ParksTool
ParksTool 8ES (8 Encoders with integrated switch) MIDI Controller
ParksTool 8ES (8 Encoders with integrated switch) MIDI Controller
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TECHNICAL DETAILS
8 smooth encoders without detents (push button integrated)
USB Type: USB type C (USB cable is not included)
3.5mm TRS MIDI OUT (Cable is not included) (TRS switcher integrated)
Function: Keyboard / Plug and play MIDI controller
working with Mac, Windows, Linux, Android, iOS (iPAD and iPhone)
Dimensions: 232mm x 23mm x 34mm
Weight: 106g
Product Manual
https://manual.parkstool.com/en/products/8ES.html
Configuration Page
⚠️ Web Configuration Tool requires a PC (Windows/Mac + Chrome or Edge).
MIDI controller functionality works on all platforms (Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS).
iOS/iPadOS: Web Configuration Tool not available (WebKit limitation).
Latest Firmware Update
What is the ParksTool 8ES?
The ParksTool 8ES is a compact, USB-C bus-powered MIDI controller featuring 8 clickable integrated encoders. Each encoder delivers both infinite rotation and a push-button click, giving you 16 independent controls in one sleek bar form factor. Experience true plug-and-play functionality: plug it into any computer, tablet, or smartphone — no driver installation needed. Enjoy full configuration without any software installation using the free Web Configuration Tool directly from your browser.
Controls & Features
- Rotary Encoders (8×) — Smooth infinite rotation with no hard stops and no detents. These are push switch integrated encoders: press the knob itself to send a MIDI Note or CC message. Sends relative MIDI values for seamless, jump-free control in any DAW. Supports DAW-to-hardware feedback (bidirectional) when connected via MIDI out.
- 16 Independent Controls — Each encoder provides both rotation and a push click, giving you 16 fully assignable MIDI controls from 8 physical knobs.
- Bank System — Assign any encoder rotation or its push click as a bank switcher via the Web Configuration Tool. Switch between multiple MIDI layouts on the fly to multiply your controls without adding hardware.
- TRS MIDI Out (3.5mm) — Connect directly to hardware synths, drum machines, and audio recorders without a computer. Supports Type A and Type B (switchable).
- Web Configuration Tool — Remap every control to any MIDI mode: CC, Note, Pitch Bend, Program Change, 14-bit CC, NRPN, SysEx, keyboard shortcuts, or media keys.
Technical Specifications
| Rotary Encoders | 8 × push switch integrated, smooth (no detents), infinite rotation, relative control, DAW feedback |
|---|---|
| Total Controls | 16 (8 rotation + 8 push click) |
| Dimensions | 232mm x 23mm x 34mm |
| Weight | 106g |
| Material | PLA body + Metal knob |
| Connectivity | USB Type-C (MIDI + power), 3.5mm TRS MIDI out (Type A/B switchable) |
| Power | USB bus-powered (5V, under 150 mA) |
| Driver / Setup | True plug-and-play. No driver installation required — class-compliant USB MIDI |
| Compatibility | Windows 10+, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS |
| Configuration | Full configuration without any software installation via the Web Configuration Tool (config.parkstool.com) |
| Protocol Support | CC, Note, Pitch Bend, Program Change, 14-bit CC, NRPN, SysEx, MCP |
Perfect For
- DAW parameter control — EQ, effects, send levels across 8 channels simultaneously
- Plugin automation — VST/AU knob assignments for deep sound design
- Video and photo editing — timeline scrubbing, color grading, zoom and pan (Adobe Premiere, After Effects, Photoshop, Illustrator, and more)
- Live performance — real-time effect modulation with 16 assignable controls
- Keyboard shortcuts and media key assignments (volume, play/pause, etc.)
- Mackie Control Protocol (MCP) integration for DAW mixing surfaces
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ParksTool 8ES?
The ParksTool 8ES is a compact USB-C MIDI controller with 8 clickable integrated encoders, giving you 16 independent MIDI controls in a slim bar form factor. No driver installation required — true plug-and-play.
Which DAWs does it work with?
It works natively with all major DAWs including Ableton Live, Logic Pro, Cubase, FL Studio, Reaper, Pro Tools, GarageBand, and more. No additional plugins or setup required.
Does it support Mackie Control Protocol (MCP)?
Yes. Encoders can be assigned as V-Pot (relative) to control DAW mixing surfaces. Presets for MCP are available in the Web Configuration Tool.
How do I customize the MIDI mapping?
Configuration is completely browser-based with zero software installation. Use the free ParksTool Web Configuration Tool at config.parkstool.com (Chrome or Edge on PC). Changes are saved directly to device memory instantly.
What is a rotary encoder, and why use one instead of a potentiometer?
A rotary encoder rotates infinitely with no hard stops, sending relative MIDI values to prevent value jumps when switching parameters. These are also push button integrated encoders — press the knob to send MIDI Note or CC messages. Each knob gives you both rotation and switch functionality in a single control, plus bidirectional DAW feedback.
How does bank switching work without dedicated keys?
Assign any encoder rotation or its push click as a bank switcher via the Web Configuration Tool. This lets you switch between multiple MIDI layouts on the fly without any additional hardware.
Do I need to install a driver or any software?
No. It is a class-compliant USB MIDI device — no drivers needed. Even configuration is done through a web browser, keeping your system clean without extra software or background services.
Compatibility
Works with Ableton Live, Logic Pro, Cubase, FL Studio, Reaper, Pro Tools, GarageBand, Studio One, Bitwig Studio, and any USB MIDI-compatible software. Operating systems: Windows 10+, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS.
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