You may create as many universes as you need.
For each external controller create one "controller" universe.
For each DMX output, create a "DMX" universe.
Controller universes (usually) use only input and if available feedback (e.g. when you have controller with LEDs or motor faders)
DMX universes mostly use output, but you may also use input if you want to merge/forward DMX data from an input device (e.g. artnet or DMX input)
Fixtures are usually patched only to DMX universes.
Input profiles are used with controller universes. Consult
this list
for out-of-box supported controllers and recommended settings.
It's best to not mix controllers and DMX in one universe (usually it doesn't work then
). Let's play safe, and keep universes separated. There is an ample supply of them
Finally, there is the
loopback plugin that allows looping data from one universe output to [another] universe input. With this plugin the distinction fades a bit.
Anyway, you don't need loopback for now.
Jano