Novation ReMote 49

I just wanted to add that the pitch bend messages are only 7 bit resolution, and Novation does not round up or down the second 7 bits in the pitch bend message, like other manufactures. And the message updates for all the controllers is alittle slow compared to my other synths. So I'm knocking Novation down 3 points to a six, because you do pay for a premium controller when you buy a Novation Remote.

All still working after about 2 years

Using the computer applet to edit the Remotes' large amount of setup parameters, makes it simple to define all the controllers your way. You can do all the editing at the keyboard in which case the 'Ease of Use' is about a 2. All controls work pretty much as you would imagine them to. A short, well written manual was included.

The Keyboard action is first rate. Novation advertises it as 'semiweighted' and i'd strongly emphaize semi. The aftertouch responce is wonderful. The knobs are simply ok. You get the feeling you're going to have to replace a few of them in a few years. You can send MIDI CC, RPN/NRPN, Sysex, Program Change, Note On/Off, and MTC messages. The display allows discriptions (displayed when you move a knob..) of up to 16 characters. The keyboard holds 64 different teplates (control definations).
There are 2 MIDI outs, 1 MIDI in and USB In/Out. Some might think this overkill, but I've put all I/O to good use with a MIDI patchbay (MIDIExpressXT) and Kurzweil Expressionmate.

The Remote allows you to be very 'Expressive' thru the excellent keyboard aftertouch and XY pad. I could wish for pressure responce on the XY pad, but I'd just be whining. The Remote49 does not make any sounds.

Everything except for the pots and sliders is excellent. The pots are simply ok and the sliders are ok to good.

I have not personally tried to contact Novation, but I've heard bad things from other people in the USA. There is a great Yahoo Users Group that Novation support people frequent and are helpful. I'll tell you more after I try to purchase a few extra knobs.
Novation has updated the Keyboard OS to fix minor bugs, so they are 'listining'.

You get what you pay for. The Novation Remote cost more than the others, but you definately get what you pay for. They are coming out with a lower cost version (rumor mill). But what I'd like to see is a higher cost 88 key version in a real wood case with intelligence and programability (code compiler on the PC) for under $1000.00.