Using a MIDI studio controller, it’s a lot easier to control DAW software and plugins from developers like Ableton Live, Reason, FL Studio, Sonar and Cubase. Since there are so many studio controllers to choose from, we’ve written this handy Buyer’s Guide to help you pick the best one for you. If you can’t find the answer to your question here, feel free to contact us.
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1. Why Should I Use a MIDI Studio Controller?
MIDI controllers are mainly used in combination with DAW software and are designed to ‘replace’ your mouse. While they’re by no means mandatory, the buttons, knobs and faders on these controllers are not only more effective, but make for streamlined and intuitive use.
That depends, since some controllers are specially designed for use in combination with a specific DAW. Any ProTools controller should work perfectly and immediately with ProTools software, while a Cubase controller should be able to trigger the functions of your Cubase DAW.
Secondly, there are also universal controllers. These come with a number of different DAW configurations, so always pick one that’s compatible with your DAW.
Thirdly, there are universal controllers that can be used to assign DAW functions to any of the fitted controls. Since this is done per key, button or knob, you basically ‘teach’ the DAW everything your controller is capable of to set yourself up for streamlined use.
Transport buttons are a section of controls for play, stop, fast-forward, rewind and record. These specific buttons are used for DAW functions only, not to control any plug-ins. Handy as transport buttons are, they’re not fitted to every controller because some people simply prefer to use their mouse and keyboard.
Ableton Live is a DAW designed for live performances, and it’s a popular one when it comes to EDM. In Ableton Live, you create tracks by placing samples and effects on a detailed grid using your mouse or a special Ableton controller. Needless to say, using a purpose-made controller not only speeds things up, but adds a professional touch to your performance.
Motorised faders can be software-controlled. With non-motorised faders, the fader positions have to be manually adjusted.
Motorised faders are the ultimate dream of studio producers, but they do come at a higher price. Since the range of controllers fitted with motorised faders is also limited, you won’t have as many options to choose from. Motorised faders really only become interesting when your DAW or the controller itself is able to adjust fader positions, and are useful for fluctuating fader values throughout tracks as well as easy fader-bank switching.
6. Are There Any Alternatives to Motorised Faders?
There are two alternatives to motorised faders. The first option is a set of rotary encoders with LED rings, which are essentially knobs that can be infinitely rotated in both directions. These serve as an alternative to motorised faders because the position of these encoders is indicated by the surrounding LED lights, meaning the actual control doesn’t ‘change position’. The drawback is that, ultimately, you’re still using a rotary control. Also, keep in mind that a fitted numerical display can prove useful with these encoders.
The second option is an LED touch-strip ribbon control: a kind of touch-pad with built-in LEDs you slide your finger up and down to indicate the ‘position’ of the control.
7. Will My Controller, Computer and Software Be Compatible?
Yes. Since the communication protocol is always based on MIDI, your controller and the fitted MIDI socket can be connected to your computer and software. In fact, the MIDI socket is based on USB, one of the most popular and universal connections in the world. As such, it’s in every manufacturer’s best interest to design broadly compatible gear.
9. My Keyboard/Synth Features MIDI. Can It Replace a Controller?
Technically, it can. But since keyboards usually don’t feature more than a handful of controls, they can be way more limited than a dedicated MIDI controller. On top of that, synthesizers and keyboards can be quite big and heavy, while MIDI controllers are generally compact and USB-powered, so that you can just hook them up to a laptop and work anywhere.
Some do and some don’t. Most controllers are plug-and-play and come with software for central control over the buttons, faders and knobs. In some cases, DAW software is included as well, usually in the form of an entry-level edition that can always be upgraded to a more extensive version later on.
