Are you trying to find digital audio workstation controllers among various brands on the market but aren’t sure where to begin? To assist you in finding the right one, we’ve put together a list of the 7 best to help you pick the perfect one!
We investigated and evaluated a number of the top-selling digital audio workstation controllers on the market in order to create our list of the best. Making a decision among the many options available is never simple. There are an infinite number of models available, each with a distinct price. And as you’ll find out, the best options aren’t usually the ones you imagine! This comparison is rich and relevant because of the numerous factors that were employed. You will find products featured in this ranking not only based on their pricing but also on their features and other customers reviews. To write this review, we completed 10 hours of research and did 77 digital audio workstation controllers tests. You won’t need to pick products at random any more. If you’re unsure of what to look for, browse our list and consult the buying guide!
An overview of our top picks
Table of contents
The best digital audio workstation controllers you can buy today
- COMPREHENSIVE AUDIO MIXER FOR PC AND MacOS - The knob paging feature of the BEACN Mix Create audio mixer for PC provides superior control, allowing you to manage more than 4 sources. Whether it's applications, microphones, streaming equipment, or headsets, this audio mixer centralizes all audio controls. It seamlessly integrates into your streaming accessories, ensuring precise management of your USB audio mixer setup for an enhanced gaming experience.
- INTUITIVE DISPLAY FOR COMPLETE CONTROL - The BEACN Mix Create audio mixer features a vibrant 5” full-color display that keeps you in command of your audio at all times. The customizable elements make it easy to identify which apps or hardware you're controlling, making it an indispensable part of your streaming accessories. Whether you're using it as a PC audio mixer or paired with a stream controller, this USB mixer elevates your streaming equipment setup, making it perfect for content creators and gamers alike.
- COMPLETE YOUR COMPUTER ACCESSORIES - The Mix Create stream audio mixer is equipped with smooth push-button encoders for precise volume control and quick muting. This USB audio mixer allows you to effortlessly manage an unlimited number of audio sources, from your gaming setup to your streaming applications. As a versatile PC audio mixer, it enhances your streaming accessories, allowing you to focus on your audience and content creation without compromising audio quality.
- SUBMIXES TO ELEVATE YOUR STREAMER SETUP - With the BEACN Mix Create stream audio mixer, you can easily manage submixes, allowing different audio levels for you and your audience. This audio mixer offers a dedicated submix button that lets you quickly check and adjust your stream mix. This USB audio mixer ensures that your streaming accessories work harmoniously to deliver the best audio experience for your stream, gaming sessions, or content creation.
- POWERFUL ROUTING FOR COMPLETE AUDIO CONTROL - The BEACN Mix Create audio controller features an advanced audio routing table that gives you full control over where your audio is sent, whether it's to your headphones, chat applications, or streaming device. As a audio mixer, it allows you to mute audio to any route on command, making it a crucial part of your streaming equipment. It is designed to expand and contract based on your assigned sources, enhancing your gaming and streaming experience with ease.
- DAW Control Surface with 1 Touch-sensitive Motorized Fader
- 34 Illuminated Buttons
- Rotary Encoder
- Scribble Strip
- 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.
- EXPANDABLE OPTIONS: Expand your control capabilities with the optional P1-X extender unit (8 channels per P1-X) and add the optional D-4T display unit for enhanced channel information.
- PLUG-AND-PLAY COMPATIBILITY: Enjoy hassle-free setup with class-compliant compatibility for Mac, Windows, and more, and stay up to date with firmware upgrades via USB C connection and iMapTM software.
- ENHANCE YOUR CREATIVE PROCESS: The iCON Pro Audio P1-M DAW controller is designed to expedite your project completion, making it a must-have tool for audio professionals and music producers.
- ACCESSORY OPTIONS AVAILABLE: Consider adding the optional D4 display unit for the P1-X to further enhance your control and workflow.
- Illuminated “Zoom” button with 2 directional keys (Left/Right & Up/Down) – used in combination with the jog wheel
- Compact and robust Universal USB Controller for professional audio production
- Features 8 rotary encoders with LED collars and 16 dedicated illuminated buttons for seamless control
- Equipped with a durable 60mm master fader for precision audio output
- Dual-layer mode for switching between DAW and instrument control configurations
- Built-in USB interface for easy connection to Mac or PC and expansion with other controllers
- USB/MIDI Controller with 9 Touch-sensitive Mot Faders
- 39 Illuminated Buttons
- 16 Rotary Encoders
- Controls: 9x Automated, touch sensitive 3.9" (100 mm) motorized faders8x Rotary controls with LED collars92x Dedicated illuminated buttons for key functions1x Jog/shuttle wheel
- Connections: 1x Ethernet port2x USB Type A ports1x USB Type B port1x 5-pin DIN MIDI input1x 5-pin DIN MIDI output2x 1/4" (6.3 mm) footswitch inputs1x 1/4" (6.3 mm) external control input
- Dynamic LCD scribble strips Display: 8
- 8-segment LED channel meters Display: 8
- Protocols Supported: HUIMackie Control
- 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.
- Also compatible with almost all recording software for Mac, Windows, and iPad including Logic Pro X, Cubase, Ableton Live, and Pro Tools via Mackie Control Universal and Mackie HUI emulation.
- Channel control, solo or mute channels, clear all solos or mutes; all at the touch of a button.
- Connects via USB 2.0 for easy connectivity.
- Bypass all plug-ins on one channel or bypass all plug-ins on all channels (not available in all DAWs).
- Footswitch jack included for hands-free punch in/out during recording (footswitch not included).
- Universal DAW control surface with Mackie control and HUI
- 9 touch-sensitive motorized faders
- Presets and overlays for Cubase/Nuendo, Logic Pro, Ableton Live, Pro Tools, studio One, digital performer, FL studio, amplitude, Reaper, Bitwig, Reason, Sonar, and Audition
- Large backlit LCD to display channel name, control values etc. For each channel
- Illuminated buttons for each channel including rec-enable, solo, mute, select and monitor
- Includes free recording software, such as Harrison 32C Vocal Intensity Processor, a “greatest hits” collection of features from Harrison’s analog console heritage, Harrison AVA plugins and Mixbus32C workstation; Tracktion DAW Essentials, a collection of 16 contemporary FX plugins for use with any DAW; Dotec Audio plugins for streaming, podcasting, recording and mixing; and Bitwig Studio 8-Track, the trim and effective digital audio workstation to start producing, performing, and designing sounds like a pro, all available via download upon purchase and registration
- Designed for Avid Pro Tools 2018
- Backlit keys
- Dimmable light with five selectable levels
- Built-in dual usb-ports 2. 0
- 12-channel Digital Mixer with 4 Mic Preamps
- Mix Agent Technology
- USB Audio Interface
- 10.1" Touchscreen
- Bluetooth
- Connect up to four S1s to create an extended integrated surface
- 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 WORKFLOW: From channel control to transport buttons, dedicated flip and master buttons, illuminated zoom and focus functions, the P1 Nano is designed to streamline your workflow and make your music production more efficient.
- OPTIONAL D5 DISPLAY: Expand your control capabilities further with the optional D5 display unit, providing additional visual feedback and control options.
- USER-FRIENDLY SOFTWARE: Download the iMapTM software from the product page for easy configuration and customization of your control surface.
- FOOTSWITCH COMPATIBILITY: The P1 Nano also supports footswitch pedals with User A & User B 1/4 inch inputs, adding even more versatility to your setup.
- POWERFUL AND COMPACT: Weighing just 1.97 pounds and measuring 8.38 x 7.1 x 2.36 inches, the P1 Nano is a compact yet powerful tool for enhancing your music production workflow.
- Wonderful usage experience：Rotate the Multimedia knob to adjust the volume.With one key mute function, just press the knob when you are listening to music, the music will be stopped and start playing if pressing the knob again.Ideal Chirstmas gift for music fans, geek and Youtubers.
- Sturdy and durable：The USB volume control knob is made of high quality metal shell and equipped with solid rotary shaft and removable USB cable, which makes this audio adjuster not only durable but also user friendly.
- Driver Free：This volume control knob supports Win10/8/7/Mac, once you insert it to your computer, it will begin to work. Plug and play, no driver required, you can directly adjust the volume by rotating the knob.
- Delicate and convenient：Easy to carry and use thanks to its mini exquisite design. Combined with aluminum alloy and awesome black appearance, the whole USB volume control knob looks more atmospheric and fashionable.
- Non-slip design：With heavy metal blocks placed inside the base as well as 4 anti-slip mats stick to the bottom , this volume controller is pretty steady. Not easy to move.
- Mono/Mute/Dim Buttons
- Pristine audio quality
- Choose between two sources and two monitor pairs
- Sturdy built-like-a-tank design
- Passive Studio Volume Controller with Dual Pair Input/Output Connects 1/8" Stereo Input
- [Mute Control] : Easily mute your audio with a one-button function for quick silence when needed.
- [Pure Signal Path] : Ensures the purest signal path for optimal results with passive circuitry.
- [Output Interface] : Enjoy seamless connection with 2 xlr outputs and 3.5mm stereo output for your studio monitor.
- [Large Control Knob] : Features a large knob for precise volume adjustment in your studio setup.
- [Input Interfaces] : Connect effortlessly with 2 xlr combo inputs and 3.5mm stereo input.
- 8+1 touch-sensitive motorized faders with 10-bit resolution
- 8 dual-function encoder knobs (rotate and enter)
- Class-compliant with macOS Big Sur (M1 and Intel Compatible), Windows 10, and Windows 8/7 (32 & 64-bit)
- Mackie control built-in for Cubase, Nuendo, Amplitude, Logic Pro, Able ton Live, Reaper, Reason, Studio One and Bit wig
- Platform D2 optional LCD display available separately
- Includes free recording software, such as Harrison 32C Vocal Intensity Processor, a "greatest hits" collection of features from Harrison's analog console heritage, Harrison AVA plugins and Mixbus32C workstation; Tracktion DAW Essentials, a collection of 16 contemporary FX plugins for use with any DAW; Dotec Audio plugins for streaming, podcasting, recording and mixing; and Bitwig Studio 8-Track, the trim and effective digital audio workstation to start producing, performing, and designing sounds like a pro, all available via download upon purchase and registration
- 1-year warranty (18-month with registration) valid if purchased from authorized US dealers
- Monit Controller USB Audio Interface
- 2 Selectable Stereo Outputs
- 3 Selectable Stereo Inputs
- with 2 Mic Preamps
- Talkback
- Monit Controller USB Audio Interface
- 3 Selectable Stereo Outputs
- 4 Selectable Stereo Inputs
- with 2 Mic Preamps
- Talkback
- Midi Multitrack Mac/Win Audio Recording
- Assembly
- Live Music Performance
- Model number: 5391502517895
How to choose a good digital audio workstation controllers
Does the idea of finding a fantastic digital audio workstation controllers make you anxious? When it comes to purchasing this product, specifically when deciding which model to select, has your head been spinning between options? You are not alone if that is the case. We are aware of the pressure involved in the purchasing process!
Your presence here indicates that you are interested in digital audio workstation controllers. Before choosing which product would be the best for your needs after being inundated with information, locate a reliable source with genuine selections. You can get that information from a variety of sources, including buying guides and rating websites, word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and family, online discussion forums where users can share their own experiences, product reviews that can be found all over the internet, and YouTube channels. You can only get the right product through exhaustive analysis. But you realize that’s not always simple. In order to ease your concerns, we have taken the time to develop a list of the top digital audio workstation controllers products available right now. You might be wondering how we came up with the list. How was this buying guide developed?
First, we used our algorithms to gather as much reliable data as we could about these products. To verify all the data gathered, we used both artificial intelligence and a lot of algorithms.
Then, our experts used criteria that are recognized in the business to evaluate them according to their quality to price ratio, allowing us to choose the top digital audio workstation controllers on the market right now!
The selection of the goods is not arbitrary. Before creating a list, we take into account a number of factors. Below are some of the criteria discussed:
Brand Value: What happens if you choose a dubious brand just because it appears to be a good deal? So the likelihood of receiving a product with a short shelf life increases. That is due to the fact that well-known brands have a reputation to uphold, while others do not. Top digital audio workstation controllers brands strive to provide some distinctive traits that set them apart from the competition. So, hopefully one or more of the items on our list will be perfect for you.
Features: Useful features are all you need, not tons of them. We consider the important aspects and select the top digital audio workstation controllers based on those.
Specifications: Numbers always help you measure the quality of a product in a quantitative way. We try to find products with higher specifications, but with the right balance.
Quality: A product’s quality may always be quantified with the aid of numbers. We look for goods with better standards that strike the proper balance. The best quality product that gets highly appreciated and recommended by experienced users.
Customer ratings: Would it be accurate to suggest that the digital audio workstation controllers were used by hundreds of customers before you? Superior ratings indicate that many customers had better service.
Customer Reviews: Like ratings, provide you with accurate and reliable information about the product from genuine customers. Customer ratings are very important to all of us because they contain accurate and reliable information about the customer service we received from several hundred customers.
Seller Rank: This is very intriguing! Not only do you need a good digital audio workstation controllers, you also need a product with rising sales that is trendy. It accomplishes two goals. First, the expanding user base proves the quality of the product. Second, given that number, producers must be able to offer greater quality and after-sales support.
Value: You get what you pay for, they say, so consider the value. Cheap isn’t always good and expensive isn’t always bad. However, that does not imply that spending a lot of money on a product that is flashy but underwhelming is a good idea. Before adding them to the list, we make an effort to evaluate how much value you can get for your money from your digital audio workstation controllers.
Durability: Durability and reliability are closely related concepts. You will benefit from a strong and long-lasting digital audio workstation controllers for months and years to come.
Product availability: Products come and go, and new ones replace the old ones. Most likely, a few new features and required changes were made. What use is it to use a supposedly good product if the maker no longer supports it? We make an effort to highlight products that are current and offered by one or more trustworthy sellers, if not more.
Negative Reviews: Yes, we do take that into account as well! The goods with the majority of bad reviews are filtered out and disregarded when we choose the best-rated one on the market.
These are the standards by which we selected our digital audio workstation controllers. Do we end our process there? Hell no. The most crucial fact about us that you should be aware of is that we regularly update our website with current and pertinent information. We have one more layer of filtration since we place the greatest importance on reader satisfaction. Please let us know if any product included here is incorrect, irrelevant, subpar, or simply out of date. We always value your opinions, and we’ll work hard to make any necessary corrections to our list in response to them.
Why should you believe us?
There are now thousands of possibilities for these products on Amazon, but choosing the best one can be difficult and time-consuming. And what digital audio workstation controllers should you purchase in 2022?
This guide is the result of more than 10 years of experience in researching, testing and writing about many topics. Each member of our team is an authority in their area. We read every article we could find online and every consumer review on every retail website for seven hours. Additionally, we discovered a ton of websites that offered helpful resources, including buying tips and thorough information on digital audio workstation controllers.
