basically a midi controller acts as the main interface between you and your pc, sequences can be recorded that you play via its keyboard into midi tracks within the sequencer and sequencer/software instruments parameters can be alterd with its controls.Originally Posted by tekboi
The novation controller has a number of template layouts it supports including cubase but you can customise these also, so the sliders might operate seperate volume channels within cubase, knobs assigned to filter controls etc.
there are all sorts of midi control interfaces though that can work together, say if u wanted a master midi controller keyboard for notation input then a second control surface to operate the main sequencer controls on but cost wise, and simplicity wise id say the novation controler would be excellent for you.