All eight of the UF8's channels are each equipped with an endless rotary encoder and there is a large notched Channel encoder that has several functions.

Channel mode banks DAW tracks one at a time while Nudge mode, a Pro Tools-specific function, moves audio in the selected Nudge value, and Focus Mode turns the control into a mouse wheel scrolling for adjusting parameters in plugins.

On first glance, the "stars" of this show are the eight, touch-sensitive 100-mm motorized faders and the eight hi-res color displays all arranged ergonomically perfectly on the brushed anodized surface. But the UF8's supporting "cast" of features make it irresistible starting with its powerful software.

The UF8 uses SSL's 360° Control software that easily manages control of up to three different DAWs simultaneously--you can switch between numerous sessions "on the fly" using the Layer keys.

Many music makers might prefer Apple's Logic Pro for programming, Ableton Live for loop creation, and Pro Tools for the final mix. The UF8 will use HUI for Pro Tools with SSL's Channel and Plugin Modes added and then MCP/MCU for Logic, Cubase, Nuendo, PreSonus Studio One and Ableton Live.

Just from my 10,000-foot overview, this is the best controller I've seen so far at this price level and I plan to have one in my near future. Anyone who writes, records, and mixes music using all the popular DAWs would be crazy NOT to have one of these. The UF8 sells for $1,299 at dealers and includes SSL's Native Vocalstrip 2 & Drumstrip plug-ins.