The Nocturn 25 from Novation is an intelligent plug-in/sequencer controller, sporting a 25 velocity-sensitive key-bed manufactured by Fatar. In addition to the keys, the controller has 8 drum pads and a total of 33 assignable controls, which allow you to get hands-on control of your plug-in instruments, effects and sequencer.
The included Automap control software solves the hassle of assigning parameters to various controls. To assign a control, simply click on the parameter, touch a knob or button, and it is assigned. The software also enables you to keep track of what is assigned to what by displaying it on your computer monitor. There is no longer any need to sift through long lists of MIDI continuous controller numbers.
The Automap software graphically displays Nocturn's control surface, while the controllers themselves also provide status information via the LED rings around the 8 encoders. Additionally, Automap can integrate with Logic, ProTools, Digital Performer and any other HUI compatible sequencers, using the HUI control protocol.
Automap will automatically assign knobs and buttons to parameters on a huge number of the most popular plug-ins. The Nocturn keyboard will also automatically assign controllers to mixer and transport functions in all major DAW/sequencers. Novation is constantly building more maps which are available on the community pages of the company's website.
Ableton
Transport Control: Yes
Mixer Control: Yes, using Ableton's "learn" mode
Further Control: More features can be controlled with Nocturn via Ableton's "learn" mode
Pro Tools
Transport Control: Yes
Mixer Control: Yes
Further Control: All Pro Tools RTAS and TDM plug-ins can be instantly controlled with Automap
Record/Reason
Transport Control: Yes
Mixer Control: Yes
Further Control: All native instruments and effects can be instantly controlled with Automap
Logic
Transport Control: Yes
Mixer Control: Yes
Further Control: All native instruments and effects can be instantly controlled with Automap
Cubase
Transport Control: Yes
Mixer Control: Yes
Sonar
Transport Control: Yes
Mixer Control: Yes
Reaper
Transport Control: Yes
Mixer Control: Yes
DP
Transport Control: Yes
Mixer Control: Yes
Traction
Transport Control: Yes
Mixer Control: Yes
| Keyboard | 25 velocity sensitive |
| Presets | No |
| User Memory | No |
| Controllers |
1 x Pitch Bend Wheel 1 x Modulation Wheel 8 x Soft Feel Trigger Pads 1 x Touch Sensitive Speed Dial 8 x Rotary Controls (infinitely variable) 14 Buttons with Integrated LEDs (6 are lockable transport controls) |
| Output | USB (shared with output) |
| Inputs |
USB (shared with input)1 x 1/4" TS Sustain Pedal (pedal not included) 1 x 1/4" TRS Expression Pedal (pedal not included) |
| Display | No |
| Power Requirements | Powered via USB |
| Dimensions | 18.6 x 10.2 x 2.7" (472 x 260 x 68mm) |
| Weight | 5.3 lbs (2.4kg) |
| System Compatibility |
Mac OS X Windows XP/Vista Standalone mode |
| Specialties | Auto-mapping of plug-in and sequencer parameters |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
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Comments about Novation Nocturn 25 - USB/MIDI Plug-In/Sequencer Controller:
I use the keyboard to make beats and i will say its perfect if you are on the go!
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Comments about Novation Nocturn 25 - USB/MIDI Plug-In/Sequencer Controller:
The nocturn 25 is a great keyboard. Love the nobs, pads and keys. The only complain i have is that ovation did not add any additional information to help people that are new to the midi controller word like me. I am still having trouble adapting my nocturn to my daw (FL Studio).
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Comments about Novation Nocturn 25 - USB/MIDI Plug-In/Sequencer Controller:
Simple setup.
Pros
Cons
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Comments about Novation Nocturn 25 - USB/MIDI Plug-In/Sequencer Controller:
There are plenty of controllers that move smoothly, the keys feel semi-weighted and comfortable. If I were to improve on this keyboard, I would beef up the knobs which extend pretty far from the cover and thus feel fragile, as in easy to damage if you are not careful in transporting the keyboard. Otherwise I love the auto mapping feature and feel it is an excellent deal for this kind of keyboard. If you want to really play, though, you will want more than 25 keys, but that should be fairly obvious to the buyer. I use mine primarily for simple riffs and a lot of step inputting.
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