Frontier Design Group’s AlphaTrack is a new audio workstation controller that combines a set of intuitive tactile controls in a compact package.

AlphaTrack includes a 100mm, touch-sensitive, motorized fader which provides true 10-bit resolution for smooth and precise level control. AlphaTrack also has three touch-sensitive encoders, a feature previously found only on high-end gear costing thousands of dollars. These let you adjust track and plug-in parameters while the 32-character backlit display shows detailed feedback in response to your touch. The encoders provide quick control of pans, sends, EQ, plug-ins, and automation.

One of AlphaTrack’s innovations is its touch-sensitive jog and shuttle strip. Slide one finger across its surface and your project’s timeline scrolls in response. Drop a second finger onto the strip, and now your fingers control the timeline’s shuttle speed. Zoom through your project with two fingers, then just lift one finger and slide to quickly set the precise position you want. You can also just tap on the left or right ends of the strip to navigate through your project’s markers.

AlphaTrack also has a set of 22 buttons and 21 LED’s, including standard transport controls, per track record, solo, mute, and automation indication, and encoder mode control. When supported by the computer application, a set of buttons can also be customized with user-programmable functions.

AlphaTrack connects to your computer using just a single USB cable. This makes it quite portable, easy to connect, and compatible with laptops since no additional power supply is needed. AlphaTrack’s backpanel also includes a footswitch jack for easy punch-in recording.

AlphaTrack works on Windows XP and Mac OS X (including Intel Macs) with applications such as Pro Tools, SONAR, Reason, Cubase SX/SL, and Nuendo. Support for more applications will be added regularly.

AlphaTrack Specifications

• Requirements: Windows XP (Service Pack 2 recommended) or Mac OS X (10.3.9+) operating system
• Computer Interface: powered full-speed USB 2.0 or USB 1.1 port (unpowered hub connection not recommended)
• User Interface:
• • One 100mm touch-sensitive, motorized fader
  • One 32-character backlit display
  • Three touch-sensitive encoders, with push-button function
  • Buttons: REW, FFWD, STOP, PLAY, RECORD, SHIFT, MUTE, SOLO, REC-ARM, FLIP, IN, OUT, LOOP, PAN, SEND, EQ, PLUG-IN, AUTO, F1, F2, F3, F4
  • Indicators: RECORD, SHIFT, MUTE, SOLO, REC, FLIP, IN, OUT, LOOP, PAN, SEND, EQ, PLUG-IN, AUTO, F1, F2, F3, F4
• Power: From USB port; no external adapter required
• Included Items: AlphaTrack control surface, 6′ (1.8 m) USB cable, CD-ROM, Quick Start Guide
• Size: 8.5″ x 6″ x 3″ (22 cm x 15 cm x 7.5 cm)
• Weight: 1 lb. 2 oz. (510 grams)