Reply to What Next? Could use help picking a dedicated controller for Effects.

Good Morning TechToolers,

I've been learning and using Traktor for ~1.5 years now, and one area where I'm really lacking is the use of effects. I rarely use them now and lately I've been on a quest to learn how to effectively use them. I've been digging through old posts here, watching YouTube tutorials, Scouring Traktor Bible & the NI community s, even decided to RTF(Traktor)M on the effects.

Here's my current setup, a VCI-100 that I've loaded the 1.4 Firmware on with the newest DJTT mapping and an F1 to the right of it.
Current Setup.jpg

I really love the combination, but aside from the JogFX and some effects samples I've added to some of my remix sets I really don't use any effects. The DJTT mapping for the VCI-100 is really tight and slick (not to mention quite complex), and I hate the idea of screwing around with it much. I believe the layout of the F1 is brilliant as-is, and I don't want to alter its functionality to use it for effects.

I guess that leaves me wanting to get another controller to use on the left side of the VCI (or maybe behind it). This is where I could use a hand. Basically I need something modular\smallish with a bunch of knobs and some buttons. I want to have a couple of super knobs, some dedicated knobs for some of the new Traktor macroFX, and optimally the instant grat fx or the ability to map them.

So, here are my current candidates.

NI X1: Kind of a no-brainer. 12 knobs, bunch of buttons, HID, matches the aesthetics of the F1, already awesome effects mappings for it. Downside is it's a bit pricey for what it is and ???

Xone K2: Probably better build quality than anything else but MF, more knobs, 4 faders (although don't need them for this purpose), sound card (not necessary, but handy). Downside is it's even more than the X1 and ???

Korg LPD8: Cheap, 8 knobs and 8 pads, multiple banks, small. Downside is less controls than the X1 or K2, don't really need the pads for this purpose (I guess you can use them like buttons?)

Akai NanoControl2: Mad Cheap, 8 knobs, 8 faders, bunch of buttons, small. Downside is reportedly cheap\toyish build quality and ???

BehringerCMD???: The new CMD line has a few controllers that look like tons of knobs, faders, buttons, etc. Downside is they're still unobtanium.

MFPro or 3D: Brilliant effects controls and combos out of the box. Downside, $$ and not many knobs to play with if you're looking to map a bunch of superknobs.

So, I'd love some input from the community on any of the above, or any other similar controllers that I'm overlooking altogether.

Cheers and thank in advance.