CME Pro Bitstream3X - Universal MIDI/USB Controller with 8 Faders, 35 Knobs, Joystick and Ribbon Controller for Mac and Windows

Comments about CME Pro Bitstream3X MIDI/USB Controller:

I use the 3X for sound design, music production and live video/VJ applications -- primarily with Logic, Bidule, Max, Live and Modul8. There are other good controllers on the market for sure, but there's nothing that has the combination of capability, compactness and sturdiness you get with the 3X.

The build quality is outstanding--it's not bulky at all, very low profile, but it feels bulletproof. The small footprint is important as I'm typically trying to make the most of my work space. Knobs, X/Y, ribbon and cross-fader are jet smooth. The 8 faders aren't quite as smooth with a bit of variance between them, that's really my only neg--but even at that, they aren't sticky and it's not distracting in use--just that if they were a tad smoother the thing would literally be perfect (not a deal breaker by any means).

Functionally, I don't think there's a controller available that compares with this. It's a beast. Everything on the panel is assignable (36 pots, 8 faders, 8 buttons, 1 endless rotary pot, 1 X/Y, 1 crossfader and a ribbon) and you've got 20 snapshots you can quickly page between per profile--I've got everything I need mapped in 3. You can literally map anything to anything.

All the assignments can be made through a nice GUI-based app downloadable from WaveIdea -- you can knock out anything you need and upload it to the 3X very easily, no headaches.

IMHO I prefer it to Livid Instruments Code "and I appreciate not being blinded by super-bright LEDs when performing.

The LFO, built in ARP and SYNC24 aren't functions I use, but it's great to have options if you need them.

While it comes with a power brick, it functions perfectly under bus power. That wasn't obvious to me when I initially ordered it but it's a huge plus.

I haven't had any problems like the other reviewer with the bad fader, but if I did I'd send it in and get it repaired(?)--total shame to let something like that ruin the potential of such great kit.

If mine got busted I'd by another one asap. It's best in class as far as I'm concerned. The fact that technical juggernauts like Autechre and Speedy J use this live should speak volumes.

I currently own 1 unit and am debating buying a second as they seem to be getting hard to find.

Comments about CME Pro Bitstream3X MIDI/USB Controller:

Cheap, cheap, cheap in a metal box. Don't buy this thing, i did and i regret it every time, for example, one of the faders i'm controlling won't stay put in the DAW even though it's all the way down on the controller. It's finest day will be when it breaks for good and i can smash it with a hammer, i'm not exaggerating. I am sad that i bought this piece of, er, jenky gear.