How to control Midi Automation (CC#11, CC#5 etc...) with Hardware Controller

Hi everyone
I would like to purchase a simple hardware controller to be able to control the writing of Midi Track Automation in real time, however, all I seem to be able to find on the forums (here and elsewhere) are references to controlling Volume, Pan and other VSTs......for some reason midi track automation (CC#s) seems to be something I can't find!
Anyone here successfully doing this and could kindly advise please? I'd love to here what control surface(s) you use.
 
Kind regards
Bob  
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Sonar Platinum
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