• Overview
• Skylight User Interface
• Instruments in X1 Studio
• Effects in X1 Studio
• Smart Tools
• SONAR X1 Reviews
• Comparison Chart
• System Requirements
• Free SONAR X1 Updates
• SONAR X1 Resources
• New customer? Find a dealer
• Upgrade today

Using MIDI Controllers and ACT

SONAR X1 gives you dynamic control of your instruments and work flow. Use any MIDI controller to play virtual instruments. Plus breakthroughs in SONAR like Active Controller Technology make it easy to map the knobs and sliders on your keyboard or control surface automatically.

Active Controller Technology

Get instant hands-on control of all your instruments and effects using ACT. Grab the knobs and sliders of your MIDI controller and know that they're going to control your favorite parameters on every instrument and effect you happen to be using in SONAR—just the way you want. Setup can be automatic or custom and either way it’s as simple as pushing a button and twisting controls. ACT takes care of the rest.

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MIDI Controllers

Easily add popular MIDI controllers including the Cakewalk A-PRO series for serious control of your virtual instruments. Even use ACT to mix your project via a MIDI controller.

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Control Surfaces for SONAR X1

Control Surfaces—SONAR supports popular control surfaces including those from Mackie, Euphonix, and Frontier Design. Enjoy the best control surface support in the industry.

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ACT Module Get direct access to ACT settings right from your Control Bar. SONAR X1 makes it easy to update your ACT devices, map your MIDI controller, and even turn off ACT right from the module.