VCM-600 Ultimate Generic MIDI controller
I just realized that there is nothing out there quite like the VCM-600.
72 backlit buttons, 11 faders, 61 pots, and 1 encoder.
All the current generic controllers use multiple buttons/pots of the same size, making it difficult to fit a lot of controls in a relatively compact size.
They’re being sold for around 300-400 bucks now, so anyone looking for a good generic controller to map to TRAKTOR 4 decks and stems, etc., should definitely check them out.
seems legit, but i prefer the akai apc40 as the go to suggestion for anyone wanting a lot of real estate for a little price tag.
you could do a lot with this tho. looks nicer too.
Deejaesnafu, thanks for the post.
I never considered the APC40 but now that I know a little bit about it, I guess this would also be my choice if I preferred the 16 encoders over the 60 pots. There’s a part in me though that wants symmetry on the controller when controlling two symmetrical objects in the software. For example, I can’t figure out a good way to map two sets of controls for two stems deck on APC 40 while keeping basic controls for the main mixer also present; I can do this by using channels 5-8 for one Stems deck and the 8 fx encoders for another Stems deck, but it just does’t feel as appealing as what I could do with the VCM.
for a little price tag.
Do you know of any other controller that I might like, even with a “bigger” price tag?
I know a lot of people also like the behringer BCR2000 for the same reasons, a lot of real estate for little price tag. that vestax is pretty sweet, but you could buy 2 or 3 apc 40 for that price 
You’ve already made that point in your first post. What if the price tag wasn’t the main concern? Any cool ideas to achieve what I want with any of the gear you tell me about, or any other more expensive ones?
I’m tilting towards figuring out a good mapping for an APC 40 MkII now.
The mk1 has more mappable features than the mk2. And I would highly suggest mapping your own controller, rather than looking for a mapping for the control you choose.
Of course if stems are important to you, a d2 or s2 or s8 are the best way to play stems.
Could you kindly tell me where you referred to for the relevant MIDI messages, etc? I couldn’t find such info on their manuals.
The Mk 1 doesn’t operate with bus power though, right? That’s really my only concern.
That’s where I don’t agree though, and that’s exactly why I started this thread. The S8 is too big… I have been in many DJ booths where it would definitely be hard to find a good spot for it. I am not too thrilled with having multiple D2s either… too much gear for me… All I want is a bunch of buttons a bunch of pots/faders, especially now that the stems can be seen on the computer screen.
I just bought a VCM-600 from Italy. This is probably the cheapest way to get one on the market now, for anyone who’s interested.
STEMS can be mapped to anything and you do get their waveforms displayed on Traktor’s UI. The only real benefit as far as STEM control go of the F1, D2, S5 or S8 would be plug and play integration.
It’s worth noting that the VCM might not be as an APC but it’s quite more rugged so it should last quite longer.
Sloghtly off topic since I come from CNTRL:R but just recently uploaded to MAPS. In my mapping there are two “Reset” button - one for each stem deck A and B. I can hit this button and clear all slot FX, reset slot filters and unmute all slots in one press of the button. Very, very handy for transitions! I can also hold shift and press FX, Filter or Mute slot button to solo one stem/slot.
Hey there! I did a little MIDI spec for the APC40 a long time ago that I still have on my website. Feel free to use it as a reference. Even though I did it for the original version, I doubt much has changed.
i also would count the on board displays as a pretty big benefit.
Thanks!! I already bought the VCM-600 but if I’m not satisfied with it, I would definitely try mapping the APC with the help of your spec sheet. Looks like a really mappable device there…
I think you’re right in general. I’m peculiar in that I don’t like “looking” that much during my DJ performances, so it’s actually better for me that the PC screen is the only place for me to look. (I want to touch and feel everything on the controller)
I do like controllers that show loop length, though, since it’s hard to see the values on screen - probably due to my eyesight.
