Do you use a hardware controller to edit your VST instruments?

[mcnelson]

I have a launchpad for Live, but for VST's I like to build stuff in TouchOsc and use a tablet. That way I get to choose whether a rotary, fader or toggle is best suited to a particular parameter and can have something specific and tailored. It's pain in the ass to learn (as the documentation is not the best) but once you get the fundamentals it becomes easy enough - just a bit laborious (The editor could be a bit more user friendly).

Ultraloop for example:

The main 6 "Seq & FX" control boxes easily map to a 4x4 toggle grid each. Sure, you could map each to a rotary or fader on a hardware controller, but then you lose the immediate link between what you see on the screen and what you're controlling.

NMG

[V0RT3X]

This is a good one if you need a solid Midi controller. http://www.roland.com/products/en/A-800PRO/

[Ghostwave]

I've got a Novation ReMote 61 SL and a 25 SL compact running through Automap Pro but only tie knobs and sliders with VSTis for performance purposes (when simply playing or recording automation).
For sound design, KB+mouse is much faster.

[Bubbamusic]

This is a good one if you need a solid Midi controller. http://www.roland.com/products/en/A-800PRO/

Has Roland fixed the "dead key syndrome"? I've had three Roland controllers over the years and they all had the syndrome. I have an old 50 Roland sitting in the corner of my control room with half of the keys dead. I finally switched manufacturers.