Midi Controllers - what you need to know

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  • čas přidán 20. 06. 2024
  • MIDI controllers, faders, knobs and buttons can bring your music to life. But how do they work and which one is right for you? Guy Michelmore explains a bit of the theory behind them, how you use them to make your music better and then looks at some of the latest options available to you. (And some pretty flashing lights)
    Thanks to Monogram and Enhancia for the review copies. This video is not sponsored.
    LInks to the gear below:
    monogramcc.com/
    www.enhancia-music.com/produc...
    www.native-instruments.com/en...
    iconproaudio.com/product/plat...
    www.elgato.com/en/stream-deck
    00:00 Introduction
    00:53 What is CC?
    02:00 Assigning Controllers
    03:19 Orchestral Controllers
    04:45 S88 Mk2
    06:42 Other controllers
    08:06 Monogram Console CC
    10:26 Enhancia Neova
    12:17 Favourite Controllers
    13:45 Old Controllers
    14:32 Prices
    Check out Guy’s "How to Write Music" course!
    Download our FREE guide: thinkspaceeducation.com/htwm/
    - - - - How To Write Music - - - -
    How To Write Music explores the fundamental skills that underpin every great piece of music whether it’s a song or a film score, string quartet or video game sounds track.
    Check out the free guide here to get you started: thinkspaceeducation.com/htwm-...

Komentáře • 426

  • @mr.squanch
    @mr.squanch Před 2 lety +6

    This guy is incredible. He explains the best, most understandable than anyone else has managed to do with me until now. and I don't even speak english.

  • @sandwich-breath
    @sandwich-breath Před 2 lety +55

    The best midi controller is likely the one you already have. It’s amazing what you can do when you just use what you’ve got. All of our favourite music was created that way… classic albums made with basic gear being pushed to the limit by an artist that made it work with what they’ve got!

    • @tom.konxompax
      @tom.konxompax Před 2 lety +1

      yes

    • @XIIMonkeysMusicGroup
      @XIIMonkeysMusicGroup Před 2 lety +4

      Some of us are starting at zero, and don't even know where to begin! This video is actually helpful for us!

    • @sandwich-breath
      @sandwich-breath Před 2 lety +2

      @@XIIMonkeysMusicGroup you’re absolutely right, and Guy’s videos are some of the bast available. I’ve learned so much from this channel over the past few years. It’s a huge help to get Guy’s expert take on controller options… but I meant it doesn’t have to be fancy to be a great midi controller. Hell, it doesn’t even have to be designed as a controller in order for it to work well!

    • @davidg6009
      @davidg6009 Před 2 lety

      @@williamtopping seems youre the only person who understood the comment smh

    • @professahbruno1578
      @professahbruno1578 Před rokem +2

      @@davidg6009 less is more, even if Beethoven was alive today am pretty sure all he would want in his bedroom, would be an upright piano for compositions and maybe a grand piano in his living room for practicing performances, the original idea is to know the limitations of your instrument and discover way to unlock its secrets by constantly trying out new things.

  • @michaelrodovan9816
    @michaelrodovan9816 Před 2 lety +46

    Thankyou Guy! you are my biggest inspiration. when i feel bored, stuck and lose my spirit to compose some music then i watch your scoring video, i got motivated again. you are such an inspiration for me! keep inspiring, Guy! God bless you more.

  • @paulEmotionalaudio
    @paulEmotionalaudio Před 2 lety +1

    Amazing!!! At last someone explains this in words of one syllable or less and I understand! thank you so much. I have the Platform M+ for the faders, (being an old sound engineer who misses sitting behind a big mixing desk), now I can go and program the controllers to my hearts delight!

  • @MasterAndross
    @MasterAndross Před 2 lety +1

    Hey Guy,
    Thanks for making the video. I was looking for the Monogram stuff the other day but I forgot the name and gave up.
    You came through right as I was about to give up and give up on the portable fader market for my portable rig.
    Hugely appreciated and I hope you have a fantastic day!

  • @JakeSweeper
    @JakeSweeper Před 2 lety +14

    It gets even better. Yes, there are 127 cc options, but keep in mind that's per channel and standard MIDI has 16 channels per plug. So a single DAW can have 2,032 individual CC commands just through a single MIDI chain. :)

  • @epochatlantic4591
    @epochatlantic4591 Před 2 lety

    Ive been watching your videos for over a year, and I just started looking for a midi controller. Perfect timing!

  • @imflashman5557
    @imflashman5557 Před 2 lety +19

    Guy! Can you do a video about mastering? 🙏

    • @ThinkSpaceEducation
      @ThinkSpaceEducation  Před 2 lety +24

      Actually yes. We're about to film a whole load of mastering videos for our Singwriting and Music Production MA so we can do one for the YT channel as well

    • @HammyGirl999
      @HammyGirl999 Před 2 lety +3

      @@ThinkSpaceEducation woot woot! 🥳

  • @LesterBrunt
    @LesterBrunt Před 2 lety +16

    Last year I bought a SSL controller and it is the best thing I bought for my studio. Was expensive but it works so good and motorized faders really brings production to another level. So many hours spend on drawing volume automation is now done in minutes. EQing and compression can now be done properly because you can carefully add in high end or compression while balancing the volume which gives so much better feedback.

    • @BrantK147
      @BrantK147 Před 9 měsíci

      Which one did you buy?

    • @LesterBrunt
      @LesterBrunt Před 9 měsíci

      @@BrantK147 the one with 8 motorized faders from SSL.

    • @BrantK147
      @BrantK147 Před 9 měsíci

      ​@@LesterBrunt oh the UF8. Thanks!

  • @mickeycohenmixsound2852
    @mickeycohenmixsound2852 Před 2 lety +6

    Hey, Guy!
    Thank you for this session.
    I want to add something to this issue;
    There is a difference between Monogram Controller and any other devices.
    Instead of learning the Midi CC by the external controllers, you can program the Monogram Controller to do/send the MIDI CC permanently.
    For the example;
    You can "Teach" the first slide to send MIDI CC Nr. 11 permanently, and any library that can react to this controller, will do it without learning the MIDI CC again and again.
    The Monogram Controller can be full programed.
    Best regards,
    Mickey Cohen
    ISRAEL

  • @itsmrcaine854
    @itsmrcaine854 Před rokem +1

    Honestly the most personality I’ve ever seen in a producer composer, and I’m 100% here for it lol

  • @SickickMusic
    @SickickMusic Před 2 lety +2

    Amazing energy

  • @mattkaz9604
    @mattkaz9604 Před 2 lety

    You've got some great gear here. Your videos are always so enthusiastic and well-presented. Good stuff.

  • @nightnoodler812
    @nightnoodler812 Před 2 lety

    I like the slidey thingys, but the knobby thingys have a place in my heart. Boy all this technical talk.., Thank Guy🎚🎛💓

  • @silversulu
    @silversulu Před 2 lety +1

    Great vid. Exactly why I driopped the PalletteGear (Now Monogram) & got the M-Audio Hammer 88 Pro. No nice OLED screens, but it has integrated faders on the left, pads on the right, plenty of knobs. Real estate meant I really needed it all in the master controller.

  • @JohnsysChannel
    @JohnsysChannel Před 2 lety +6

    This is literally like next level advertising. I've just thought I might get myself a midi controller to go with my piano, and one click later this video is here. Uncanny timing Mr Michelmore.

  • @docjoesweeney
    @docjoesweeney Před 2 lety

    A great review. Thanks so much. I am doing a lot of work with virtual modular synths and Bitwig. A low cost Novation Launchkey 45 was great for essential midi control, but I needed more knobs to give me the tactile feel of physical synths. After a lot of searching, I decided on the Faderfox PC12. OMG. Yes, it's old school. But it is so well made and fun to hook up to virtual synths, like the VM-900 Moog 55 modular soft synth, PS-20 and Eight Voice. I highly recommend it to people who can't get enough knobs to twist and turn.

  • @mikimcms
    @mikimcms Před 2 lety +1

    The Monogram is the best Midi CC Controller for me.
    I invested in buying a kit plus some additional pieces, and it gives me a fantastic time in my studio.

  • @willswitchcraft
    @willswitchcraft Před 2 lety

    Just quite simply put: 'Excellence in Presentation'.......informative, personal, concise, practical & fun. So great to hear someone with expertisé sharing their knowledge and perspectives.......

  • @tosvus
    @tosvus Před 2 lety +2

    Glad you mentioned breath controllers - those are fantastic for orchestral type instruments. The monogram is great - I only have the head unit + sliders though at the moment.

  • @renepoblete2713
    @renepoblete2713 Před rokem

    the most expressive and playful explanation i've ever seen!! :) Congrats and THANK YOU!!

  • @TheSteveBoyd
    @TheSteveBoyd Před 2 lety +1

    Thank you for this video, Guy! This is exactly the kind of info I need as a former MIDI adverse rock n roller! 🤘

  • @psychokitty444
    @psychokitty444 Před 2 lety

    This video came along at exactly the right time in my life. Many thanks.

  • @tfwdraven
    @tfwdraven Před 2 lety

    Excellent video. Thanks Guy!
    I use a Nektar Panorama P1. It’s around the £200 mark, sits nicely on my desktop, and I honestly have no complaints at all. I think every single control on it can be programmed. Getting it set up to work with Cubase was dead easy - a small patch for the hardware and that was it. It’ll learn any control on any software synth I throw at it just by hitting one button, moving the control in the instrument and then moving the physical fader or pot, and I have it set up for every synth and sound library I have. For the price, I honestly can’t fault it at all.
    I want a Streamdeck next, for all the Cubase functions I use.

  • @DanielaTocan
    @DanielaTocan Před 2 lety +4

    I did buy the Korg control 2 for 16€ and is full programmable. A also bought Behringer food pedal to control and have both hands to the keyboard…. Special usefull for VSL. Was 60 Euros. Mainly I use for both. Video controller and Music Control in my DAW Davinci Resolve and in VDMX5. But special to control Vienna Ensemble Pro 7. My last composition was complete done this way. If you take Pation and a concept. You run with better quality very cheap. I have a streamdeck used it some years. But I do not install and use anymore.

  • @toddwmac
    @toddwmac Před 2 lety

    I can always count on Guy to put a smile on my face. Thanks for all you do!.

  • @AironExTv
    @AironExTv Před 2 lety

    Thanks for showing off your setup and the details of those controllers. The monogram unit is one I‘ve had my eye on, but I need to justify it first. I‘m a dubbing mixer and dialogue editor in post production, and mostly work from home. My setup includes a Presonus Faderport 16, three DjTechtools Midi Fighter Twisters(4x4 endless knobs) , one Midifighter 3d(sturdy arcade buttons), an X-Touch Mini, a Novation Dicer set(sadly no longer made) and an old iPad running Lemur. It took a while to get the setup to where it is now in Reaper, but it‘s very quick now. The other one I‘m eyeing is the Streamdeck XL. That my be ideal for me. One more recent piece I can recommend very much is a wireless mouse, the Razor Viper Ultimate with charging station. Dream device if you like them light and precise.

  • @krbuys50
    @krbuys50 Před 2 lety

    That Neova ring device brings back memories from years ago playing a Theremin. A bit pricey but cool. Thanks for sharing.

  • @MrRicksym
    @MrRicksym Před 2 lety

    Nice to have you back in my recommendations Guy

  • @zaagomusic
    @zaagomusic Před rokem

    Jeez, LOVE your energy! Thank you so much for sharing your passion with the world 🙏

  • @piotrturekmusic
    @piotrturekmusic Před 2 lety +3

    Are you going to review the Spitfire Appassionata Strings?! :D Would love to hear your opinion.

  • @Motor-City_Ben-Diesel

    Woah that ring is awesome. I love the way technology is going with all these midi controllers and instruments. So fricken cool!

  • @dap2112
    @dap2112 Před 2 lety

    great video I learnt lots about controllers cheers Guy

  • @grahamtaylor6883
    @grahamtaylor6883 Před 2 lety +1

    Thanks for that. I'm currently looking for some knobs. Or more precisely a midi controller. Some things there I hadn't heard of.

  • @VexylObby
    @VexylObby Před rokem

    Love my KeyLab/Seaboard Block combo at home as it does so much for control and expression in 2 parts. And I think the expression part is very important for motivation of writing.
    Also, I like to not tie my playing to home, as one should take opportunities when inspiration strikes, even not at home. So a small portable keyboard in the backpack or car is a must. LUMI is my next step for that!

  • @marioantoniomoreno3991

    I watched this video and Christian Henson' too about monogram cc, i finally purchased the Audio console and i think i'll be happy with it (until september). thank you!

  • @romulusxyz6722
    @romulusxyz6722 Před 2 lety +1

    I absolutely LOVE my Native Instruments gear. I've had numerous pieces of equipment over my 23 years of writing music, and none have compared to the usability of the NI gear. I bought a S61 Mk2 and a white Maschine Mk2. Absolutely improved my songwriting and my workflow. The S61 is incredibly powerful. Such a fantastic piece of gear! My oldest piece of MIDI gear is my Roland PC-200 Mk2. It was made in 1990! Almost as old as me!
    Edit: Just wanted to add that if you're one of those "It has to be all DIY!" types like me (and Look Mum No Computer!), you could create your own MIDI controller! You'd need a Teensy or Arduino, some sliders and pots, and the most basic of soldering knowledge. There's tons of free code out there for both microcontrollers, just copy/paste/modify and you've got yourself a controller! If you've never done anything like this before, it's a great first project. Three sliders and three pots, something simple.

    • @AdhiNarayananYR
      @AdhiNarayananYR Před 2 lety

      Could you point me to some blogs that has instructions for the diy controllers. Thanks!

  • @rustamh7675
    @rustamh7675 Před 2 lety

    Very helpful video!

  • @VAIBHAVSINGHMUSIC
    @VAIBHAVSINGHMUSIC Před 2 lety

    My goodness! I just googled today morning about midi controllers and modulation controllers... And sir posted the video! Wow

  • @richardburnett8595
    @richardburnett8595 Před 2 lety

    Hello . Good useful cc video thanks guy . Respect great inspiration

  • @TheSteveBoyd
    @TheSteveBoyd Před 2 lety

    The Enhancia Neovia ring looks like a LOT of fun!

  • @RobertDorschel
    @RobertDorschel Před 2 lety

    I love what you do in your vids, Guy, thank you for these.
    FWIW I consider myself on your level, but I still get something from watching pieces from peers, and you nail it in each topic.
    Someday I'd love to pick your brain and/or hear what you are using and how you use it, for VIDEO gear here.
    I get sticker shock for the ATEM switcher etc etc in how these mixers demand HDMI cameras that cost quite a bit (over 100 $/pounds); I wish there were a video mixer that utilized USB webcams, of which I have many. Sure, I can use OBS, but it overtaxes my CPU while running a DAW in tandem.
    At any rate... thanks for the vids, keep it up.

  • @geebee44
    @geebee44 Před 2 lety

    I thoroughly enjoyed this.

  • @jeffbridges6110
    @jeffbridges6110 Před 2 lety

    OK. That thing with the "ring".....that was AWESOME.

  • @Stockbadger
    @Stockbadger Před rokem

    I love this guy’s vibe im subscribing!!

  • @johndelozier2491
    @johndelozier2491 Před 2 lety +3

    Was waiting for a controller video, thanks!

    • @ThinkSpaceEducation
      @ThinkSpaceEducation  Před 2 lety +1

      I've done one before but there's new kit out there to look at. If you can afford it Monogram is the business.

    • @guyonkeys
      @guyonkeys Před 2 lety

      @@ThinkSpaceEducation Agreed. It’s really lovely stuff and built beautifully. Yes, it’s pricier than others but I just works which is worth the entry fee IMHO

  • @ccuny1
    @ccuny1 Před 2 lety

    Good review and good fun. thank you Guy. Word of warning about the very expensive Monogram gear if you want to use it for keyboard shortcuts to control software: it only works with English keyboards (QWERTY). A major flaw for mucho cash. Checked a couple of days back and saw no indication this had been fixed. They don't warn customers about this either, at least not when a bunch of us in France bought it...

  • @GuitarWisdom
    @GuitarWisdom Před 2 lety

    new favorite channel. guess i'm the last kid on the block to get the komplete keyboard but i think this is sealing the deal

    • @KevboKev
      @KevboKev Před 2 lety

      Nah....I've been eyeing one up for over a year. I attempted to pull the trigger, but after my order was on backorder for 8 weeks, I cancelled. Still eyeing it though! 🙂

  • @anatomicallymodernhuman5175

    Nanokontrol is fully programmable. Any slider, knob, or button can be assigned to any CC, any value range. The slider throw is short, which means your movements have to be very precise. But it works.
    And, yes, this is an epic vlog.

  • @guyattpark
    @guyattpark Před 2 lety

    Wow, Guy, your fluency with the ATEM mini is most impressive!! I guess we should not be surprised.... and YES ... it is an epic blog!!!

  • @alontrigger
    @alontrigger Před 2 lety

    Very entertaining video Guy, I think your setup would be an overkill for me, but I'm happy to so see how excited you are about it! BTW I have the Korg Nano Kontrol 2 and it is programmable.

  • @ThisOldGuy3
    @ThisOldGuy3 Před 2 lety +7

    I literally found your channel a couple of days ago and have been watching many of your videos. I am just a guitarist but I have found your information and videos very useful in making me look at things differently. I am primarily a rock and blues player but I have a great appreciation for compositions and classical music. I love hearing rock/electric guitar over classical instruments and progressions.
    🤘🎸😎

    • @romulusxyz6722
      @romulusxyz6722 Před 2 lety

      He's a gem! Shares a significant amount of knowledge in theory, hardware, and software!

  • @misi1979
    @misi1979 Před 2 lety

    Love You'r enthusiastic and excited way of explaining like a kid who discover something and He's just eager to show it. Helpful info;s for newbies like Me. Much health and wishing the best for You :)

  • @prodsgbeatz
    @prodsgbeatz Před 2 lety +1

    The yearly Controller Video🤝🖤

    • @ThinkSpaceEducation
      @ThinkSpaceEducation  Před 2 lety +3

      Well exactly. People just keep on making kit! I keep telling them to stop but they take no notice

  • @brandnewbadidea1
    @brandnewbadidea1 Před rokem

    Ace, really enjoyed :)

  • @ennrib
    @ennrib Před 2 lety +5

    This guys passion for music gives me life!

  • @limayesus
    @limayesus Před 2 lety

    That Enhancia Nuevo Ring thingy seems like crazy fun! I personally use a Korg nanoKontrol 2, as it's quite easy on the pocket :-). It has worked quite well for me over the past 3-4 years and it's quite convenient to do MIDI CC rides using the faders and adding a lot of expressions and dynamics to strings, or horns and doing filter cutoff things with the knobs on a few synths, etc.I also have assigned my most used Logic Pro X key commands to its buttons which has made my workflow quite efficient and speedy. So for me the nanoKontrol 2 is really bang for the buck. Thanks for another great video.

    • @roddypiper1097
      @roddypiper1097 Před 2 lety

      I agree that wireless ring controller looks really cool! 👌

  • @yaboiii6214
    @yaboiii6214 Před 2 lety +15

    I found the cheap full size MIDI controllers so incredibly expensive that I made my own one and it works great, only cost me around 35 euros total :)

    • @ThinkSpaceEducation
      @ThinkSpaceEducation  Před 2 lety +22

      Wow! Make a YT video about that

    • @JFrenchman
      @JFrenchman Před 2 lety +6

      I second the idea of making a CZcams video about it. I need a controller but money is too tight for anything on the market

    • @yaboiii6214
      @yaboiii6214 Před 2 lety +2

      ​@@ark6969 not Arduino based, I designed a PCB with a USB compatible microcontroller from Microchip, but I think it would also be possible and probably easier to do with some Arduino's that are capable of USB communication.

    • @yaboiii6214
      @yaboiii6214 Před 2 lety +2

      ​@@JFrenchman The one that I made might be difficult to cheaply reproduce as a DIY, because to program the chip I used an expensive programmer is needed, which costs €60,-.
      I could clean up the design a bit and sell a few for a good price.
      A big part of the costs for me were shipping costs so if there is enough demand I can order the parts cheaply and sell the MIDI controller for a very low price compared to all the other ones I have seen on the internet.
      So please let me know if you're interested :)

    • @Channel-Z
      @Channel-Z Před 2 lety +2

      That 'MyBoiii', is impressive! =)

  • @project1265ffo
    @project1265ffo Před 2 lety

    Great information 👌

  • @Dr-Stu
    @Dr-Stu Před 2 lety

    So cool that you got Michael Eavis to do a guest spot on the show. 👍👍

  • @TheValueOfN
    @TheValueOfN Před 2 lety +2

    Some of the DAW-specific controller keyboards will be better suited to some creators than some of the generic midi controllers will.
    The Novation Launchkey Mini Mk 3 has great integration for Ableton Live, with 8 pots and many programmable shortcuts. I love mine.
    My Nektar Impact LX61+ works amazingly well with Reason, (and it has 9 sliders too).
    Transport controls are a godsend on controller keyboards too.

  • @sidarthhnair
    @sidarthhnair Před 2 lety

    The Enhancia Neova is too crazy! What a controller.

  • @keithgiosa
    @keithgiosa Před 2 lety +2

    The nonKontrol is a great starter. It is fully programmable (I had it set up for the basic Spitfire controllers and mic faders and had all of the buttons programmed for keyswitching.) The problem is that it was a pain to switch MIDI channels. The Palette Gear has paid off big time and was worth the price (with holiday discounts). The knobs also can be pushed down to target a 3rd action. Well built and easy to set up. That and the Streamdeck have changed my workflow in a way I haven’t experienced in years. Great vid, Guy!

    • @FrankBell
      @FrankBell Před 7 měsíci

      im still trying to figure out the controls for the 3 different mic placements in various spitfire libs, but to no avail (in nanoKontrol)

    • @keithgiosa
      @keithgiosa Před 7 měsíci +1

      @@FrankBell They should be CC 22-27 (depending on how many mics). I can’t recall if I had them assigned to the knobs at the top or the last few faders. You can just map the controls of your choice to match the CC in the Spitfire library. (Right-clicking the fader in the plug-in should tell you the CC# or let you reassign in the plug-in.

    • @FrankBell
      @FrankBell Před 7 měsíci

      Thanks brother!! @@keithgiosa

  • @umatgeratonleik2584
    @umatgeratonleik2584 Před 2 lety

    This might be hard for a British man to take, but I feel like sharing, so Guy, just know that I feel deep love and gratitude for you right now ♥️

  • @helenlynch3333
    @helenlynch3333 Před 2 lety

    Hi, Guy! It’s been a while. Hope you and yours are well. Congratulations on reaching the newest subscriber milestone. Nice to come back and catch up on what I’ve missed here over the past year. I got a giggle when you took the Korg NanoKontrol2 out of the box as I’m no longer using mine either! The sliders are for ants. :) I’ve been given a list of really cool midi fader controllers from smaller producers, should you ever like me to share them with the TSE gang. Also considering the Monogram, ever since Christian demoed it. Anyway, have a great weekend! - Helen

  • @LindaMissad
    @LindaMissad Před 2 lety

    Hi Guy, a year ago I bought an Arturia MK2 Keylab88 keyboard controller for $1000. LOVE the touch and it has sliders, knobs and pads -- all programmable. It also has flashy lights (grin). Thanks for this video. Still learning how to attach controllers to the knobs in a synth. Take care.

    • @KevboKev
      @KevboKev Před 2 lety

      I was debating on t he MK2 Keylab88 and the NI SS88. What I like about the NI is the color strip to designate the key switches. My keyboard and PC monitors are perpendicular to each other, so knowing where the key switches are by color would save my neck the extra strain.
      How you like the Keylab using VSTs? I just wish the faders were more on the left of the keyboard to easily use my left hand to control.

    • @LindaMissad
      @LindaMissad Před 2 lety +1

      @@KevboKev It works great with the VSTs. Good point on the location of the faders. I guess I've gotten used to it. It does come with a large library of sound samples so you can take it out on the road. I haven't used much of that except for the piano sounds

  • @prucopyn720
    @prucopyn720 Před 2 lety

    Thanks Guy. Noticed you said you don't use the big dial on the monogram. Also noticed you had the core module buttons set to G and H. I set the big dial to G and H - it's especially great when zooming in and out of waveforms. I have one of the core buttons set to "shift" so I can use in conjunction with the big dial too.

  • @JH-pe3ro
    @JH-pe3ro Před 2 lety

    I've been back into controllers shopping, with a focus more on art apps instead of music. I have one of the little NanoKontrols and that works fine for just having some knobs and sliders, but for reasons that are beyond me, art applications don't seem to have come around to the idea that they should support MIDI in any direct fashion. What seems to be popular in that category instead is programmable remotes with macro key functions. I have a Xencelabs Quick Keys now which is a nifty 8-button remote with a screen, a wheel, and pagination, not quite as complex as a Streamdeck but comparable in some ways. Something I've noticed about working with it is that it really feels good to have a handheld controller instead of a desk surface that you have to reach for, it's just better ergonomically and lets you lean back more. And with pagination it's possible to set up a bunch of modes for various types of editing. I might consider picking up a second one so that I can dual-wield, with one "context" in each hand.
    I notice that there's a kind of "hierarchy" to my controller usage. While it might seem like having more is better, it also means you stop and fumble around more. Most of the benefit is just from having one or two easily accessible buttons or knobs for a certain workflow. So I like having a relatively small number of inputs on a surface that I'm going to make a lot of edits with so that the muscle memory gets dialed in, but then I also like "wide" surfaces with a lot of buttons and labels for the less frequent operations, to avoid menu dives. For those it could make more sense to script a second keyboard with macros and just label it with some tape and markers than to invest in a niche gadget. The video editor for Linus Tech Tips has a great video on doing exactly that and he seems to have been more productive with it than most of the devices he's reviewed trying to do similar things.

  • @CplcDesbiens
    @CplcDesbiens Před rokem

    Hi, thank you for this great video. 🙂

  • @mattystuartsydney
    @mattystuartsydney Před rokem

    I made an Arduino midi controller for my Cubase transport, using Sanwa Arcade buttons. Now I can smash the living crikey out of my record and rewind/locate buttons while I do take after take after take of guitar stuff-ups. Brilliant.

  • @cykkm
    @cykkm Před 3 měsíci

    I'm a synth person, not a sampler person. If it's sounds remotely like any real instrument, well, that's bad! Needless to say, I adore esoteric controls. (It's worth noting that the most esoteric at the time Theremin is now a classical instrument: performance control ideas of a lucky harvest do age like eau-de-vie vieux.) I've tinkered a lot with different contraptions, some made from mud and straw, some from repurposed hardware. My favourite ones, at different times, were a Venturi tube breath controller with a set of pressure sensors and a few loops of tubing, which I could blow into and change the relation between pressure readings/CC values by tilting my head to squeeze the loop between my chin and neck; and a battle-scarred but still cheerful Wacom paintbrush tablet sensing the brush pressure, angle and movement, which I bought at a real blinder of a price and connected to an Atmel AVR microcontroller to decode its serial port output into MIDI CC messages. If only Arduino and Raspbery Pi had existed back then! Programming these slow, low-memory μCs in the assembly language was a tough row to hoe...
    My eyes nearly popped out seeing the Enhancia, which I never heard of before-only to learn that they went out of business in 2022, just two months after this video came out. La fin d'une belle aventure, as they have it on the web site... :(

  • @James__Gregory
    @James__Gregory Před 2 lety +1

    Your videos are so excellent. Entertaining and informative. Thank you so much for doing them. One question about your KK-S88… I know that you love it, but have you had any reliability or compatibility issues with it? I am on the fence, comparing it to the Studiologic SL88 grand. It seems like the more reviews you read on any instrument, the harder it is to make a decision because everybody has good and bad experiences but I have been reading some things about Native Instruments having iffy customer support and some software glitches more recently with Logic Pro and M1 Macs. Have you experienced anything that would make you hesitate to buy it again over another premium controller? I come from a classical piano background so to me having a very good action is important, and that eliminates a lot of other choices. Seems like the Fatar TP40Wood action in the StudioLogic SL88 Grand gets a lot of praise over the Fatar TP-100 action they use in SL88-Studio version (shared with the KK-S88).

  • @BrantK147
    @BrantK147 Před 9 měsíci

    Working in your office on a rainy day must be heaven 😍

  • @rolandwehlend
    @rolandwehlend Před 2 lety +3

    I opted for the Korg Nanokontrol Studio - the bigger brother of the Nanokontrol that Guy was showing. Advantage: I can use it as expression controller but also as DAW controller. It works great and has blinky lights when it is idling. I like blinky lights too - hehe 🙂

    • @Slynell1
      @Slynell1 Před 5 měsíci

      so it is programmable?

    • @rolandwehlend
      @rolandwehlend Před 5 měsíci +1

      @@Slynell1 Yes, with the Korg Kontrol Editor

  • @Beethovan
    @Beethovan Před rokem

    Thanks Guy.

  • @TheSparkxXx
    @TheSparkxXx Před 2 lety

    hi im Diana from Singapore thx for the shout-out and thankful for this amazing vid learned a lot from it ❤👍

  • @zackwrightmusic
    @zackwrightmusic Před 2 lety +14

    The Nanokontrol is indeed programmable via the Korg Kontrol Editor software.

    • @ThinkSpaceEducation
      @ThinkSpaceEducation  Před 2 lety +3

      AHA! I couldnt do that so maybe its been updated

    • @DravenSlaven
      @DravenSlaven Před 2 lety

      I have one, because my s61 mk1 doesn't have faders. and the korg works great! much cheaper than the other options! though Im sure if you're experienced with nicer faders, these probably feel bad; but ignorance is bliss, so I don't know what I'm missing lol

    • @avsystem3142
      @avsystem3142 Před 2 lety +1

      @@ThinkSpaceEducation Same here, I purchased one and had to return it because the software wasn't compatible with Windows 10, of all things! I instead purchased a Nektar Panorama P1, which has a ton of sliders and knobs and is fully programmable, although not with software. You have to use the controls and display on the device to program it. That is slightly less convenient but avoids obsolescence because of O/S evolution.

    • @hotz730
      @hotz730 Před 2 lety

      I have 3 of them, programmed and perfectly working on Mac Big Sur and Windows 10

    • @thomaslinder6299
      @thomaslinder6299 Před 2 lety

      @@hotz730 I'm happy to hear this is working for you, as I, too, have 3 Nektar devices (P1, LX88, Aura) I'm just starting to configure into an integrated setup for LPX7. Are you using Nektarine for any/all of your P1's?

  • @DavidLToliver
    @DavidLToliver Před 2 lety

    Great video always enjoy your video. Question for you - What is the unit on top of your keyboard on the left?

  • @g3nius
    @g3nius Před 2 lety

    Interessting hardware ... thanks for the info

  • @boerboelmummy5075
    @boerboelmummy5075 Před 2 lety

    Thanks Guy

  • @user-zu2fl8dt6p
    @user-zu2fl8dt6p Před rokem +1

    Thank you!
    🙂🙏

  • @scentline
    @scentline Před rokem +2

    I love my ICON Platform M+. The motorized faders are a little bit jittery when it’s used as a DAW controller and a bit bulky when it’s used as a CC controller, but it’s well-built, all programmable, and there are no competitors with 8 100mm metal feel faders and 8 360’ rotary knobs (some of them fail to be programed though) in that price range in the niche musicians’ market. Nektar P1 is quite close, but it only offers 60mm plastic faders. You can use M+ as a portable MIDI CC controller and DAW controller if you really want to. I use it as a MIDI CC controller and oldies but goodies brothers - AVID Artist Mix and Euphonix MC Transport as DAW controllers at my studio. BTW, You don’t need to get the extra display, Platform D2. Its font is ugly and the info from the screen is almost uselss. I bought it and just sold it.

  • @fileptorlao7165
    @fileptorlao7165 Před 2 lety

    Very nice video thank you very much

  • @Mundproductionfunkhaus

    I learned a lot and I h ve been doing This stuff for a life time

  • @replicant6
    @replicant6 Před 2 lety +1

    My solution for the moment is a Novation Launchkey mini mk3. The mod strip works well, and I assigned the pads to keyswitches. Working great for now both as a desktop unit and to work in tandem with my FP-30 (which has great keys but zero controls). I like it much more than my M32. Actually fits in a backpack, has more functionality, and the touchstrips feel longer and much smoother. I really wish that NI and Novation would allow you to reprogram both touch strips though. I don’t use pitch bend but having both CC1 and CC11 on a portable keyboard would be amazing!

    • @TheValueOfN
      @TheValueOfN Před 2 lety

      It has great integration for Ableton Live too. I love mine. My Nektar Impact LX61+ works amazingly well with Reason, (and it has 9 sliders too). Some of the DAW-specific controller keyboards will be better suited to some creators than some of the generic midi controllers will.

  • @renthehag
    @renthehag Před 2 lety +1

    Aw man, I’m actively trying to curb my Gear Acquisition Syndrome and then you come out with this 😂
    Just kidding. I’ve actually been trying to find a decent MIDI controller with faders and have held off on pulling the trigger for close to six months because I just got an S88 MKII of my own and even though I got mine secondhand, WHOO boy, those are not inexpensive. This video gave me some really good options to look at. And I trust your recommendations. So thank you for this!

  • @JMCV2
    @JMCV2 Před 6 měsíci

    The Arturia Keylab keyboards are quite good too and have everything: pads, faders and knobs !

  • @ThomasCGass
    @ThomasCGass Před 2 lety +1

    I love the BCF2000 by Behringer. Although the faders are rather "noisy", the fact that they are motorized comes in very handy in different automation modes, e.g. if you want to correct controller data already recorded

  • @alain_de_frothcorn
    @alain_de_frothcorn Před 2 lety

    I was rather taken with the Streamdeck XL device but didn't fancy all the programming involved - of course I didn't have to reinvent the wheel - a template is available for Cubase Pro (not free but not a crazy price) and an excellent instruction video which gave me the nudge I needed to buy it :-)

  • @fromdeepmusic
    @fromdeepmusic Před 2 lety

    Cool cool🙌🎉keep it up!!!

  • @stevegalante
    @stevegalante Před rokem +1

    Hi Guy, great video as always ! I have one question... is there any MOTORIZED controller that we can use to program midi expressions/parameters ?
    The purpose is mainly when you have to retouch or change an expression curve, having a motorized controller would let you start re-programming from the exact value already recorded (hope it's clear).
    Thanks !

  • @PfhorShark
    @PfhorShark Před 2 lety

    Just found you, and apparently you composed the themes for Eyewitness back in the 90s?! Huge fan.

  • @logjamstomper1280
    @logjamstomper1280 Před 2 lety

    Hello Guy, Helpful video as always. I just wanted to know if the Streamdeck is sold with Cubase templates as part of the deal or whether they have to be purchased separately? I couldn't find a straight answer to this question on line. How did you set your unit up? It looks pretty good.

  • @ChefeSergio
    @ChefeSergio Před 2 lety

    I'm literally searching for a good DAW-Controller at the moment. Suddenly Guy comes up with this video. Thanks Guy, but please get out of my head, yes? :D

  • @magicmulder
    @magicmulder Před 2 lety

    For me the Stream Deck was a game changer. I also used NI Maschine Studio a lot for transport controls but have mostly replaced it with the former.
    I also used the Icon M+ with its B+ extension but found the Stream Deck is a lot more comfortable to use for action keys, and I don’t spend that much time with mixing so it just wasn’t worth it.
    The S88 Mk2 is wonderful, but a bit expensive and since in my setup the keyboard is below my desk and only the keys protrude out, I couldn’t make use of all its fancy screens and knobs or I would be too far away from my desk.

  • @albertpepper1
    @albertpepper1 Před 2 lety

    Thank you Guy! I was thinking to get a monogram in a while. I’m tossed up if keep the NI S88 or not as the action is very heavy compared o a baby grand and by having a monogram I can basically have a cheaper keyboard than s88. What are your advise on it? is there an alternative to KKs88? Best

  • @marchelfman3278
    @marchelfman3278 Před 2 lety

    Don’t forget about Electronic Wind Instruments (EWIs) for those of us that have experience playing a wind instrument but not a keyboard. I enjoy my Roland AE-10 to play various orchestral instruments such as the cello, bassoon, and tuba!

  • @joecantdance494
    @joecantdance494 Před 2 lety

    Using a Nektar Gx61 with sliders and knobs and it does the job for me. Keyboard sensitivity could be better but I'm not much of a pianist anyway so not that big a problem

  • @mikekane9881
    @mikekane9881 Před 2 lety

    Nice video! I have the Korg controller and the sliders are programable via software. Thanks.

  • @lesliemakin
    @lesliemakin Před 2 lety

    I've had some success with Touch OSC. You have to programme it but can easily make shortcut buttons and faders. I use an old iPad as the controller.