I’m thinking of using a small (25 or 41 keys) controller with Cubase. What are the current views on best buy? I like the new Novation Nocturn or the Akai models. I’m happy to pay for quality, and essentially want a few keys to input notes, as well the control surface.

Peter

Hi Peter,
Ah, a controller with keys (sorry I missed that fact in your PM). I had recommended the “Steinberg CC121, especially useful since the latest firmware and software updates”, but no, it doesn’t have keys. I see now that my other response doesn’t answer your question.
Novation, Akai and M-Audio, for example, do indeed make controllers of that type, but when I tested some of them awhile ago, I found some of the sliders and knobs of rather poor quality so can’t really recommend one right now...for that and another reason. I actually prefer full size 76-88 note keyboards that can act as both masters and controllers at the same time, and then use the CC121 for transport, jog zoom and other controls. Just my approach, but again not what you are aiming for. Cheers...........frank

Good points, Frank. My Motif sits to one side of my screens and I wanted something small that I can put on the desk of my Quiklok workstation. I want transport and effects controls, but the keys are because I want something to input a few orchestral notes or to try a patch. Something that I can use without setting up my Motif for controller and without turning to one side to put in a few notes. (If I record any of my playing per se I’ll still use the Motif). Hope that makes sense. You make a good point about quality as I believe some can be (as we say over here) a little bit ropey!

Peter

Anyone else with a view on small controllers?