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Novation Nocturn Plug-In Controller

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$36.22

3.5 (21)

3 Critic Reviews

9 Reviews

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4 wishlisted

42 saved

Page last updated Jun 12, 2026

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5.0 (1)

$36.22 5 available Used

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Description

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Unleash the full potential of your music with the Novation Nocturn Plug-In Controller, a compact yet powerful tool for DJs and producers alike. This intelligent controller is designed to seamlessly integrate with your setup, offering exclusive Automap Universal 2.0 technology that provides automatic, instant control of all automatable plug-ins across major sequencers, including Pro Tools. Whether you're in a dimly lit club or your home studio, the Nocturn's eight touch-sensitive rotary encoders, each surrounded by a bright eleven-LED ring, ensure precision and visibility.

At the heart of the Nocturn is its unique 'Speed Dial', a touch-sensitive rotary encoder that allows you to take immediate control of any parameter your mouse is hovering over. This feature, combined with eight user-assignable illuminated buttons and a professional-grade 45mm cross-fader, offers a tactile experience that enhances your creative workflow. The Nocturn's transparent 'heads-up' control GUI makes navigating your parameters effortlessly, with instant 'learn' functions to reassign controls on the fly.

Designed with flexibility in mind, the Nocturn also accommodates standard MIDI protocol, making it an excellent choice for controlling hardware MIDI devices. Its sleek, ultra-low profile and side-mounted USB socket enable it to integrate seamlessly into any setup, whether perched in front of your QWERTY keyboard or alongside a larger MIDI controller.

Key Features:

Automap Universal 2.0 for automatic and intelligent plug-in control
8 touch-sensitive rotary encoders with LED feedback
1 unique 'Speed Dial' for instant parameter control
8 user-assignable illuminated buttons
45mm professional cross-fader
MIDI mapping capabilities with transparent display
Compact, portable design with side-mounted USB socket

Product specs

Brand	Novation
Model	Nocturn MIDI DAW Controller
Finish	Black
Year	2008
Categories	Keyboard MIDI Controllers, Pad MIDI Controllers
Analog / Digital	Digital
MIDI I/O	USB MIDI

FAQs

Is the Novation Nocturn Plug-In Controller compatible with major DAWs like Ableton Live or Pro Tools?: Yes, the Novation Nocturn is compatible with major DAWs, including Ableton Live and Pro Tools, making it versatile for various music production setups.
How does the Automap feature of the Novation Nocturn enhance workflow?: The Automap feature automatically maps the Nocturn's controls to your DAW's parameters, streamlining your workflow by allowing quick access and control over plugins and instruments.
What type of connectivity does the Novation Nocturn Plug-In Controller offer?: The Novation Nocturn connects via USB MIDI, providing a straightforward setup for integration with your computer and DAW.
Does the Novation Nocturn have customizable controls?: Yes, the Novation Nocturn offers customizable controls, allowing you to assign functions to knobs and buttons to suit your specific production needs.
Is the Novation Nocturn suitable for live performance use?: The Novation Nocturn is designed primarily for studio use, but its compact size and intuitive controls can be adapted for live performance setups.

Videos

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Sound On Sound magazine

SOS NAMM: Novation Nocturn

Sound On Sound magazine

Is a Novation Nocturn worth buying in 2019 ?

The REAPER Blog

Novation Nocturn MIDI Control Surface

Gear4music Guitars

Novation Nocturn

GetintheMix

Reviews

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PROS

Great for Logic Factory Vi and Plugins
Ideal for live effects control in Ableton
Perfect for on-the-go automapping needs
Enhances laptop/software-based DJ setups
Offers knob or slider control at your mouse point
Layout and button feel are highly praised

CONS

Knobs can be imprecise, described as "flaky"
Requires duplication of plugins for Automap use
Learning curve for proper use with multiple plugins
Novation driver software needs to run for connection, causing frustration
Some users find it difficult to utilize effectively

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Novation Nocturn Plug-In Controller.

Software and compatibility

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Some users find MIDI readings function in Ableton but struggle with MIDI learn, suggesting compatibility issues possibly related to Windows 11.
Source
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Novation Nocturn is used with Reaper for automating synths and controlling plugins, leveraging Reaper's parameter learning for efficient track-specific control.
Source

Features and functionality

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The Nocturn can function with nine knobs, eight buttons, and a crossfader, but may require specific Max4Live devices for full modern DAW integration.
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The Nocturn is praised for its simplicity, offering just the essential knobs needed for controlling DAW plugins without unnecessary extras like pads.
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The Nocturn is employed for recording automation, allowing for precise control over synth parameters and plugin manipulation in a DAW setup.
Source

Setup and maintenance

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Checking the Nocturn's Remote Control box in Live's MIDI settings is essential for proper functionality in Ableton.
Source

Value and pricing

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Owners report finding the Nocturn for $40-50 on platforms like eBay or Reverb, considering it a great value for its functionality and frequent use.
Source

User experience

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Long-term users highlight that once set up, the Nocturn is highly reliable and feels like it should've been priced higher due to its utility.
Source

Comparisons

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The Nocturn is often compared to the Behringer BCR2000 for users seeking a controller with numerous knobs, though the Nocturn focuses more on plugin control.
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Use cases and applications

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Ideal for users who need a dedicated plugin controller with manual and automatic mapping options, enhancing workflow in DAWs.
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Users integrate the Nocturn to control synths and automate recording, enhancing workflow efficiency by reducing reliance on keyboard and mouse.
Source

Critic Reviews

Novation Nocturn

soundonsound.com

Novation's Nocturn Plug-In Controller is a budget-friendly gem offering hands-on control with its intuitive Automap technology. Its compact design doesn't compromise on functionality, featuring touch-sensitive knobs and a unique Speed Dial for seamless DAW integration. The Automap software brings a level of sophistication usually reserved for higher-end controllers, making it a versatile tool for both plug-ins and MIDI control. However, the initial setup can be cumbersome, and the knobs lack some stability. Despite these minor setbacks, the Nocturn stands out for its affordability and adaptability, making it a valuable addition to any studio.

positive

Full Review

Novation: Nocturn Intelligent Plug-in Controller | Tape Op Magazine | Longform candid interviews with music producers and audio engineers covering mixing, mastering, recording and music production.

tapeop.com

Novation's Nocturn Plug-In Controller stands out with its innovative Automap software, making it a breeze to sync your DAW and plug-ins. Its compact design and intuitive layout with touch-sensitive knobs and LED indicators are highlights. While its unique Speed Dial feature might be awkward initially, it proves efficient upon practice. However, the software is not yet universal, facing limits with certain plug-ins and DAW mixer integrations. Despite some fragility in knobs, its precise performance and affordable price make it an attractive option for control surface enthusiasts, though it may not fully replace the mouse for everyone.

positive

Full Review

Novation Nocturn review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Novation Nocturn impresses as a budget-friendly, compact MIDI controller offering intuitive Automap functionality for seamless plug-in management. Its eight touch-sensitive rotary encoders and crossfader provide hands-on control, while the Speed Dial adds versatility across applications. The lack of a built-in display is mitigated by Automap software, which simplifies setup and assignment visibility. While Automap isn't flawless, its Learn mode allows for easy customization. Despite its plastic build, the Nocturn feels durable and offers a sleek design. Overall, it's an affordable, practical choice for musicians seeking hands-on plugin control without breaking the bank.

positive

Full Review

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3.5 out of 5

Based on 9 Reviews and 21 Ratings

5 star

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1 star

jp_belanger

619

over 5 years ago

Novation and their g-d drivers...

Maybe I didn't get how the unit could be used more easily, but I really didn't enjoy the time I had using it.

The layout is very nice, buttons feel great, but the knobs are VERY flaky at best. Don't expect any kind of precise movement; could as well be a 0-50-100% switch.

Everytime I plugged it in, the Novation driver software would have to run and create some kind of connection to Ableton Live. I have had over 100 MIDI controllers in my life and never have I hated one so much. So frustrating since the layout was perfect for me: I wanted to use the crossfader for kind of Elektron Octatrack-like morphing.

I ended up pulling it apart and using parts for repairs on other gear.

nacho_rettally

198

over 8 years ago

Cool but...

Amazing for Logic Factory Vi and Plugins, but it really sucks when all of my plugins have to be duplicated for Automap's use. Works great but in the end I had to remove all of the doubled plugins. Left the unit for Native plugins only. Which ned no configuration.

john_withers

815

over 7 years ago

Never got it to do anything useful

The music press raved about the Nocturne and Automap so I bought one and I was never able to get it to do anything useful...maybe its just me. I still see it in my basement and wonder what I did wrong hehe.

brendan_ihmig

308

about 11 years ago

Might Mouse

The Nocturn is basically the Might Mouse version of your standard 'click 'n scroll' mouse. A fantastic add-on to any home studio or laptop setup which puts a knob or slider at the point of your mouse. The Nocturn can also be a great addition to laptop/software focused DJ.