PRODUCER WEEK 2025: We’ve often sang the praises of Bitwig Studio - the incredibly versatile and flexible DAW that's now over ten years old. In the space of that decade, it has become a byword for sonic creativity. In fact, we went as far as to name its version 5 upgrade our DAW of the year a couple of years back.
Being such a dexterous workstation, it has been a virtual hub for many creatives who love to tinker – many of which use complex modular systems. Heeding the countless calls to bridge the software and hardware worlds, Bitwig has released the Connect 4/12 hardware – the perfect way to expand your Bitwig universe out of your computer and into the real world.
Firstly, the 4/12's robust steel build quality is extremely durable, while an endearingly simple interface belies the complex hardware inside.
Connect’s internal mic preamps are of premium quality. The interface’s ultra-high quality instrument/line inputs fuel AKM convertors which can reach up to 192kHz (24 bit resolution).
And while audio ins and outs are a big draw here, for those Bitwig aficionados who long for more hands-on control of their beloved creative playhouse, Connect 4/12 is a masterful control centre.
With the interface connected – and ‘Bitwig Mode’ activated – simply hovering over any of the software’s controls will illuminate a selection of the 32 LEDs surrounding its 360° dial.
With this dial, you can modify any of Bitwig’s parameters by hand – and receive instant visual feedback as to how you’re affecting the virtual environmnet.
You can even use it to track automation data and finely scan the playhead through your project. This makes those often time-consuming, mouse-based processes feel more in-sync with the creative, feel-based music-making process.
Handy DAW transport buttons are also readily accessible on the front panel which contains fastidiously accurate input and output monitoring, depicted via LEDs
This integration with the DAW is a big win in our book. So too is the general lack of stress when using this interface. We can set input gain easy, regulate the volume levels of two different sets of monitors or headphones. All of these hand-carved settings can be called-up in further sessions thanks to Bitwig Studio’s ability to save and re-load specific gain profiles.
And beyond its ability to manage your audio ins and outs and Bitwig Studio itself, the Control's 4-in/12-out CV and MIDI connection make it equipped to handle anything and everything you might want to route into it – from modular synths, antique effects, gnarly old tape machines… just give it a shot.
The twin DC-coupled inputs and four 3.5mm outputs sit atop the front panel, opening up your hardware arsenal to all the modulation possibilities and flexible control options that the DAW brings. Patching your modular gear straight into the software nucleus of Bitwig Studios is a revelation.
Around the back of the interface you’ll find the motherlode of audio connections, from a MIDI in/out, 6 6.3mm TRS fully balanced line outputs, a fully balanced line or instrument input, and a multi-function XLR/instrument input. You can send performance or modulation instructions outwards, or direct sequencers to control virtual instruments within Bitwig Studio itself.
Any spare jacks can be used for additional audio signals you might want to route. As we say, Connect 4/12 invites users to bring as much as they can to the party.
If you’re a Bitwig Studio user, then getting a Connect 4/12 integrated into your setup is surely a no-brainer. As with the parent DAW, it’s a creativity-angled piece of kit that also doubles as a flexible steering wheel for Bitwig Studio’s deep sonic shaping abilities.
Bitwig Connect 4/12 is priced at €499/£439. For more information, and to buy, head over to Bitwig’s website.
Keep up to date with the Bitwig at bitwig.com.
Bitwig on Facebook
- Read more synth stories and features: at Producer Week 2025 here!
