Website: http://www.nektartech.com
While Nektar makes a line of MIDI keyboard controllers which can be used for controlling almost any DAW, what I found most interesting was their Panorama P1 controller. The Panorama P1 has 16 encoders, 9 faders, 10 LCD buttons, 11 transport buttons, and 20 preset locations. This is one serious controller in which most of the buttons and faders can be assigned to control both your own DAW’s plugins, as well as third party plugins. The Panorama P1 controller provides the ability in most cases to leave the mouse and keyboard behind as it is well integrated with Bigwig, Logic X, Reason, Cubase, MainStage, and Reaper, and makes use of a small digital display to keep track of what is being controlled without the need of the computer screen.
As someone who creates orchestral Mock-ups, I already have my favourite keyboard, and the Panorama P1 gives me the control of the Nektar MIDI keyboard controller without the keys. It’s also interesting to make note of how the product works, unlike the Novation Nocturn which I owned before it became a legacy product, the Panorama does not use a wrapper software, it accesses the plugins directly.
If you’re looking for a great general all around controller that can be used for both mixing and controlling your DAW’s plugins this may be the option for you.