As a musician, you know that having the best digital audio workstation controller can make a big difference in your work. There are many factors to consider when choosing a controller, so it’s important to do your research before making a purchase. Here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for a digital audio workstation controller:
1. Price: OF course, you’ll want to consider your budget when shopping for a controller. There are a variety of controllers available at different price points, so it’s important to find one that fits your needs and budget.
2. Features: Another important consideration is the features offered by the controller. Some controllers are more feature-rich than others, so you’ll want to choose one that has the features you need.
3. Compatibility: You’ll also want to make sure that the controller you choose is compatible with your digital audio workstation. Not all controllers are compatible with all software, so it’s important to check before making a purchase.
4. Ease of use: Finally, you’ll want to consider how easy the controller is to use. Some controllers are more user-friendly than others, so it’s important to find one that is easy to use and understand.
Best Digital Audio Workstation Controllers: Editor Recommended
Our Editor’s Best Digital Audio Workstation Controllers Reviews
- Tethered: Needs to be connected to a computer with Ableton Live. Push gives you detailed control over Live running on your computer. Ableton Live Intro software is included.
- MPE Pads: 64 MPE-enabled pads, each featuring an XY sensor that detects your finger’s movement across the surface of the pad.
- Expressive Touch: Mimic fretless strings, play smooth shifting chords, vary bowing techniques - all without taking your hands off the pads.
- Finger Drumming: Play different percussion articulations within a pad – hits and rolls, open and closed hi-hats, sticks and brushes.
- Audio Interface: Built-in audio interface with two inputs switchable between line (balanced) or instrument (unbalanced), and two balanced outputs.
- Complete Command of Ableton Live - Seamlessly integrates with Ableton Live (V9.1.3+), providing hands-on control of Ableton's clip matrix, mixer parameters, virtual instruments, effects, and more
- Create, Jam, Produce - Trigger clips, loops and samples using a 5X8 clip-launch matrix with RGB feedback for clip status and color coding
- Essential Control - Take command of DAW parameters, virtual instruments, and effects with 9 channel faders, 8 control knobs, and 8 device controls that seamlessly map with Ableton Live
- Intelligently Designed Assignable Crossfader - Conveniently located assignable A/B crossfader for dynamic DJ-style mixing on the fly
- Unparalleled Control for Lighting Design - Use the robust faders and buttons to dynamically adjust lighting cues and effects, transforming any performance space into a captivating visual experience
- Mix with precision via 16 100 mm touch-sensitive motorized faders and 89 buttons covering 104 different functions, all in a compact chassis that easily sits on any desk.
- Features 16 high-definition Scribble Strip displays so you can identify channels at a glance.
- Contains complete recording-transport controls, general session controls, marker navigation controls, channel controls, and automation controls.
- Innovative Session Navigator provides quick control over Track and Timeline Scrolling, Zooming, Master fader control, and much more.
- Faders also have alternative modes to control plug-ins, bus sends, and pan position.
- Multimedia Volume Knob: The VOL20 is a versatile desktop volume controller with Bluetooth wireless and USB-C connectivity, offering real-time volume adjustments. Perfect for music lovers, gamers, and professionals who demand precise volume control
- Multi-Functional: Simple yet versatile, the knob's button lets you easily control play, pause, previous track, next track, mute, and volume adjustment. With just one knob, you can conveniently manage all your music playback controls
- All-Metal Construction: Precisely crafted from zinc alloy using CNC machining, ensuring a premium feel and lasting durability. The large 55mm diameter design adds substantial weight, providing a stable and slip-free experience during operation
- RGB Lighting: Offers constant on, auto-off after 5 seconds, spectrum cycling, and off modes. Four modes at your fingertips—freely switch between colors and lighting modes to create the perfect ambiance just the way you like it
- Effortless Installation: Compatible with digital audio sources that support USB or Bluetooth peripherals, including PCs, Macs, laptops, mobile phones, tablets, digital audio players, and streamers. Simply plug and play with no complicated setup required
- Complete Mix Control - Lightweight, compact and robust ultra-portable MIDI mixer / DAW controller seamlessly maps all mixer settings to your DAW with a single push of a button
- Mixdown Essentials - 8 individual line faders and 1 master fader for controlling track volume, virtual instrument parameters, effect settings and more
- Assignable Control - 24 knobs, arranged 3 per channel for controlling EQ, bus sends, virtual instrument parameters, effect settings and more
- Get Hands-On - 16 buttons arranged in 2 banks provide mute, solo and record arm functionality per channel
- Effortless Ableton Live Integration - Instant 1 to 1 mapping with Ableton Live (Ableton Live Lite included)
- Provides a single touch-sensitive, 100 mm long-throw, motorized fader for writing fades and automation in real-time.
- Large 360-degree push-button encoder allows you to edit and mix with greater efficiency and speed.
- Equipped with 24 buttons covering 40 different functions such as transport controls, channel record-enable, enable/disable looping, automation behavior selection, and more. Also contains user-definable function buttons.
- Innovative Session Navigator section makes mixing and controlling DAWs quick and easy.
- Comes with over $1000 worth of recording software including Studio One Artist (for which it has seamless & native support), Ableton Live Lite, and Studio Magic plug-in suite.
- Universal DAW Remote Control for Studio and Live applications
- Supports HUI and Mackie Control protocols for seamless integration with every compatible music production software
- 9 fully automated and touch-sensitive 100 mm motorized faders
- 8 dynamic LCD Scribble Strips for instant overview of track names and parameters
- Ethernet interface for RTP (Real-Time Protocol) MIDI and future BEHRINGER X32 remote control
- Mono/Mute/Dim Buttons
- Pristine audio quality
- Choose between two sources and two monitor pairs
- Sturdy built-like-a-tank design
- PREMIUM DAW CONTROL: Elevate your music production with the iCON Pro Audio P1-M Professional USB-MIDI Control Surface, designed to streamline your workflow and enhance productivity
- ULTIMATE CONTROL AT YOUR FINGERTIPS: This powerful device features 8 touch-sensitive motorized faders with 12-bit resolution, providing precise control over your DAW functions.
- CUSTOMIZABLE TOUCHSCREEN: The 4-inch, 16-panel digital touchscreen display allows for easy customization of up to 80 displayable and actionable functions via 'drag and drop' in the iMAPTM software.
- DAW INTEGRATION MADE EASY: Connect up to 3 DAWs simultaneously using the DAW select buttons, and enjoy seamless integration with leading DAW software including Pro Tools, Logic Pro, Ableton Live, and more.
- DURABLE AND VERSATILE: Built with durability in mind, the P1-M features a robust metal casing, smooth-action jog wheel, illuminated buttons, and supports Universal Mackie Control and HUI protocols.
- PREMIUM DAW CONTROLLER: Elevate your digital audio production with the V1-M, a feature-packed DAW controller designed for efficiency and creativity.
- UNPARALLELED CONTROL: The V1-M offers 8 touch-sensitive motorized faders with 12-bit resolution, expandable to an incredible 64 channels with the V1-X DAW Control Expanders.
- INTUITIVE TOUCHSCREEN DISPLAY: Enjoy a large, customizable 7-inch touchscreen with 5 color-coded layers, allowing you to access up to 120 DAW functions easily and tailor your workflow in real-time.
- SEAMLESS DAW INTEGRATION: This controller seamlessly integrates with popular DAWs like Bitwig, Cubase/Nuendo, Logic Pro X, Ableton Live, and Pro Tools, and can connect to three DAWs simultaneously.
- REAL-TIME FEEDBACK: Stay in control with the OLED display, meter bridge, and lower TFT displays providing real-time feedback on levels, pan positions, and more, all independent of your computer monitor.
What else you should know about the best digital audio workstation controllers
1. What are the best digital audio workstation controllers on the market?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best digital audio workstation controller for a given person may vary depending on their specific needs and preferences. However, some popular digital audio workstation controllers on the market include the Akai MPK2 series, the M-Audio Axiom series, and the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S-Series.
2. What are the features of a good digital audio workstation controller?
A good digital audio workstation controller will have a variety of input options, including MIDI and USB. It will also have a large number of buttons and pads to control various aspects of the DAW, as well as a large, clear display.
3. What are the benefits of using a digital audio workstation controller?
Some benefits of using a digital audio workstation controller include having more control over the digital audio workstation, being able to see the digital audio workstation’s interface, and being able to use physical controls to manipulate the digital audio workstation.
4. How do I choose the right digital audio workstation controller for my needs?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best digital audio workstation controller for your needs will depend on a number of factors, including the size and complexity of your setup, your budget, and your personal preferences.
However, some things to keep in mind when choosing a digital audio workstation controller include the number of faders, knobs, and buttons it has, as well as its compatibility with your computer and other equipment.
Additionally, it is important to consider how easy the controller is to use and whether it offers features that are important to you, such as transport controls, auto-mapping, and plugin integration.
5. What are the best digital audio workstation controllers for beginners?
There is no one “best” digital audio workstation controller for beginners. However, some popular choices include the Akai MPK mini, the Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S-Series, and the M-Audio Oxygen series.
Conclusion
On the market, there are numerous best digital audio workstation controllers. Hopefully, the list of the top ten best digital audio workstation controllers will save you time researching and deciding on the best one for you.