Hi,

I'm looking for a Sonar X2 control surface that doesn't take up much space  (I already have an audio interface). If I had the space, I would probably go with the Mackie MCU, but I'm, looking for something with dimensions similar to theRoland  VS-20  (11.8 x 5.68), or the Presonus faderport (7" X 5.25"). 
Of those two, which would you recommend?
I realize that the VS-20 is more than a control surface, but I'm willing to shell out the dough if it fits the bill.
Is there something in that size-range that I have overlooked.
Also, for users of the Faderport, how much of a drawback is it to have only one fader? What's the preferred method of switching the channel focus...do you use the mouse or the buttons on the Faderport?

Thanks!
Jonathan

Yes, I would interested as well to see what everybody comes up with.

This is a small foot print and should fit the bill.
 Here

I've been using the VS-20 for over a month, now, and am loving it. Originally, bought it as an audio interface and the guitar sounds (guitar player, here). Now, I don't want to miss it, as a controller. It's been integrated flawlessly in my Sonar setup. Another nice thing is the portability. I have a dedictated DAW - with X2a - in my "studio" (basement of employer). At home, I installed Guitar Tracks, that came with the VS-20, on my wife's netbook. It works like a charm, when inspiration hits ;) Oh yeah, and when I just wanna jam with my favorite songs, I use it as a stand alone. A dream machine for guitar players!

I'm not sure if it's dimensions are within your requirements but the BCF is significantly smaller than an MCU an 90% as good (In Mackie mode). There is no better value bit of kit on the market IMHO. Size from the spec sheet 13 x 11 4/5(?) inches.

More info HERE

The VS 100 is small and a good fit (at least for a fader) w/ SONAR.  I'm not sure how it works w/ X1 & 2.

@

It depends on how much control you're looking for too. You've already gotten some good suggestions, but if you don't need the fader and want something even smaller, the Contour Design ShuttlePRO works nicely with plenty of programmable buttons along with a jog wheel.

Scott

--
Scott R. Garrigus - http://garrigus.com - SONAR X2 Power! - http://garrigus.com/?SonarX2Power
* Author of the Cakewalk Sonar and Sony Sound Forge Power book series: http://garrigus.com/?PowerBooks
* Author of the Cakewalk Sonar ProAudioTutor video tutorial series: http://garrigus.com/?ProAudioTutor
* Publisher of the DigiFreq free music technology newsletter: http://digifreq.com/?DigiFreq
* Publisher of the NewTechReview free consumer technology newsletter: http://newtechreview.com/?NewTechReview

FastBikerBoy


I'm not sure if it's dimensions are within your requirements but the BCF is significantly smaller than an MCU an 90% as good (In Mackie mode). There is no better value bit of kit on the market IMHO. Size from the spec sheet 13 x 11 4/5(?) inches.

More info HERE

I looked at that one.  It doesn't seem to have the standard transport buttons (play, record, etc.) on it for some reason.
Do you use something else for those functions?


Thanks,
Jonathan

FullBug


I've been using the VS-20 for over a month, now, and am loving it. Originally, bought it as an audio interface and the guitar sounds (guitar player, here). Now, I don't want to miss it, as a controller. It's been integrated flawlessly in my Sonar setup. Another nice thing is the portability. I have a dedictated DAW - with X2a - in my "studio" (basement of employer). At home, I installed Guitar Tracks, that came with the VS-20, on my wife's netbook. It works like a charm, when inspiration hits ;) Oh yeah, and when I just wanna jam with my favorite songs, I use it as a stand alone. A dream machine for guitar players!

Thanks for the recommendation.
Looking at the picture of the CS-20, I notice that there are not dedicated mute/solo/arm buttons, nor is there a pan knob.
How difficult is it to access these functions.


Also, how easy is it to control plugins from this device.
For example, is it easy to select a patch in Dimension Pro or set reverb settings?


Thanks,
Jonathan

I post this about every time I log on so sorry if you've read this before, but the korg nanokontrol is cheap and it works great. 8 faders pan/mute/arm/record