Avid S3L and macOS
_Information about using Avid S3L console with macOS via AVB._
- Working combinations
Unfortunately, not all versions of macOS play well with the S3L. Most are OK, but some releases break aspects of the AVB protocol, which results either in timing issues (which manifest as clicking in recording and/or playback), or no functionality whatsoever.
Below is a table of combinations that I have personally tested.
| macOS | Mac | Pro Tools | Console | Works | Notes | | --------------------------- | ----------------------------------------------------- | --------- | --------------- | --------- | --------------------------------------------- | | Big Sur 11.1 | Mac Pro (Late 2013) | 2020.11.0 | S3L-X (4.6.1.4) | **Yes** | | | Big Sur 11.0.1 | MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2020, Four Thunderbolt 3 Ports) | 2020.11.0 | S6L (6.3) | **Yes** | | | Catalina (all versions) | Mac Pro (Late 2013) | | S3L-X (4.6.1.4) | **Yes** | Minimal testing. | | Mojave 10.14.0-10.14.3 | MacBook Pro (Retina, 15-inch, Mid-2015) | 2018.12.0 | S3L-X (4.6.1.4) | **Yes** | | | High Sierra 10.13.4-10.13.6 | MacBook Pro (Retina, 15-inch, Mid-2015) | | S3L-X (4.6.1.4) | Partially | Recording: Yes / Playback: No (timing issues) | | Sierra (10.12.6) | Mac mini (Late 2012) | 2020.12.0 | S3L-X (4.6.1.4) | **Yes** | | | Sierra (all versions) | MacBook Pro (Retina, 15-inch, Mid-2015) | | S3L-X (4.6.1.4) | **Yes** | |
- AVB switch testing
- Ports A/B
I haven't yet started any testing with these ports.
- Port C
Below is a matrix of AVB switch combinations, and whether they work. All combinations are tested with the switch connected to Port C of the S3L, and the Mac connected to the switch.
| macOS | Console | MOTU AVB Switch | Netgear GS724Tv4 | PreSonus SW5E | | ------------ | ---------------- | ------------------- | -------------------- | ------------------------- | | Big Sur 11.1 | S3L-X (4.6.1.4 ) | | **Yes** (6.3.1.19) | **Yes** (1.2.0.16705) | | Big Sur 11.1 | S3L-X (4.6.1.4 ) | | | No (1.0.0.15447) – clicky |