Getting Started with DAW Controllers

In this guide, you will learn what a DAW controller is and how to connect it to your computer. Once you’re done, follow out DAW Controller Setup Guides to configure a controller with your DAW. Follow each of the sections below to get started.

• What is a DAW controller?
• Connecting DAW controllers
• DAW controller setup guides

What is a DAW controller?

DAW controllers are MIDI devices that enable control over DAW’s such as Pro Tools or Ableton Live. Rather than use a mouse and keyboard to find and click each command, a DAW controller allows you to operate a DAW via dedicated control surface’s buttons, faders, encoders, or knobs. There are many different types of DAW controllers, like keyboards or mixers, but most of them have similar controls: channels, transport, navigation, and automation.

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Examples of different DAW controllers.

What is a MIDI CC message?

DAW controllers mainly use numbered MIDI CC messages (keyboards use MIDI notes). The CC# in MIDI CC stands for “continuous controller,” and its number determines which DAW parameter or function it controls. When you move a fader or turn an encoder, the hardware sends a MIDI message to the DAW and tells it what to do. For example, adjusting a fader on your DAW controller will simultaneously adjust the corresponding DAW fader in the same way. That’s how they work, but they also need to communicate with the same control surface protocol as your DAW. Learn more in our Essential MIDI Guide.

Common DAW controller features

DAW controller personalities

In order for DAW control to work, both the DAW software and hardware controller must be configured with each other. Check that the DAW controller is designed for the DAW or has a supported controller identity. MCU(Mackie Control Universal), HUI(Human User Interface), and EUCON(Extended User Control) are common, but many controllers have their own unique setup instructions. Learn more in our control surface buying guide.

• MCU (Mackie Control Universal): Pro Tools, Cubase, Studio One, Live, Digital Performer, Reason, FL Studio, Bitwig Studio
• HUI (Human User Interface): Pro Tools, Cubase, Studio One, Digital Performer
• EUCON (Extended User Control): Pro Tools, Cubase, Logic Pro X, Digital Performer, Nuendo
• Other/Native: Some controllers are unique and control certain DAW’s with little to no additional configuration. Others have their own software for specific control features. Check your controller’s user manual for specific compatibility information.

Connecting DAW controllers

Now that you know what DAW controllers are and how they work, next you need to learn how to set one up in your DAW. We’ve detailed everything below, but check your DAW controller’s user manual for specific instructions and more information about your device.

USB vs. MIDI connections

Most DAW controllers will connect to your computer via USB; either directly to the computer or through a powered hub. Some DAW controllers can communicate their MIDI CC messages via 5-pin MIDI ports. Depending on your configuration, you may be able to connect via the MIDI cables instead of the controller’s USB port.

Connecting a DAW controller via USB

Some DAW controllers are class compliant and use the built-in audio class drivers, but others have their own third-party driver software that must be installed before connecting. To set up a DAW controller with your computer, install the drivers and any other required software before connecting the controller. Check your controller’s user manual for more information about system requirements and driver software. If underpowered by their USB port or hub, bus powered DAW controllers may not operate correctly.

1. If required, download and install the controller’s software.
   • Required driver software
   • Controller editor software
   • Sequencer or virtual instrument software
2. Connect the MIDI controller via USB: either directly to the computer or a powered USB hub.
3. Configure the DAW with the MIDI controller.
   • Select the correct MIDI controller mode.
   • Select the correct DAW settings.

After connecting the DAW controller, continue to configure the DAW settings.

Connecting a DAW controller with MIDI cables

When connecting a DAW controller via MIDI cables, double check and route the correct MIDI Output port(s) to the correct Input port(s). Remember, the DAW controller will now use the ports of the MIDI device it’s connected to instead of its own USB personality.

1. If required, download and install the MIDI controller’s software.
   • Controller editor software
   • Sequencer or virtual instrument software
2. Connect the DAW controller to your MIDI interface/device via its MIDI ports.
3. Configure the DAW with the MIDI controller.
   • Select a compatible DAW controller mode.
   • Select the correct DAW MIDI port settings.

After connecting the DAW controller, continue to configure the DAW settings.

DAW controller setup guides

Click any of the setup guides below to configure the DAW settings for your controller surface. Before you do, check to see if your controller requires any driver or software installation to connect.

• How to set up a MIDI controller in Pro Tools
• How to Set Up a DAW Controller in Cubase
• How to Set Up a DAW Controller in Studio One
• How to Set Up a DAW Controller in Fender Studio Pro
• How to Set Up a DAW Controller in Live
• How to Set Up a DAW Controller in FL Studio
• How to Set Up a DAW Controller in Reason
• How to Set Up a DAW Controller in Digital Performer
• How to Set Up a DAW Controller in Bitwig Studio

Knowledge Base