I'm more into the 003 factory intergrated control surface. But very disappointed. Still only have 4 mic-pres. Good side is, it has got 4 instruments inputs. A little more controls than M-audio ProjectMix I/O. But definitely way more controls than 002. Still no surround capability.
Both ProjectMix and 003Factory have got pros n cons. ProjectMix has got 8 mic-pres but only one instruments input. 003 though got only 4 mic-pres, but have got 4 instruments inputs.
Though 003 have got a little more controls over ProjectMix, but 003 can only be use with ProTools, while ProjectMix can be use with not only ProTools, but many other major DAWs.
Other things that 003 have that Projectmix does not, are 003 has got LED level meters on each channel, have the capability to link up to four 003 together via high-speed firewire, Alternate monitors output, a plug-ins button to switch controls between plug-ins or channels, as well as a automation controls section on the surface itself.
The only I like about 003 over ProjectMix is the more expensive outlook of 003.
Lastly, and of course, 003factory ships with ProTools LE with bundled plug-ins at a more expensive price than Projectmix. M-audio Projectmix I/O is much cheaper than 003 with comparable controls, and ability to control other softwares, but yet, can only use with ProTools M-powered which is sold seperately, and bundled plug-ins are sold seperately too.
Overall, there are Pros and Cons between both. If you have money and want more controls but willing to stuck only to PT, then get 003. If you are in tight budget, and want more mic-pres with reasonable controls, and don't wanna stuck only within PT, then ProjectMix is the choice.
Finally, since this tread is about 003, I would say, quite disappointed with 003. Expected more than this. But understandable that if it goes beyond this, 003 will cost more expensive and unaffordable by the home-studios.
Pls add on more comments. Thanks.
