DIY MIDI Controller Info

[MONSTA]

Hey everyone, I'm building my own MIDI controller and am documenting the progress etc...

My latest post might be of some use to people who are looking into building their own, but are not certain of exactly what they need. It just runs through all the modules you will need and what they'll do:

http://www.monstamusic.co.uk/2010/04/midibox-modules/

If you find it useful, leave a comment on the blog etc...
More to come soon.

Monsta

[faeruithir]

I can't seem to access the site.

Is that just me..?

[basspenetrator]

i have no probs with the site...
interesting project.. i will follow..

[MrSteve81]

I will also be following this.

[Archies'bald]

I've looked in to modding lots of Usb joypads and frankly I'm a little fed up with the limitations of them. They are fantastic for cheap no frills controllers, but it's not what I'm looking for.

The midibox stuff has always intrigued and scared me at the same time. Is it just a case of adding all the parts together and then wiring the buttons, sliders and leds to the appropriate pcb, or do you have to know a little bit about programming? The wiring and soldering holds no fears for me, but the programming would mean I would have to learn another language, literally.

edit : Oh, and can you use rotary encoders with them too?

Any info hugely welcomed.

[faeruithir]

i think that there are pre made programs you can download for your Midibox if you make one of the standard configurations like midibox 64. If i'm correct you don't have to have the full number of knobs/buttons/LEDs though.

Yes you can use rotary encoders with Midibox but I think only specific kinds..

[MONSTA]

Yeah you can use encoders, check out the Midibox64e (the e is important!).

As far as programming goes, all the work has been done for you by the amazing guys over at ucapps.de. All you have to do is edit a config file, then compile the application using that config file. I'd never done any of that stuff before, so it shouldn't pose a problem....

[faeruithir]

btw
is it possible to make a USB powered midibox?
thats whats holding me back right now. I really don't wanna have another power adapter to lug around and find an outlet for.

[MONSTA]

There's a bit of controversy on that one!
Basically if you're not going to have any LEDs (or not a lot anyway) you can get away with powering it off the GM5 USB Module...

I was under the impression I'd be able to power mine through USB (looking at an APC40 etc) but I'm going to have to build a transformer into my box as well! Which isn't so bad really, I'll just have an IEC (kettle lead) port in the back as it's pretty standard and should be able to pick one up anywhere if I forget it etc.

I actually prefer it this way as sucking that much power from your laptop isn't very wise and the LEDs aren't going to be as bright...
Monsta

[mike_o]

I am seriously looking into doing a custom build but I have never assembled electronics, only played with them, configuring the proper board selection seem s a little confusing, but I just need to do more reading.