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
- 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.
- PREMIUM DAW CONTROL: Elevate your music production with the iCON Pro Audio P1 Nano, a compact USB C-MIDI control surface that puts powerful DAW control at your fingertips.
- CUSTOMIZABLE TOUCHSCREEN DISPLAY: The P1 Nano features a 4-inch touchscreen display with 5 color-coded layers, offering up to 80 displayable and actionable functions that you can easily organize in real-time to match your workflow.
- MULTI-DAW COMPATIBILITY: Seamlessly integrate with popular DAWs including Bitwig, Cubase/Nuendo, Logic Pro X, Ableton Live, and Pro Tools. Connect to and control up to three DAWs simultaneously, enhancing your creative experience.
- PRECISION CONTROL: Enjoy a touch-sensitive motorized fader with 12-bit resolution, 8 dual-function encoder knobs, illuminated automation command buttons, and a smooth-action jog wheel for precise control over your projects.
- DURABLE & VERSATILE: Built with superior quality and a robust metal casing, the P1 Nano is compact and portable while supporting Mackie Control and HUI protocols. It's compatible with both MacOS and Windows systems and offers firmware upgrades via USB C.
- ENHANCED PRECISION - Navigate timelines with pinpoint accuracy using the jog wheel, offering frame-by-frame control for meticulous editing and review processes.
- SEAMLESS COMPATIBILITY - Works flawlessly with Mac OS 8.6 through 9.x, OS 10.1+, and Windows 98 to XP, ensuring broad compatibility across various editing platforms.
- CUSTOMIZABLE WORKFLOW - Personalize your editing experience by mapping the five programmable buttons to your most frequently used commands, boosting efficiency.
- ERGONOMIC COMFORT - Designed for extended use, the ShuttleXpress provides a comfortable and intuitive interface, reducing strain during long editing sessions.
- DURABLE BUILD - Built to last, this controller features high-quality materials ensuring reliability and longevity, making it a dependable tool for daily use.
- Music Production and Beat Maker Essential -USB powered MIDI controller with 25 mini MIDI keyboard velocity-sensitive keys for studio production, virtual synthesizer control and beat production
- Total Control of your Production - Innovative 4-way thumbstick for dynamic pitch and modulation control, plus a built-in arpeggiator with adjustable resolution, range and modes
- Native Kontrol Standard (NKS) Integration - Akai Professional and Native Instruments have partnered to bring NKS support to the MPK Controller series, get ready to Kontrol straight from your MPK
- Choose Your Exclusive Complimentary NKS Bundle - Browse and control Native Instruments presets and sound libraries; select one of three curated Komplete 15 Select bundles: Beats, Band, or Electronic
- The MPC Experience - 8 backlit velocity-sensitive MPC-style MIDI beat pads with Note Repeat and Full Level for programming drums, triggering samples and controlling virtual synthesizer / DAW controls
- 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
- PREMIUM DAW CONTROL: Elevate your music production with the iCON Pro Audio P1 Nano, a compact USB C-MIDI control surface that puts powerful DAW control at your fingertips.
- CUSTOMIZABLE TOUCHSCREEN DISPLAY: The P1 Nano features a 4-inch touchscreen display with 5 color-coded layers, offering up to 80 displayable and actionable functions that you can easily organize in real-time to match your workflow.
- MULTI-DAW COMPATIBILITY: Seamlessly integrate with popular DAWs including Bitwig, Cubase/Nuendo, Logic Pro X, Ableton Live, and Pro Tools. Connect to and control up to three DAWs simultaneously, enhancing your creative experience.
- PRECISION CONTROL: Enjoy a touch-sensitive motorized fader with 12-bit resolution, 8 dual-function encoder knobs, illuminated automation command buttons, and a smooth-action jog wheel for precise control over your projects.
- DURABLE & VERSATILE: Built with superior quality and a robust metal casing, the P1 Nano is compact and portable while supporting Mackie Control and HUI protocols. It's compatible with both MacOS and Windows systems and offers firmware upgrades via USB C.
- Mono/Mute/Dim Buttons
- Pristine audio quality
- Choose between two sources and two monitor pairs
- Sturdy built-like-a-tank design
- UNLOCK UNPARALLELED CONTROL: Enhance your music production setup with the iCON Pro Audio P1-X Extender, designed to seamlessly expand the capabilities of the P1-M MIDI DAW controller.
- PRECISION AT YOUR FINGERTIPS: Eight touch-sensitive motorized faders with 12-bit resolution and eight dual-function encoder knobs provide you with precise control over your digital audio workstation, ensuring a superior music production experience.
- CUSTOMIZED CONTROL SURFACE: Craft a personalized control surface tailored to your preferences and requirements with illuminated mute, solo, select, and record buttons, as well as the option to add the D4 OLED display for essential channel information.
- UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY: The P1-X supports Universal Mackie Control and HUI protocols, offering seamless integration with a wide range of popular music production software, making it a versatile choice for any DAW user.
- ROBUST AND RELIABLE: Built with superior quality and a durable metal casing, the P1-X is not only hard-wearing but also features USB C high-speed connectivity, firmware upgrades via USB C, and a Cortex-M7 @500 MHz ARM chip for superb reliability.
- USB/MIDI Controller with 9 Touch-sensitive Mot Faders
- 39 Illuminated Buttons
- 16 Rotary Encoders
- 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.
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.