Need A Midi Controller - Nektar Panorama P1?

I do not have any Spitfire products, but:
a) Nektar P1 primary a DAW controller. And it does not support Sonar. You can use it as a simple MIDI controller, but you loose the most of its functionality (and so the money you pay for it).
b) Spitfire products are Kontakt instruments, so the best way to control them in general are NI (NKS compatible) devices
c) general CC writing can be done with any simple MIDI controller, by proper type of hardware control. I mean depending from the target parameter, that can be Modulation Wheel, Knob, Fader, Pedal, After-Touch, etc. Note that there is a difference between simple "knobs" (270 degree, with current position indicator on it) and "endless encoders" (can be turned endless, sometimes with LED ring/display/bar indication for current position). General CC is much simpler to record with a simple knob: it has all possible (128) positions within 2/3 of a turn. Endless encoders normally have less "ticks" per complete turn, so operating is coarse or fine (depending what change in parameter is set for one tick), but not both at the same time. The advantage of endless encoders is they can be always "in sync" with corresponding parameters, so you do not have to sync manually (as with simple knobs). But that should be supported on software and hardware level. I am not sure how CC recording in Sonar is working with NKS encoders, may be someone with S keyboard can clarify that.

From functionality perspective, check that all controls are freely assignable and the number of them match your needs. That will prevent CC translating inconvenience.
 
While not a real "music instrument", it still make sense to test the device if you have some shop in the near. It can be disconnected, but turn/move controls, they can be very different in feel (f.e. "solid" but hard knobs on my KeyStation, tiny light on MPK Mini, something in between on VS20, etc-).
 
As a starting point you can check Launch Control XL (if you really want sliders).
If you want ModWheel/PitchBend, look at something with keys (can be just 25).
 
But please wait till someone write about how good NI keyboard can be used for MIDI writing. As I have mentioned before, if hardware encoders are good, allow MIDI writing for NKS based synths and the price is not above brick wall for you, that can be the device to get.

Thanks Vastman / azslow3, I will go check that out. My friend has a Kontrol S61. I will get him to bring it round to see how I get on with it.
 
cheers
Si

filtersweep
I have the NI S61. The control it offers over nks instruments is VERY convenient without the hassle of midi learn. I am not sure if all kontact instruments are necessarily controllable from S61. I didnt think that was the case but could well be wrong. I dont use the keyboard to control Sonar so I can't comment other than to say that I do not believe their is built-in, deep Sonar compatibility thougb I believe it can be used for some basic daw functions.
new Mk2 version of NI keyboards is comjng soon. Looks  impressive.
Brian

Yeah Ive tried the S61 and think its great for the Spitfire library. I just wished it had more slider controllers rather than knobs.
 
The search continues. Thanks for all your help. 
 
Si