O.k.

Starting with the UC16 midi controller from evolution.

A little USB powered device that has 16 knobs on the front that can be used to control any MIDI enabled program or device. I have found that it works best on reason, fruityloops and ableton. The dials are fully programmable and can be used in conjunction with evolutions on screen editor to program the device to control hardware synthesisers as well...

Those wanting faders might be interested in the Uc33 with has vertical faders and more and larger sized pots for control.

There is another variation on the Uc16, the Evolution X-Session. This is effectively a UC16 with a crossfader and larger dials. A totally excellent piece of kit for both people wishing to use ableton to DJ with and VJs.

Personal Experience: I have used this little beast many times over the last three years, it hasnt broken down on me, lost its settings or any other ungracious behavour. For the price i recommend it.

Other reviews in the pipeline: Zoom FX / Ensoniq DP4 / Novation K-Station / Yamaha O1X / Evolution MK249c