Performer Magazine reviews the Contour ShuttleXpress
PROS: Small form factor, easy to program, useful across software platforms.
CONS: None.
PRICE: $59
In the April issue, we reviewed the Contour ShuttlePRO v2, which is a great tool for pretty much any piece of software. Now they’re at it again with the ShuttleXpress, which gives similar functionality in a smaller package.
It’s about the size of a hockey puck, with 5 buttons sitting on the north side. A spring-loaded click wheel resides in the center, with a scroll wheel inside it, just like on the PROv2. Place a hand over it, and each finger sits right at each button, so there’s no issues getting used to its ergonomics, and it works for both left handed and right handed users comfortably.
The downloadable driver gives the user the ability to select whatever software they’re using, and assign the buttons and click wheel to any keystroke, command or even a programmable macro. It works across every popular piece of software made for Mac or PC. Audio, video, CAD, even mundane programs like Excel or Word work without issue. Even better, each button’s function can vary across the software, making it adjustable for whatever workflow habits the user has.
It’s ultra portable and can fit in the pocket of a laptop bag easily. Using this in a remote setting, when time and efficiency can be a factor, it can be a godsend (especially for mobile recording projects or demoing tracks in cramped hotel rooms on tour). A great audio application is to assign buttons to record, pause, stop, and save – boom, instant transport controls! In a practice room, it’s easy to set up a laptop to record, and use these buttons to run the session, without having to operate the computer. For a vocalist in an isolation booth, run the ShuttleXpress into the booth, and use it to control the session from there; no need for someone else to hit Record or Stop.
Its street price is $59, and for users that might not need all the PROv2 has, this can give their non-mouse/trackpad hand a lot more functionality, without getting overwhelmed. Totally recommended.
FEATURES
Weight: 0.5 lbs
Dimensions: 4.33 x 4.33 x 1.15 in
Wheel Type: Jog Wheel, Shuttle Wheel
Buttons: 5 programmable buttons
OS: OSX, Windows
Connection: USB