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Buy MIDI controllers at session
MIDI or DAW controllers are primarily designed to do one thing: make working on your PC easier. If you don’t want to keep clicking the mouse while recording, mixing or mastering, you’ll eventually opt for a DAW-compatible MIDI keyboard (master keyboard) or a MIDI controller.
Before buying, you should be clear which functions the Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) controller should control and which control elements are necessary. Do you want keys, pots (knobs), pads or faders? Do you need to control multiple channels at once, or is channel selection via arrow keys sufficient? And what about connections? Is a simple USB MIDI connection enough or do you want Ethernet?
To help you pick the right product before buying, we cover the decisive points here. The items mentioned are linked in our online shop and can be ordered conveniently from home.
Studio or performance controllers
Ableton Live has set a standard for live performances with its clip-launch matrix. Some hardware controllers adopt this concept or are built entirely around it. If you own the Live software, the Ableton Push 2 would be the perfect control unit. With its touch-sensitive RGB pads you can easily start and stop clips — not to mention all the other possibilities.
An alternative and more affordable option is the Novation Launchpad series. From the Launchpad Mini through to the X and Pro, there’s a suitable tool for everyone. Meanwhile Akai has also entered the clip-launcher league with the Akai Fire.
The Maschine series offers the perfect controller solution for fans of Native Instruments plug-ins. Now in its third generation (Native Instruments Maschine MK3), the models feature two high-resolution colour displays, 16 dynamic multicolour pads with aftertouch, a ribbon controller and countless other buttons, switches and controls.
There are also more traditionally designed MIDI controllers: push-buttons, faders and knobs instead of colourful pads. The focus here is often on 60mm or 100mm faders. The touch-sensitive and motorised versions are built for ease of use, though they would be more vulnerable to rough live performances.
Softube takes its own path with the Console 1. If working with Universal Audio and Softube’s own plug-ins is your priority, you might like this control solution. Many all-round devices have to be adapted and programmed for plug-ins — not so with the Console 1. Here you have the same controls for the same parameters every time!
How much does a MIDI controller cost?
Affordable controllers start at around €50. The Korg nanoPad2 Black with 16 pads and 4 velocity curves is available from €56 and, with its popular Hold, Gate and Touch Scale functions plus numerous other neat features, offers an inexpensive entry into the world of MIDI controllers. If you want faders plus transport and navigation buttons, the Novation Launch Control XL MK2 provides eight sliders including rotary encoders and 24 buttons.
The first product with a motor fader is under €200. The Presonus Faderport V2 is unique among MIDI controllers. Besides full transport control, the unit features a touch-sensitive 100mm motor fader. Thanks to its intuitive operation you can switch between and control individual tracks in no time. No space-consuming mega-controllers — your wallet will thank you.
If you want eight motorised 100mm faders, the FaderPort 8 — also from Presonus — offers very extensive control options for around €500. Luxury: eight high-resolution LCDs as digital labelling fields are included! Integrated audio interface.
If you’re looking for a combination of controller and interface for planned audio recordings, the NI Maschine MK3 and the Presonus ioStation 24c are strong choices.
Includes software bundle
If you haven’t settled on a Digital Audio Workstation yet, you can hope for a bundle when choosing your controller. Many controllers now come with light versions of the major DAW software.
Which brands offer MIDI controllers?
Many makers of software sequencer programs also offer a corresponding hardware controller. The advantage is that the products are tailored directly to the software and can realise their full potential.
Ableton, Akai and Native Instruments are among the frontrunners. Other big names include Faderfox and Steinberg (Cubase).
By the way: most controllers work with many DAW systems. Compatibility is key these days. So don’t be afraid to buy — users’ flexibility won’t be restricted.