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Novation Nocturn - Hardware Controller for Plug-Ins
Nocturn from Novation is a hardware plug-in controller featuring Automap Universal 2.0 software, that in turn provides automatic, instant and intelligent control of all automatable plug-ins within every major sequencer, including Pro Tools. Featuring a transparent control GUI, the software places a transparent control map across the computer screen, to be recalled or hidden at will.
The controller features eight touch-sensitive rotary encoders, each equipped with a bright eleven-LED ring, which can be ideal for a laptop DJ working in a dark club environment. These are complemented by eight, user-assignable illuminated buttons and a smooth, professional 45mm crossfader. Also included is a "speed dial", a touch-sensitive rotary encoder that instantly takes control of whatever the user's mouse is focused on.
When a plug-in is instantiated, how the parameters are assigned to each of Nocturn's controls is instantly visible. A click and control "learn" function is also available for quick re-assigning of controls, or for creating custom controller maps. Multiple page options mean the user can assign a potentially infinite number of parameters for each plug-in. Automap Universal also supports standard MIDI protocol, providing the same transparent display for quick and simple assigning of MIDI parameters.
Nocturn's tactile control layout, side mounted USB socket, and ultra-low profile, allow it to sit neatly in front of a QWERTY keyboard, or on a larger keyboard, while rugged rubber grips hold it steady. Combined, Automap Universal 2.0's transparent control GUI, and the controller's touch sensitive dials remove issues inherent in controlling multiple instruments and effects.
- Hardware control for plug-ins or virtual instruments
- Automap Universal 2.0 technology provides a transparent control map across the computer screen, allowing the user to see at a glance how every parameter is assigned
- "Speed Dial" is an instant access, touch-sensitive control for composers and performers alike, allowing them to take control of whatever the mouse is focused on
- Eight touch-sensitive rotary encoders with bright, eleven-LED rings
- Illuminated buttons and a smooth, professional 45mm crossfader, makes it ideal for laptop DJ'ing in a dark club environment
- Instant "learn" function allows for assigning a parameter to a control simply by clicking on the parameter and touching the chosen control
- GUI allows for quick entry of new control names, parameter ranges and step sizes
- A simple browse facility allows the user to view plug-ins by type (all instruments, all FX, etc.), then instantly switch to control any of them
- The transparent GUI also allows quick and simple editing of standard MIDI parameters
| Connection | USB MIDI |
| Faders | 1 x Crossfader |
| Transport Controls | No |
| Jog/Shuttle | No |
| Rotary Controls | 9 |
| Numeric Keypad | No |
| Display | Transparent control GUI |
| Multiple Units | If used alongside a dedicated Automap system for a DAW |
| Included Software | Automap Universal |
| Software Supported |
VST Audio Units TDM/RTAS (Mac only at present) |
| System Requirements |
Mac G4 1GHz minimum OS X 10.4.0 or greater (Leopard supported) 256MB RAM PC Pentium III 1GHz minimum Windows XP SP 2 and Vista 32/64 256MB RAM (Vista requires more) |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | 9.4 x 5.4 x 1.1" (239 x 137 x 28mm) |
| Weight | 1.1 lbs (0.5 kg) |
| Specialties | USB 1.1 and USB 2.0 compatible |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 10 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
88%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Compact (8)
- Attractive (6)
- Durable (4)
- Easy to set up (4)
Cons
Best Uses
- Pro audio / DJ / mixing (5)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Pro audio / DJ / mixing (6), Tech savvy (3)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (9)
Most Liked Positive Review
Simple and Quality DJ MIDI Controller
Novation marketed this as a "plug-in" controller to appeal to a broad user base. I was looking for a simple DJ Controller. I was debating between this and the simple Akai...Read complete review
Novation marketed this as a "plug-in" controller to appeal to a broad user base. I was looking for a simple DJ Controller. I was debating between this and the simple Akai pads and opted the Nocturn to control Traktor. I got booked for a last minute gig where I couldn't bring my Scratch Live turntable setup so I needed a compact and simple to use controller. The Nocturn requires AutoMap software. Think of it as a layer over your software of choice in order to map the knobs and buttons so that you can store settings. I used this in conjunction with Traktor and although Traktor let's you perform MIDI LEARN, the AutoMap software let's you hard set MIDI CC controls versus what Traktor is using. Deep customization is possible with multiple user pages to scroll via buttons or you can opt for simple pre-mapped settings. For example, hit the MIXER button on the Nocturn for the preset DJ mixer mapping or hit USER and create your own. At first you may feel like you don't have enough knobs to control things but the Nocturn has one knob that recognizes any control on your software that you place the mouse cursor on top of. All the preset buttons and knobs can be customized (enabled/disabled/or mapped) by creating a USER setup so you're not stuck hitting LEARN or FX on accident. In live use, the Nocturn performed well. Everything is laid out ergonomically for moderate sized hands. Knobs were fluid enough to perform smooth volume fades in and out of tracks. I found myself never using the fader and relying mostly on mapped Gain and Volume controls. Buttons take a little getting used to but triggering tracks and samples can be precise. I found that hitting the edge of the button was responsive versus hitting the button dead on. I recommended doing trial performance runs prior to using it live to make sure you get comfortable with the kit. There are some technical aspects to be aware of like using the most current drivers from Novation as well as using current versions of Traktor. If you use older drivers and older software (plug-ins included) be aware that some issues may arise so learn to work around them. I found that an older version of Traktor doesn't respond well to the master knob mouse control very well. After upgrading driver and Traktor the issue was resolved. Further tests will include DAW control, plug-in control, and using it to trigger cue points in Serato Scratch Live. Also, looking at getting a Midi Fighter to use alongside the Nocturn for Traktor use. Novation may be discontinuing this item so grab one while you can at bhphotovideo.com which ahs the best deal on this kit. I give it 4 stars because it requires customization and user supplied software.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Good Compact Controller
I recently purchased this item, and have not had the opportunity to familiarize myself with all of its capabilities. It seems well built, and is very compact, perfect for a space-limited setup.
I recently purchased this item, and have not had the opportunity to familiarize myself with all of its capabilities. It seems well built, and is very compact, perfect for a space-limited setup.
I am running Logic Studio 9, and the unit works well, but not perfectly, with this software. Following directions, I have still been unable to get it to work as advertised. It controls many functions, but does not, for example, bring up the Logic mixer as it should. I find it particularly tedious that for every new file I create, I have to go through the somewhat time intensive procedure of "connecting" the device as a monitor.
I also don't like that it doesn't have assigned transport buttons.
However, as I noted, I have yet to become familiar with its particular nuances; given the complexity of setting up midi parameters for controllers, this device via Automap, is relatively painless. Automap Standard is a bit clunky and always has to be running somewhere in the background, but generally, it seems to do the job of controlling midi functions. My only other controller was an Akai LPK, and it was terrible in comparison to this one.
Manuals are in PDF format and not that helpful. There is scant support (one video tutorial) for setup in Logic.
Reviewed by 10 customers
Sort by
Displaying reviews 1-10
Pros
- Attractive Design
- Compact
- Easy To Set Up
Cons
Best Uses
- DAW Controller
- DJ / Mixing
Comments about Novation Nocturn - Hardware Controller for Plug-Ins:
Novation marketed this as a "plug-in" controller to appeal to a broad user base. I was looking for a simple DJ Controller. I was debating between this and the simple Akai pads and opted the Nocturn to control Traktor. I got booked for a last minute gig where I couldn't bring my Scratch Live turntable setup so I needed a compact and simple to use controller. The Nocturn requires AutoMap software. Think of it as a layer over your software of choice in order to map the knobs and buttons so that you can store settings. I used this in conjunction with Traktor and although Traktor let's you perform MIDI LEARN, the AutoMap software let's you hard set MIDI CC controls versus what Traktor is using. Deep customization is possible with multiple user pages to scroll via buttons or you can opt for simple pre-mapped settings. For example, hit the MIXER button on the Nocturn for the preset DJ mixer mapping or hit USER and create your own. At first you may feel like you don't have enough knobs to control things but the Nocturn has one knob that recognizes any control on your software that you place the mouse cursor on top of. All the preset buttons and knobs can be customized (enabled/disabled/or mapped) by creating a USER setup so you're not stuck hitting LEARN or FX on accident. In live use, the Nocturn performed well. Everything is laid out ergonomically for moderate sized hands. Knobs were fluid enough to perform smooth volume fades in and out of tracks. I found myself never using the fader and relying mostly on mapped Gain and Volume controls. Buttons take a little getting used to but triggering tracks and samples can be precise. I found that hitting the edge of the button was responsive versus hitting the button dead on. I recommended doing trial performance runs prior to using it live to make sure you get comfortable with the kit. There are some technical aspects to be aware of like using the most current drivers from Novation as well as using current versions of Traktor. If you use older drivers and older software (plug-ins included) be aware that some issues may arise so learn to work around them. I found that an older version of Traktor doesn't respond well to the master knob mouse control very well. After upgrading driver and Traktor the issue was resolved. Further tests will include DAW control, plug-in control, and using it to trigger cue points in Serato Scratch Live. Also, looking at getting a Midi Fighter to use alongside the Nocturn for Traktor use. Novation may be discontinuing this item so grab one while you can at bhphotovideo.com which ahs the best deal on this kit. I give it 4 stars because it requires customization and user supplied software.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attractive Design
- Compact
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Novation Nocturn - Hardware Controller for Plug-Ins:
works ok. I expected better integration with Reason and/or ableton. Now as any midi controller you can make it work by manually mapping the knobs. Doen't work with Reason 6 SSL mixer.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Comments about Novation Nocturn - Hardware Controller for Plug-Ins:
Bought this to use as a hardware controller for the sliders in Lightroom 4. (Need to download the free "Paddy for Lightroom" software.) Plenty of potential for those who endeavor to pursue it.
Pros
- Compact
- Easy To Set Up
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Novation Nocturn - Hardware Controller for Plug-Ins:
Very simple and works - all I expected!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attractive Design
- Compact
- Durable
- Easy To Set Up
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Novation Nocturn - Hardware Controller for Plug-Ins:
Novation makes good stuff. This is a nice controller with a good amount of flexibility. The mix of endless rotary encoders and buttons are nice. As a maker of audio-visuals, I am trying to find a good use for the DJ slider... but with not much luck. Still nice to have I guess but more so for a DJ. The automap software is nice with a few annoying things that are minor. And another very nice feature is 4 buttons to instantly change the map and better yet, a bunch of "pages" per map that allow for new cc's for each control, making this a very flexible machine. For the low price, can't ask for anything more... and it's very solidly built and it delivers.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Durable
Cons
Best Uses
- DJ / Mixing
Comments about Novation Nocturn - Hardware Controller for Plug-Ins:
Price is good. Pretty sturdy for being plastic. The automap software works splendidly - can use knobs and stuff generically or custom map them. The 'speed dial' knob is a great concept and works well (can alter any parameter that the mouse cursor is hovered over). i absolutely LOVE how the buttons can be set to increment a range - SO useful. The only 'problem' is that the Automap software is essential - you can't simply 'plug and play' like most midi controllers, and it can be a little tricky to configure with your DAW.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact
Cons
Best Uses
- DJ / Mixing
Comments about Novation Nocturn - Hardware Controller for Plug-Ins:
Works as advertised out of the box. Well made hardware/software and ease of use makes this a great value.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attractive Design
- Compact
- Durable
Cons
- Difficult To Set Up
- Setup in Logic not great
Best Uses
Comments about Novation Nocturn - Hardware Controller for Plug-Ins:
I recently purchased this item, and have not had the opportunity to familiarize myself with all of its capabilities. It seems well built, and is very compact, perfect for a space-limited setup.
I am running Logic Studio 9, and the unit works well, but not perfectly, with this software. Following directions, I have still been unable to get it to work as advertised. It controls many functions, but does not, for example, bring up the Logic mixer as it should. I find it particularly tedious that for every new file I create, I have to go through the somewhat time intensive procedure of "connecting" the device as a monitor.
I also don't like that it doesn't have assigned transport buttons.
However, as I noted, I have yet to become familiar with its particular nuances; given the complexity of setting up midi parameters for controllers, this device via Automap, is relatively painless. Automap Standard is a bit clunky and always has to be running somewhere in the background, but generally, it seems to do the job of controlling midi functions. My only other controller was an Akai LPK, and it was terrible in comparison to this one.
Manuals are in PDF format and not that helpful. There is scant support (one video tutorial) for setup in Logic.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attractive Design
- Compact
- Durable
- Low Power Consumption
Cons
Best Uses
- DJ / Mixing
- Entertainment
- Production Quality
Comments about Novation Nocturn - Hardware Controller for Plug-Ins:
The program ability is endless, truly a piece of art.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Attractive Design
- Compact
- Easy To Set Up
Cons
Best Uses
- Basic Systems
- DJ / Mixing
- Entertainment
- Production Quality
Comments about Novation Nocturn - Hardware Controller for Plug-Ins:
The product is easy to use thanks to automap. The only problem I had was that some cc signals conflict with my launchpad but this can be easily fixed.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Displaying reviews 1-10
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