Do I need endless encoders?

**inov8** · 02-22-2011, 09:22 AM

Hi all,

I am looking to add to my current setup. Now I am more comfortable with controller basics, I want to take things to the next level.

Having started of with a Faderfox DJ3, I have now ordered a Midi Fighter to give me more control over cue points and loops. However, while waiting for it to arrive, I decided that the addition of some more knobs would give me greater creative freedom.

I am very interested in Livid's Code (http://goo.gl/ikWza). It looks almost perfect for the extra level of control I need. My only concern is the resolution/ speed of the knobs. Ideally, I'd like to be able to make fine adjustments to certain parameters (FX, filters, pitch...) but I am unsure whether I would bump up against the 128-step limit of standard MIDI messages.

The Code uses endless encoders which I believe can send both absolute values and incremental/decremental ones. If I used increments with very low values (when used with a modifier, for example) would I be able to emulate the action of higher resolution devices? I am guessing I could but I can't be certain. Would the endless encoders give me fine control?

I also spotted a Monome knobby thing (http://goo.gl/w0tOo) which they allege is high resolution and might pair well with the MIDI Fighter. It looks interesting. The only problem is it uses OSC. It also seems very expensive for two, admittedly stylish, encoders stuck in a piece of wood. Does it offer any tangible benefits over the Code?

Any suggestions or advice would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks

**fleater** · 02-22-2011, 10:14 AM

Originally Posted by inov8

Hi all,

I am looking to add to my current setup. Now I am more comfortable with controller basics, I want to take things to the next level.

Having started of with a Faderfox DJ3, I have now ordered a Midi Fighter to give me more control over cue points and loops. However, while waiting for it to arrive, I decided that the addition of some more knobs would give me greater creative freedom.

I am very interested in Livid's Code (http://goo.gl/ikWza). It looks almost perfect for the extra level of control I need. My only concern is the resolution/ speed of the knobs. Ideally, I'd like to be able to make fine adjustments to certain parameters (FX, filters, pitch...) but I am unsure whether I would bump up against the 128-step limit of standard MIDI messages.

The Code uses endless encoders which I believe can send both absolute values and incremental/decremental ones. If I used increments with very low values (when used with a modifier, for example) would I be able to emulate the action of higher resolution devices? I am guessing I could but I can't be certain. Would the endless encoders give me fine control?

I also spotted a Monome knobby thing (http://goo.gl/w0tOo) which they allege is high resolution and might pair well with the MIDI Fighter. It looks interesting. The only problem is it uses OSC. It also seems very expensive for two, admittedly stylish, encoders stuck in a piece of wood. Does it offer any tangible benefits over the Code?

Any suggestions or advice would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks

I have a Livid Instruments Ohm64 and the editor for this is makes their units really quite customiseable.
Ask a question on the Livid Instruments forum, they are really very supportive of thier products (they have made custom chages to their software for me in the past), it is possible to flash the unit itself and completely change its function:eek:.

**inov8** · 02-22-2011, 11:32 AM

Yeah , I've just been reading the software manual. Some great features. The addition of fast and slow blinking LED feedback is very appealing. I'll ask the same question on the Livid forum but it's less about Code and more about the way that Traktor handles the input from endless encoders.

The Ohm64 looks sweet. I'm guessing it has pots rather than encoders, though? How does it compare to your VCM-600?