Control surfaces that can do MIDI and automation?

[abt]

I want a control surface that is able to write Pro Tools automation and be able to switch to MIDI CC automation.

I know this has been talked about many times over the years, bit I still can't find a definitive answer. I think it's because a lot of the discussions I've seen people jump in and say various things without being clear on what DAW they are using.

I like the AVID Artist Mix, PreSonus FaderPort 8, and the iCon Platform M. Can any of these do what I'm asking?

I believe the Platform M can, but it can only load one imap layout at a time so to switch from DAW automation to MIDI automation you would have to remap the controller everytime.

[JFreak]

Have you tried keyboards that have faders and buttons, such as Novation Launchkey?

[abt]

@JFreak Yes, I love my Arturia KeyStation but it's only good for MIDI, almost unusable as a DAW controller.

[Righty27]

Maybe Behringer X-Touch - however, there may be functional differences between the full-size and compact models that favour either DAW or MIDI controller applications, so probably worth a bit more investigation if interested ... and obviously neither optimised for Pro Tools when compared with e.g. Artist Mix, S3, etc.

[ramonetl]

Did you check the Pro Tools dock? One of the features below sounds like what you are asking for:

Dedicated automation controls, 16 soft keys, and 2 programmable touch strips

[abt]

The Berhinger certainly does have midi capability. Doesn’t get very good reviews for using it with Pro Tools.

I don’t think the Pro Tools Dock would do what I want.

[clausiii]

the good old Digidesign Command|8 can do this. Great Pro Tools mode and MIDI CC mode. With a push of a button you can toggle between them.

[abt]

@clausiii I know right, another piece or kit AVID "improved" for us. In all seriousness, looking around it does surprise me just how many people are asking for this and no manufacturer seems to have implemented it well.

[Righty27]

Notwithstanding different product’s MIDI implementations, at least whilst Avid keeps the old Euphonix protocol as proprietary, it’s unlikely you’ll find something that does both well (i.e. also optimised for Pro Tools).

[abt]

@Righty27 I agree. It would be nice though...