters such as filter cutoff or modulation rate, using the M25 sequencing parts might be considered.
The MF8 control surface is now available on market. Interested buyers can place an order via online retailers like Amazon and eBay.
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