Your QCon should feel like a natural extension of the DAW, with the controls you need ready when the session starts. This guide helps you connect the controller to iMap, choose the right DAW mode, manage supported mappings, and update firmware. Because QCon modes vary by model and firmware, identify both before you begin.

This article covers QCon Pro X, QCon Pro XS, QCon Pro G2, QCon EX, QCon EX G2, and QCon Pro where the available sources support a shared procedure.

What you'll need

You need:

• Your exact QCon model and USB cable
• The matching iMap version and firmware file
• The control-surface setup instructions for your DAW

QCon controllers are class-compliant USB MIDI devices and do not need a separate iCON driver.

1. Get the correct QCon iMap

Get iMap through Smart Install or from the registered product page in your iCON account. Choose the download for your exact QCon model.

2. Plug in the QCon and open iMap

1. Connect the QCon directly to a USB port on the computer.
2. Turn it on and allow the computer a few seconds to recognize it.
3. Open the matching QCon iMap.
4. Select the exact QCon model when iMap asks for a device.

If iMap does not detect the controller, try another USB port or a known-good USB data cable, then see the following article: iMap does not detect your controller or keyboard.

3. Choose the mode that matches your DAW

QCon mode labels vary by model and firmware.

QCon Pro G2 and QCon Pro X with firmware 1.18 or later

These configurations use four universal modes:

• MCP (Mackie Control Protocol): Use with DAWs other than Logic Pro and Pro Tools.
• Logic: Use with Apple Logic Pro.
• HUI: Use with Pro Tools.
• User Defined: Use for custom MIDI mapping. The source notes that this mode does not work with Pro Tools.

Choose the mode during startup, then tell your DAW which control protocol to expect. Use Mackie Control for MCP and Logic workflows. Use HUI only for Pro Tools. Matching both sides gives the controller a clear path into the session.

QCon Pro X with firmware earlier than 1.18

Earlier QCon Pro X firmware provides a separate mode for each DAW. Choose the mode named for your DAW, then follow that DAW's control-surface instructions.

Other QCon models

Use the mode labels shown on the controller and in its model-specific documentation. Do not assume that every QCon model uses the four-mode system above.

4. Shape a custom mapping around your workflow

When your QCon iMap provides user mapping, select the control you want to change, assign the supported MIDI message, and send the layout to the controller. Save a copy on the computer so you can restore it later.

The source set for this draft does not support a detailed, shared iMap-panel walkthrough for every QCon model. Confirm the current interface for each model before publication.

How to use a QCon extender

QCon EX and QCon EX G2 add channels to a compatible QCon main controller.

• Configure and update the main controller and each extender separately.
• During a firmware update, connect only the device being updated.
• Confirm the extender order and DAW port assignment in the model-specific setup guide.

Important: QCon Pro X firmware 1.18 changes the control layout

When moving a QCon Pro X from firmware earlier than 1.18 to firmware 1.18 or later:

1. Use iMap 2.20 or later.
2. Update and fit the correct app panel before updating the firmware.
3. Use the overlays that match the new button mapping.
4. Disconnect extenders and update one device at a time.

The button layout changes with this update. Do not proceed until the app panel and overlays are ready. Add the current app-panel instructions and ordering link before publication: [QCon Pro X app panel link].

How to update QCon firmware

1. Disconnect other controllers and extenders.
2. Connect only the QCon device you are updating directly to the computer. Do not use a USB hub during a firmware update.
3. Open the matching iMap and confirm the exact model before selecting firmware.
4. Start the update and keep the controller powered and connected until it finishes.

Using firmware for another model can damage the controller. If the update cannot complete on an AMD or unsupported Apple Silicon computer, use a supported Intel computer or base M1 Mac, or ask iCON Support to confirm a compatible update system.

How to enter QCon firmware-upgrade mode

Use this only when the QCon will not start normally after a failed firmware update.

 Turn off the QCon.

1. Hold REC on the first channel.
2. Keep holding the button while you turn on the controller.
3. Continue with [Recovering a QCon or Platform controller from a failed firmware update link].

Frequently asked questions

Does a QCon controller need a driver?

No. QCon controllers are class-compliant USB MIDI devices and do not need a separate iCON driver.

Should I choose HUI or Mackie Control for my QCon?

Use HUI only with Pro Tools. For other supported DAWs, use the matching Mackie Control or model-specific DAW mode.

Why does my QCon Pro X show different DAW modes?

QCon Pro X firmware earlier than 1.18 uses separate DAW modes. Firmware 1.18 and later uses MCP, Logic, HUI, and User Defined modes.

Can I update a QCon and its extender together?

No. Disconnect the other units and update the main controller and each extender separately.

Why do I need a new QCon Pro X app panel and overlays?

Firmware 1.18 changes the button configuration. The updated app panel and overlays keep the physical labels aligned with the new functions.

Need more help?

If something does not work as expected, contact iCON Support with the exact QCon model, current firmware, operating system, iMap version, DAW, and the step where you stopped. Those details help the team understand your setup and point you toward the right next move.