Nektar Pacer

^# 8

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$117.89 to $247.98 Price Tier: Standard

5.0 (2)

3 Critic Reviews

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3 wishlisted

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Page last updated Jun 30, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated June 30, 2026.

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Reviews

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4.5 (28)

$229.99

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5.0 (3)

$229.99

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4.3 (137)

$247.98

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5.0 (2)

$117.89 2 available Used

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3.0 (4)

$229.99

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5.0 (3)

$229.99

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5.0 (1)

$229.99

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4.8 (64)

$195.00 $189.00 $6.00 · All time low

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$229.99

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Average Price: $215

Standard/Professional

$199

$500+

Price Tier

In the MIDI Foot Controllers category, Nektar Pacer is priced in the Standard/Professional range. This is quality gear at a fair price point, suitable for beginners, hobbyists, and pros alike.

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High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 7 merchants for "Nektar Pacer". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

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Description

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Experience hands-free, seamless control with the Nektar Pacer MIDI Foot Controller—a game-changer for musicians and producers alike. Designed for both the studio and the stage, the Pacer offers unparalleled control of your DAW and guitar rig, all while keeping your hands free to focus on your performance. Housed in a robust metal casing, this foot controller is built to withstand the rigors of live gigs and demanding studio sessions.

With 10 programmable LED foot switches and support for up to four external foot switches and two expression pedals, the Pacer provides an impressive array of customizable control options. Each foot switch can trigger up to 16 MIDI messages, allowing you to instantly reconfigure your setup with a single tap. The Pacer also features four programmable relays for controlling amp channels and effects, making it a versatile tool for any musician.

Compatibility is key, and the Pacer doesn't disappoint. It supports a wide range of DAWs including Ableton Live, Logic, Cubase, and more, thanks to its integration with MCU (Mackie Control Universal). The dedicated RGB LED icons provide visual feedback, ensuring you always know what's happening at a glance.

Whether you're controlling a complex DAW setup or managing your guitar effects, the Nektar Pacer's flexibility, durability, and ease of use make it an indispensable part of any musician's arsenal.

Key Features:

10 programmable LED foot switches
24 presets with up to 16 MIDI commands each
Supports 4 external foot switches and 2 expression pedals
4 programmable relays for amp and effect control
MIDI Machine Control (MMC) and USB class compliant
Compatible with major DAWs and guitar processors like Line 6, Kemper, and more
Powered via USB or external 9V power supply

Product specs

Type	Nektar MIDI Foot Controller
Pedal Inputs	2 x 1/4" TRS (expression), 2 x 1/4" TRS (switching pedals 1-4), 2 x 1/4" TRS (relays/momentary 1-4)
MIDI I/O	Out
USB	1 x Type B
Compatibility	Nektar DAW, Standard DAW's, Line 6, Kemper, Fractal, Avid Eleven Rack
Requirements - Mac	OS X 10.8 or later
Requirements - PC	Windows 7 SP1 or later
Power Source	9V DC power supply (sold separately)
Height	1.85"
Width	19.6"
Depth	9.0"
Weight	7.7 lbs.

FAQs

Is the Nektar Pacer compatible with popular DAWs like Ableton Live and Pro Tools?: Yes, the Nektar Pacer is compatible with standard DAWs including Ableton Live and Pro Tools, allowing for seamless integration and control.
What kind of pedals can I connect to the Nektar Pacer?: The Nektar Pacer supports 2 expression pedals and 4 switching pedals via 1/4" TRS inputs, providing versatile control options.
Does the Nektar Pacer require a separate power supply?: Yes, the Nektar Pacer requires a 9V DC power supply, which is sold separately.
Can the Nektar Pacer be used with guitar processors like Line 6 and Kemper?: Yes, the Nektar Pacer is compatible with guitar processors such as Line 6, Kemper, and others, making it suitable for guitarists needing MIDI control.
How does the Nektar Pacer connect to a computer?: The Nektar Pacer connects to a computer via USB Type B, facilitating easy integration with digital audio workstations.

Videos

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NektarTechnology

Nektar Pacer MIDI Daw Footswitch Controller

NektarTechnology

Nektar Pacer MIDI Footswitch Controller with Ableton Live

Erik Hawk

Using Amplitube 5 with the PACER MIDI Foot Controller – Nektar Pacer Tutorial

NektarTechnology

Nektar Pacer unboxing and quick programming

Citizen Warwick

Learn to Program the Nektar Pacer FAST | Understand the Menus | Make it Work!!!

Andy Harper

TheKVB - Nektar Pacer GearTalk

NektarTechnology

Is the Nektar Pacer worth buying?

IbandUK

Nektar Pacer MIDI Daw Footswitch Controller

Мир Музыки

Nektar Pacer - Demo y Jam Session en Drunkat

Drunkat - Pro Audio e Instrumentos Musicales

Reviews

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PROS

Extremely flexible and programmable for various needs
Built like a tank, durable for footwork
Direct integration with DAWs like Ableton Live
Works out of the box for certain setups
Supports a wide range of external pedals and devices
Color coding pedals for easy navigation
Presets available for popular software like Eleven Rack
Reasonably priced for its features and build quality
Can control DAW transports and switch patches easily
Compatible with various expression pedals for enhanced control

CONS

Not user-friendly for MIDI beginners without effort
Limited documentation and outdated support materials
Programming can be tedious and time-consuming
LED display lacks sufficient information during operation
Large data encoder appears less durable compared to other parts
No standalone software for DAW integration, complicating setup

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Nektar Pacer.

Features and functionality

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The Pacer's footswitches can be programmed to output MIDI messages, enabling record, play, and undo functions on the RC505 MKII.
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Users can program toggles and on/off LED states, but pressing a new toggle doesn't automatically turn off the previous one.
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Program Change Preset mappings allow users to switch between custom presets like "X Song clean part" and "X Song distorted part" on channel 1.
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Software and compatibility

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Users recommend using the Pacer Editor via Chrome for optimal performance and making sure both MIDI input and output are set to Pacer 1.
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Using TRS cables for relay connections ensures compatibility between the Pacer and RC505 MKII’s control jacks.
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The StudioCode.dev editor is highly regarded for its flexibility, allowing users to trigger samples and change virtual guitar pedals.
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Users are interested in changing the selected Nektar profile via a MIDI message to the device, though it's unclear if this is possible.
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Users found "Program Change" mappings effective for controlling Archetype Petrucci presets with the Pacer, while CC mappings were ineffective.
Source

Setup and maintenance

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To fully utilize the Pacer with the RC505 MKII, firmware updates and proper CC# assignments are crucial for each memory.
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User experience

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Some owners note that settings must be saved to each memory slot on the RC505 MKII, which can be cumbersome without a memory template.
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Owners find it challenging to see which loop is playing without looking at their computer, seeking better visual feedback directly on the pedal board.
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Use cases and applications

0 0

By using the Pacer’s relay outputs and RC505’s CTL functions, users can add four more MIDI controls beyond the standard 16 assignments.
Source
0 0

The Pacer can be used to trigger playback of live loop scenes in Logic through "CC Trigger" functions.
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0 0

Expression pedals can successfully control volume on standalone plugins when properly mapped through MIDI learning.
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Mods and upgrades

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Customizing the REC and UNDO presets on the Pacer allows for additional control over input FX and can be achieved by editing the MIDI assignments.
Source

Critic Reviews

Nektar Pacer

soundonsound.com

The Nektar Pacer MIDI Foot Controller delivers impressive control capabilities at an accessible price. With its robust design and extensive programmability, it excels in both studio and live settings, allowing users to manipulate DAWs and MIDI gear seamlessly. The onboard presets for various amp and effect models further enhance its versatility. However, the limited display screen can hinder usability, making it challenging to manage complex setups without prior organization. Additionally, a dedicated librarian or editor software would significantly improve the user experience. Overall, it's a solid investment for musicians looking for a powerful, multifunctional foot controller, but be prepared for a learning curve when programming its many features.

positive

Full Review

Nektar Pacer review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Nektar Pacer stands out as a versatile control surface, particularly appealing to guitarists and live electronic musicians looking to streamline their setup. Its robust build and extensive MIDI control capabilities allow for creative flexibility in both studio and live environments. While it excels at foot-triggering DAW functions, its two-row display can be a bit cumbersome for newcomers. Additionally, its primary appeal may be skewed towards tech-savvy users, which could alienate some traditionalists. Overall, if you're ready to embrace a hands-free approach to music production, the Pacer is a worthy investment.

positive

Full Review

Reviewed: Nektar Pacer MIDI DAW Footswitch Controller - Mixdown Magazine

mixdownmag.com.au

The Nektar Pacer MIDI DAW Footswitch Controller is a game-changer for home recording, offering guitarists seamless integration without compromising workflow. With a sturdy build and responsive buttons, it’s designed to endure the rigors of live performance and studio use alike. The customizable controls and bright LED display enhance usability, making it a valuable asset for both guitarists and producers. However, while its functionality is praised, the slightly firm button presses may require some adjustment for comfort during extended use. Overall, it’s an innovative solution that elevates home recording setups, despite minor ergonomic drawbacks.

positive

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

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Artist usage

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Marcin Patrzalek

Guitarist

Verified via YouTube

In the beginning of this video Marcin explains how he uses the Nektar Pacer Footswitch Pedal in his live performances and how much of a useful device it is.