brooooo! brilliant walkthrough for the new cubase support! i like how you go thru the features in a very intuitive way and relate them to how to make the most of them.
great review - thank you. I bought one today because of this review so hopefully the manufacturer will see this and give you a well deserved kick back...good job!
Excellent review!! Thanks for running with C14. I have the Panorama P1, which has multiple faders but it's quite hard to use for fading duties, mainly because with large sessions it is often not clear which channels you control. a single motorized fader makes a ton more sense! 6:30 when you clicked Attack / release on the UAD, the knobs didn't seem to turn when you moved the fader... the value on the display didn't change either. Might be some UAD specific glitch? 6:40 my master is always at unity (unless I do a global fadeout, which is very rare) reassigning SHIFT+Select to the Control room would be awesome though.
Yeah it’s kinda wild they didn’t announce anything. Only if you signed up to the email wait list. I got an email a few days ago (about 5 days after they actually released it).
Hi, good review... thanks.! Would have valued seeing it in use with the Cubase mixer Channel Strip and all its other FX available there, (or even in the Channel Settings window, using the four band EQ, the High/Lowpass filters, etc..). Also, at 0:19 the Avid Artist Control unit you display in the overlay, is no longer available (hasn't been since 2021.?). However, 'second-hand' price range for these, I've seen for between £250 - £350 on ebay...? Which could be a realistic option for some. The 'lag' with response time in switching channels and accessing its properties - could get annoying before too long I reckon.
Precisely. But now that the CS12 is Central in front of your keyboard, rather than Faders... What do Keyboard Maestro, Alfred, Karabiner, Streamdeck, Companion... All turn into?!
By far the best review. Testing all the functions in real situations. I'm just wondering if there is a button to activate/deactivate each of the effects sends. Thanks
Hi. Great video. I just received my CS12, thanks to you. I have a problem with Nektarine software. I've created patch list from Serum. Everything working fine, just I have no idea how to switch patches from CS12. I see name of the patch, I can tweak parameters but it not allow me to flip thru the browser. If you could help I will be much appreciated. Thank you
Great video!!! I just got mine and can't figure out how to assign the assignable buttons for Talkback on/off and another for DIM main mix. I configured the commands but it doens't work. Do you know if those are possible to configure within the CS12 Script?
Might pair this with my P4 keyboard cockpit and replace my cc121. Really wish Steinberg would partner with Nektar release this and modular sidecar multifader and jog wheel in a fully supported cubendo 14 environment in 2025.
If anyone knows, Video Creator or anyone, at 23:29, he hits a hotkey and then types in 1176 and it pops up with a big window in the middle of the screen sort of like Spotlight search. Does anyone know what that is? Is it some kind of add on? He hit a hotkey in it popped up basically a spotlight search where he was able to search and pull up his plug in which seemed really handy.
This is from my “Ultimate Workflow” video: ua-cam.com/video/NT4sB6bHVX8/v-deo.html It has nothing to do with the CS12 and works on Cubase and Ableton. However, I would wait a little before you set it up because I’m planning to make an updated video that makes the strip process A LOT easier.
It’s bright enough. It’s clear enough to see what you need to see. They could’ve done better for sure (in terms of resolution or size) but I don’t find it lacking in any way. Especially considering the price of this unit.
Great walkthrough 👍👍👍. Subscribed. Question. I’m trying to cut back use of 3rd party plugins (hate the constant updating for one thing…). Have you seen if and how the CS12 handles other stuff than the eq in the Cubase channel strip? Pre section, comps, transient design etc?
I didn’t dive deep into that part of the manual but I know you can control the built in Cubase channel strip through the CS12. Hope this helps. Thanks for the sub! 🙏🏻
They have detailed that here, now. Hit Channel and the plugin slot buttons lead to the different modules, color coded. Alas, you can't activate or select processor. nektartech.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/CS12-Cubase-support.jpg
Hey Brian, I have the CS12 and all functions work as described. With one exception: the standard function of the fader. It does not respond to the selected channel (setting volume). (Cubase 14.0.10 - Daw Integration 1.1.0, latest firmware) Any ideas? Do you still have the protocol that you used in the video?
Thanks for the video, I was waiting for Nektar to release the Cubase integration since they launched the CS 12 more than a year ago and then I discovered that day they dropped it thanks to your video! Did you try it with Instruments too? It seems from their documentation that to control instruments you need to host them inside the nektarine plug-in. Did you try this? Also did you try to create custom mappings for FX plug-in with the Nektarine app? It seems that in these way, you can create custom pages and sub pages and then the maps are accessible without hosting the plug-in inside nekatarine, that is needed only for instruments
Thanks! The plugin list is from my “Ultimate Workflow” video: ua-cam.com/video/NT4sB6bHVX8/v-deo.html However, I would wait a little before you set it up because I’m planning to make an updated video that makes the setup process A LOT easier. Planning to shoot it sometime next week.
Great video !!!!, I will defenitely get one! , Can you make a video and show how you integrated and use Stream Deck in Cubase?, looks like a good add on.
Great review ! Thanks a lot :) One question regarding VST Instruments : Do the 12 rotary encoders on the right side can control instruments ? Let's say Komplete Kontrol macros or Kontakt ? Thanks again.
Kinda. You can assign quick controls to you VST instruments (I think up to 8 parameters) and control them with 8 of the 12 faders in the right. Thanks for the comment 🙌🏻
@@BrianRivlin Sounds great ! Was about to buy recently a Native Instruments S40 MK3 to control the parameters of Komplete Kontrol and Kontakt :) Thanks a lot Brian.
Hi Great review ! My local store is advertising this unit as a 'Nektar Panorama CS12 Channel Strip Controller for Logic Pro DAW'. Is the same hardware now compatible with cubase or are there different units please? Also how do you install it in to cubase? Many thanks!
Yes this is the same unit. You make an account on the Nektar website and register your unit to your account and you will have installers for Cubase. Also, their manual is very detailed and can help you in every step of the way.
This looks very promising. I currently have an Icon Nano with a Midi Remote script I made. It works pretty well but loses connection once in a while and the knobs are terrible. Because I am using a custom script, some buttons do not illuminate. I also have a Midi Fighter and that thing is AMAZING! It has the best feeling knobs I have come across. It can control 32 parameters x4 pages (128). Tons of control. I think a small missed opportunity on the CS12 is not having all the knobs be a push button as well, similar to my MF. It is nice to turn on the channel gain or a send with a push and then start twisting to adjust the level. Quick and intuitive. Currently, I have my most used Cubase controls on page 1 and the other three mapped to third-party channel strips. In Midi Remote, you can have multiple mapping pages per controller so my MF can have endless control. I think I will replace my Icon Nano with the CS12. Thanks for the thoughtful and thorough review!
That’s some amazing insight! I was eying the Midi Fighter. It just seems a little too tall compared to other controllers. And yes, the first thing I tried was to push the knobs on the CS12. Seems like a basic thing on a controller these days. A shame they’re not push knobs, but not the end of the world in my opinion. Cheers!
@@BrianRivlin I agree, not the end of the world but my brain is wired towards efficiency and IMO, common sense. The knobs also being buttons add a lot of utility. The MF taught me this. It's also very customizable: LED colors and each knob can be programmed to be a knob and button, a knob, click, then another knob, or a knob and another momentary knob while it is held down. The LEDs colors can change color when the secondary function (knob press) is engaged so you have a visual of what function you are currently using. The MF seems tall because it's not angled, but the high point of the angle of my Icon Nano is the same height. If they made the same MF with a dedicated 'channel' control (i.e. fader, pan knob, and MAYBE separated buttons for solo, mute, etc), It would be the best DAW controller on the market. It wouldn't look as fancy as some others, but the functionality, build quality, and user experience would be unmatched, IMO. Also, I had the same reaction as you to the 'Tempo' knob. I was like WTH. Haha! Glad to see it can used for clip gain control. That is AWESOME!
Possibly if that rotary knob can transmit midi information (or any information that can be translated to midi). Then using the midi remote you could program it to do that.
Thanks for your support! it’s a whole new integration system using the midi remote api and our controlCore technology. the plugin control aspect is an evolution of the work we did for P6 and as you’d expect works directly through Cubase. There are many limitations of the original p-series integration removed with this new approach and direct instrument support and access is coming in the near future.
@@TimChandler-z3x Very nice. Any new "P4/P6 style" keyboards on the horizon with this new CS12 architecture coming? I really like having the keys and the controller combined like it is on the P4/P6.
Nektar owes you a free CS12 controller after such a comprehensive review!! Just one question - Was this compatible out of the box? or did u have to load a script separately? Asking cause Nektar markets the CS12 only as a Logic controller.
Appreciate it! Yes, this was compatible out of the box. I don’t know why Nektar haven’t updated the webpage for the CS12. But all you do is register your serial number with your Nektar account and you get installers for Logic and Cubase and it just works.
As far as I can tell, no. You kinda need Nektarine in the background (I guess to translate all the midi stuff to the controller). But if that’s the trade off, I’m good with that. Also, it’s not actually running along side it. It’s just a process in the background. So I don’t notice it at all.
According to the manual you only need Nektarine to setup the mapping for a plugin. After that you can control it without a wrapper in Cubase. But I might be reading it wrong.
Agree. Personally I never use a jog wheel and if a controller has one I change it to a big zoom knob. But I do agree that many users prefer having a jog/shuttle wheel.
An excellent overview, fair, detailed and enthusiastic. Thanks for putting this together!
Point about controlling send levels using the fader noted.
brooooo! brilliant walkthrough for the new cubase support! i like how you go thru the features in a very intuitive way and relate them to how to make the most of them.
Thanks bud!
Appreciate it. Glad you enjoyed the video 🙌🏻
great review - thank you. I bought one today because of this review so hopefully the manufacturer will see this and give you a well deserved kick back...good job!
Excellent review!! Thanks for running with C14.
I have the Panorama P1, which has multiple faders but it's quite hard to use for fading duties, mainly because with large sessions it is often not clear which channels you control. a single motorized fader makes a ton more sense!
6:30 when you clicked Attack / release on the UAD, the knobs didn't seem to turn when you moved the fader... the value on the display didn't change either. Might be some UAD specific glitch?
6:40 my master is always at unity (unless I do a global fadeout, which is very rare) reassigning SHIFT+Select to the Control room would be awesome though.
Yes, and I have forgotten to say: many thanks for your very detailed review.
Awesome, just ordered mine thanks to you!
Super comprehensive review! Thank you! 🙏
Wow! Not even the official Nektar medias have announced it but you did! Thank you!
Yeah it’s kinda wild they didn’t announce anything. Only if you signed up to the email wait list.
I got an email a few days ago (about 5 days after they actually released it).
Great video, focusing on real life use.
Thanks for the great review. Considering as supplement for my console1s :)
Wow! That’s huge.
Yeah the Nektar team really did a good job with this controller.
Very compelling for Cubase users!
good overview, thanks
Good job, well done!
Looks interesting, but like me, people would probably have liked to see what the EQ control looks like in the channel strip, since you always use it
Hi, good review... thanks.!
Would have valued seeing it in use with the Cubase mixer Channel Strip and all its other FX available there, (or even in the Channel Settings window, using the four band EQ, the High/Lowpass filters, etc..). Also, at 0:19 the Avid Artist Control unit you display in the overlay, is no longer available (hasn't been since 2021.?).
However, 'second-hand' price range for these, I've seen for between £250 - £350 on ebay...? Which could be a realistic option for some.
The 'lag' with response time in switching channels and accessing its properties - could get annoying before too long I reckon.
I hope you do a follow up with your Entire integrated workflow, with this And your macros etc.
Thank You!
Will definitely keep this in mind.
My workflow is always evolving. Who knows what I can come up with now that I have this controller.
🙌🏻
Precisely.
But now that the CS12 is Central in front of your keyboard, rather than Faders...
What do Keyboard Maestro, Alfred, Karabiner, Streamdeck, Companion...
All turn into?!
They all very much have a role in the workflow.
Some more than others of course. Still getting used to the CS12. 😅
By far the best review. Testing all the functions in real situations.
I'm just wondering if there is a button to activate/deactivate each of the effects sends. Thanks
Hold shift and turn send fx dials to enable/disable.
@@TimChandler-z3x Thank you
Nice video man thanks !
Glad you liked it!
🙏🏻
Hi. Great video. I just received my CS12, thanks to you. I have a problem with Nektarine software. I've created patch list from Serum. Everything working fine, just I have no idea how to switch patches from CS12. I see name of the patch, I can tweak parameters but it not allow me to flip thru the browser. If you could help I will be much appreciated. Thank you
Thankyou for heads up
No problem 🙏🏻😊
You are the only one who made nektar on cubase video it is great
Great video!!! I just got mine and can't figure out how to assign the assignable buttons for Talkback on/off and another for DIM main mix. I configured the commands but it doens't work. Do you know if those are possible to configure within the CS12 Script?
Are you still using it or did you return it to Nektar?
Might pair this with my P4 keyboard cockpit and replace my cc121. Really wish Steinberg would partner with Nektar release this and modular sidecar multifader and jog wheel in a fully supported cubendo 14 environment in 2025.
If anyone knows, Video Creator or anyone, at 23:29, he hits a hotkey and then types in 1176 and it pops up with a big window in the middle of the screen sort of like Spotlight search. Does anyone know what that is? Is it some kind of add on? He hit a hotkey in it popped up basically a spotlight search where he was able to search and pull up his plug in which seemed really handy.
This is from my “Ultimate Workflow” video: ua-cam.com/video/NT4sB6bHVX8/v-deo.html
It has nothing to do with the CS12 and works on Cubase and Ableton.
However, I would wait a little before you set it up because I’m planning to make an updated video that makes the strip process A LOT easier.
Excellent video, thanks! Someone mentioned that the screen isn't very good - do you have an opinion on it? Is it bright enough?
It’s bright enough. It’s clear enough to see what you need to see.
They could’ve done better for sure (in terms of resolution or size) but I don’t find it lacking in any way.
Especially considering the price of this unit.
@ awesome, thanks Brian :)
Great walkthrough 👍👍👍. Subscribed.
Question.
I’m trying to cut back use of 3rd party plugins (hate the constant updating for one thing…). Have you seen if and how the CS12 handles other stuff than the eq in the Cubase channel strip? Pre section, comps, transient design etc?
I didn’t dive deep into that part of the manual but I know you can control the built in Cubase channel strip through the CS12.
Hope this helps.
Thanks for the sub! 🙏🏻
They have detailed that here, now. Hit Channel and the plugin slot buttons lead to the different modules, color coded. Alas, you can't activate or select processor. nektartech.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/CS12-Cubase-support.jpg
It Would Be Really Cool If They Made a Extension Of Just Motorized Faders That You Could daisy Chain To Add To It
That’s a brilliant idea!
Like an 8 fader unit.
I wonder how difficult this will be to script in the Cubase MIDI Remote.
Hey Brian, I have the CS12 and all functions work as described. With one exception: the standard function of the fader. It does not respond to the selected channel (setting volume). (Cubase 14.0.10 - Daw Integration 1.1.0, latest firmware) Any ideas? Do you still have the protocol that you used in the video?
I'm experiencing a similar issue: the fader does not allow me to write any volume automation in Cubase
Thanks for the video, I was waiting for Nektar to release the Cubase integration since they launched the CS 12 more than a year ago and then I discovered that day they dropped it thanks to your video! Did you try it with Instruments too? It seems from their documentation that to control instruments you need to host them inside the nektarine plug-in. Did you try this? Also did you try to create custom mappings for FX plug-in with the Nektarine app? It seems that in these way, you can create custom pages and sub pages and then the maps are accessible without hosting the plug-in inside nekatarine, that is needed only for instruments
I had a lot of controllers in the past and my conclusion is…at the end the fastest way to work in Cubase is the mouse and the big Stream Deck
very interesting thanks. I wa considering Icon V1M. BTW: what techno do you use around 23'40'' to open your plugin list and select one ?
Thanks!
The plugin list is from my “Ultimate Workflow” video: ua-cam.com/video/NT4sB6bHVX8/v-deo.html
However, I would wait a little before you set it up because I’m planning to make an updated video that makes the setup process A LOT easier.
Planning to shoot it sometime next week.
@@BrianRivlin ok thanks
Great video !!!!, I will defenitely get one! , Can you make a video and show how you integrated and use Stream Deck in Cubase?, looks like a good add on.
Absolutely! It’s still new for me so I’m working it into my setup. As soon as I have something to share I’ll definitely make a video.
🙌🏻
Many thanks for the video! Does this wonderful controller work under Windows or is it Mac only?
Windows as well
awesome controller!
Great review ! Thanks a lot :)
One question regarding VST Instruments : Do the 12 rotary encoders on the right side can control instruments ? Let's say Komplete Kontrol macros or Kontakt ?
Thanks again.
Kinda. You can assign quick controls to you VST instruments (I think up to 8 parameters) and control them with 8 of the 12 faders in the right.
Thanks for the comment 🙌🏻
@@BrianRivlin Sounds great ! Was about to buy recently a Native Instruments S40 MK3 to control the parameters of Komplete Kontrol and Kontakt :)
Thanks a lot Brian.
Hi
Great review !
My local store is advertising this unit as a 'Nektar Panorama CS12 Channel Strip Controller for Logic Pro DAW'. Is the same hardware now compatible with cubase or are there different units please? Also how do you install it in to cubase? Many thanks!
Yes this is the same unit.
You make an account on the Nektar website and register your unit to your account and you will have installers for Cubase.
Also, their manual is very detailed and can help you in every step of the way.
This looks very promising. I currently have an Icon Nano with a Midi Remote script I made. It works pretty well but loses connection once in a while and the knobs are terrible. Because I am using a custom script, some buttons do not illuminate. I also have a Midi Fighter and that thing is AMAZING! It has the best feeling knobs I have come across. It can control 32 parameters x4 pages (128). Tons of control. I think a small missed opportunity on the CS12 is not having all the knobs be a push button as well, similar to my MF. It is nice to turn on the channel gain or a send with a push and then start twisting to adjust the level. Quick and intuitive. Currently, I have my most used Cubase controls on page 1 and the other three mapped to third-party channel strips. In Midi Remote, you can have multiple mapping pages per controller so my MF can have endless control. I think I will replace my Icon Nano with the CS12. Thanks for the thoughtful and thorough review!
That’s some amazing insight!
I was eying the Midi Fighter. It just seems a little too tall compared to other controllers.
And yes, the first thing I tried was to push the knobs on the CS12. Seems like a basic thing on a controller these days. A shame they’re not push knobs, but not the end of the world in my opinion.
Cheers!
@@BrianRivlin I agree, not the end of the world but my brain is wired towards efficiency and IMO, common sense. The knobs also being buttons add a lot of utility. The MF taught me this. It's also very customizable: LED colors and each knob can be programmed to be a knob and button, a knob, click, then another knob, or a knob and another momentary knob while it is held down. The LEDs colors can change color when the secondary function (knob press) is engaged so you have a visual of what function you are currently using.
The MF seems tall because it's not angled, but the high point of the angle of my Icon Nano is the same height. If they made the same MF with a dedicated 'channel' control (i.e. fader, pan knob, and MAYBE separated buttons for solo, mute, etc), It would be the best DAW controller on the market. It wouldn't look as fancy as some others, but the functionality, build quality, and user experience would be unmatched, IMO.
Also, I had the same reaction as you to the 'Tempo' knob. I was like WTH. Haha! Glad to see it can used for clip gain control. That is AWESOME!
That clip gain and zoom function with the rotary knob is that also possible without this controller? Just with a rotaryknob om my keyboard?
Possibly if that rotary knob can transmit midi information (or any information that can be translated to midi). Then using the midi remote you could program it to do that.
@@BrianRivlin ok, but what is the function I have to map my controller to?
This looks amazing. I use Cubase and Ableton live. Are there scripts for other DAWs as well?
Originally they released it as a Logic controller and I think now they’re working on a Reaper integration.
Fingers crossed for Ableton eventually 🤞🏻
@@BrianRivlinthis video has convinced me to pick it up regardless. Nice video.
How's the build quality? I've read a lot of negative reviews about it
cool ! ❤
So i wonder how this compares to their Flagship Panorama P6 which is what i have been using since it came out many years ago. I love mine.
Got a a Panorama P6 too, it even has a reaper Script wich is useable. It feels cheap but their products are reliable. Keybed is ok.
Thanks for your support! it’s a whole new integration system using the midi remote api and our controlCore technology. the plugin control aspect is an evolution of the work we did for P6 and as you’d expect works directly through Cubase. There are many limitations of the original p-series integration removed with this new approach and direct instrument support and access is coming in the near future.
@@TimChandler-z3x Very nice. Any new "P4/P6 style" keyboards on the horizon with this new CS12 architecture coming? I really like having the keys and the controller combined like it is on the P4/P6.
Will this work with Cubase 12?
Minimum supported version is v13.0.51
Nektar owes you a free CS12 controller after such a comprehensive review!! Just one question - Was this compatible out of the box? or did u have to load a script separately? Asking cause Nektar markets the CS12 only as a Logic controller.
Appreciate it!
Yes, this was compatible out of the box.
I don’t know why Nektar haven’t updated the webpage for the CS12.
But all you do is register your serial number with your Nektar account and you get installers for Logic and Cubase and it just works.
will it work for Nuendo
Yes.
Now this controller make more sense for me, ‘cause I wish to have Cubase as my 3rd go to DAW 👍🏻
Interesting! What are your two other DAWs?
But yeah this controller is a no brainer. Especially if you also use Logic.
@ It’s Logic Pro & Reaper
Well you’re in luck! I saw in one of their comments they said Reaper support is not too far away.
@@BrianRivlinGreat! So that’s what I need! 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
If I'm reading it right, no two-way control of VST instruments without Nektarine wrapper as it was the case with P-series keyboards?
As far as I can tell, no. You kinda need Nektarine in the background (I guess to translate all the midi stuff to the controller).
But if that’s the trade off, I’m good with that.
Also, it’s not actually running along side it. It’s just a process in the background. So I don’t notice it at all.
According to the manual you only need Nektarine to setup the mapping for a plugin. After that you can control it without a wrapper in Cubase. But I might be reading it wrong.
You don’t need Nektarine. It’s there for really advanced mapping.
The product is a Nektar Panorama CS12
Yup!
I bought it from Guitar Center from Seattle WA but it came out from china thanks
its like CC121 on steroids
It is!!! 🤩
Jog wheel? 🥹
Needs Bitwig support pronto
And Ableton!! 🤘🏻
This must be a rugged unit, judging by the way you shake the unit.
Good expensive mouse for the thick wallet guys.😁
😂😂😂
It’s just REALLY light!
I don't know about the "best" controller. Have you seen what the MP Controller does with Cubase? It's been out for a few months
Just one fader? It's no better than a mouse
Great. But a controller without jog wheel is not a controller. And an encoder is not a jog wheel.
Agree. Personally I never use a jog wheel and if a controller has one I change it to a big zoom knob.
But I do agree that many users prefer having a jog/shuttle wheel.
Hey, you said they dropped support for Cubase. The opposite is true - they *gained* support for Cubase. I hate English.
LOL! Yeah I caught that only while editing.
I ment like when an artist drops a single/album 😂🤦🏻♂️
Vvvv
Shocking!!! Company does not give an expensive product to a super small unknown youtuber for free !!! How dare them!!!
LOL!!!
Actually, I wasn’t asking them for anything (not even a free product). Just offered my help.
@@BrianRivlin Than I misunderstood something and apologize, of course...