Expand SQ MixPad (MAC/Windows) Offline Mode into a Complete Configuration & Training Tool
First, thanks for producing a Mac version of SQ MixPad. Our school recently purchased an SQ-7, and it’s been a great addition.
I’d like to suggest expanding the capabilities of Offline Mode. Our theater is in constant use, so students don’t get much time at the console. SQ MixPad has the potential to be an excellent training tool because students can build shows, experiment, and learn without tying up the desk. It’s also useful for instructors who want to assign exercises for students to complete on their own.
Right now, though, Offline Mode feels focused primarily on remote control rather than fully configuring the console. While building a show offline, I found there were several things I couldn’t configure or inspect without connecting to a physical console. For example, Soft Rotaries and Soft Keys aren’t available, and I couldn’t inspect or edit monitor mixes (such as viewing Sends on Faders). Those are exactly the kinds of tasks I’d like students to be able to practice before they ever sit down at the desk.
Are there any plans to expose the remaining console configuration options in Offline Mode?
I think a more complete offline editor would make the SQ platform even more attractive to schools, community theaters, churches, and volunteers. It would allow people to learn the console, build confidence, and prepare shows before ever touching the hardware.
In my case, the console is about 40 miles away, and the school’s IT policies don’t allow remote access. A fully featured offline editor would let me configure shows, explore the console, and prepare training material without making a trip to the theater.
From a broader perspective, this could also benefit Allen & Heath. Imagine a student, volunteer, or engineer applying for a position already comfortable with the SQ because they were able to learn the software at home. That’s exactly how many people learn professional software development tools today—they download them, experiment, and become productive before they ever use them in a production environment. The easier it is for people to learn the SQ platform away from the console, the larger the community of operators who are ready to walk up to one with confidence.
Thanks!