![]() Keystep 37 - Solid upgrade to the Keystep I already have, just no pads. ![]() No knobs or faders, but the pads double as keys for what is probably the most portable option. Very interesting MPE controller, price is decent. I expect the build quality to be on the lower side based on the price, but seems like a pretty perfect fit for portable studio setup. It is extremely customizable via software, such that it could control a whole bunch of instruments at once, which is very enticing. In terms of features per dollar, this thing wins easily. M-Audio Oxygen Pro Mini (or one of the larger versions). On the Digitone I can use a MIDI track to map 8 knobs to the Blackbox. But pretty much wastes the Model:Samples potential as an actual instrument. I've experimented with using the Model:Samples as 'just a bunch of knobs' style MIDI controller with the Blackbox, and it works as expected. Could be interesting, but expensive.ĭigitone and Model:Samples - these are my primary instruments, and both can be pretty good MIDI controllers themselves. I've also considered a Circuit Tracks/Rhythm as primarily a MIDI controller, and secondarily an instrument. Novation Circuit OG - obviously not just a MIDI controller, but when I look at stuff like the Launchpads I often think I might as well just use the Circuit. ![]() Extremely limited MIDI implementation, but very enjoyable to use. Akai makes the best drum pads, and this a super cheap gateway into it. Portability is OK.Īkai MPX8 - technically an instrument, but I only use it as a MIDI controller. So many cool functions.Īrturia Keystep 32 - such as stalwart keyboard, but lacks useful knobs, faders, pads, etc. Novation 61SLMKIII - excellent keys and knobs, but large, and the pads are fine but not my favorite. Ideally an Out + Thru mode, so the MIDI controller signals could be merged with MIDI sequencer data. It is a shame the Blackbox can't pass MIDI through to downstream synths, I'm hoping that comes in future firmware, because I would definitely use it. ![]() That said, any controller that also has TRS or 5 PIN MIDI is more enticing, as it will be compatible with more instruments as well. I've been researching portable MIDI controllers for a good long while now to use with my other gear, but the Blackbox is the first item I own with USB Host capabilities, so that opens up a whole slew of controllers that I've previously ignored. So it is generally simpler stuff like chord progressions and basslines. But I don't end up playing very complex 'piano' style parts on mini keyboards, I have my big keyboard for that. For the instrument side of things, I like drum pads for finger drumming, and I like keys + knobs/faders for playing synth parts and multisamples. Granular, for instance, I haven't touched yet.įor the utility side of things, I would like to experiment more with quick record/clear MIDI mappings for 16 grid drum pads, perhaps for a live looping type workflow. I mostly bought it with song arrangement in mind, but I can tell it has a lot of potential as an instrument itself. Thus far I'm mostly using the Blackbox to record loops from my other instruments, but I'm still exploring all the stuff it can do. But I mostly use Blackbox on the couch, traveling, etc, so a large keyboard doesn't really work for that. I've already got a big home studio unit, the Novation SL MKIII. I've read that the USB Host port can't support USB Hubs, but could I use two different MIDI controllers through both the USB and TRS ports simultaneously?įor my own uses, I'm mostly interested in compact portable options. It would be interesting to learn about these types of setups. I like that the Blackbox can be used as an instrument, but also as a studio utility, so I figure folks have different MIDI controller setups catered to different workflows. What's your favorite MIDI controller to use with the Blackbox?
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