Go Back   dj forums - The Worldwide DJ Community > Equipment > Digital DJing Tools
Register News Reviews Tutorials Articles FaderwaveRadio FAQ Mark Forums Read

Closed Thread
 
Thread Tools
Old 12-20-08, 11:06 AM   #1
Stripe
Its the ban chainsaw
 
Stripe's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2002
Location: NY
Posts: 17,713
Track: Mastiksoul - Jacobino
Stripe has a brilliant futureStripe has a brilliant futureStripe has a brilliant futureStripe has a brilliant futureStripe has a brilliant futureStripe has a brilliant futureStripe has a brilliant futureStripe has a brilliant futureStripe has a brilliant futureStripe has a brilliant futureStripe has a brilliant future
Send a message via AIM to Stripe
Post "Design Me" Contest



What is "design me"?
"Design me" is where users outline their ideal controller, going into as much detail as possible. They need to describe not only what kind of controls are on it, but also how it will work, what apps it’s designed for, any new technologies are involved, etc. Entries should be based on currently available technology.

Users are allowed one post for their entry (one entry per person). No editing posts after 10 minutes. Any media can be used to illustrate their design. The more complete the post, the better.

Entries to be posted: In this thread.

Discussion Thread: Here

Contest Timeline;
Entries period is for 1 week Monday December 22 - 11:59PM EST Monday December 29th.

The voting polls of the entries will be open on Tuesday December 30th for 7 days. Vote for the best design.

The top 3 finalists will move on to the final voting round. The final round will have 3 days for voting. In the event of a tie, the winner will be chosen by Stanton.


Now onto the prizes;

1st place winner wins 2 SCS.3ds.
2nd place winner gets an Uberstand.
3rd place gets a pair of headphones.


www.stantondj.com




Here is an example of an entry:
Quote:
Originally Posted by example
nem0nic’s MIDIMASTER 3000


Basic MIDI controller has an angled back to make it easier to read and adjust in the booth. Faders are 100mm faders. Next to the faders is a traditional mousepad. Unit connects to the computer using standard USB and shows up as an HID. Buttons next to the faders can be used for clip triggering, cue, mutes, etc. Knobs at the top of each channel strip can be either traditional 3 CH EQ + GAIN, or 4 CH EQ (Traktor Xone). Buttons next to the knobs in the channel strips can be used as EQ kills, additional clip triggers, etc. Buttons are 2 color back lit and respond to MIDI feedback. On the top right is the “effects section”. LCD display responds to MIDI feedback and shows the value of the 3 knobs below. This is also where other data from the unit is displayed (firmware flashing status, etc). The 3 knobs below the effects knobs can be mapped to main volume, cue volume, and cue mix.
This area is for entries only. If you want to comment, please use the discussion thread. Once the poll is up after the entry time people can comment there.
__________________

You can light your torches and don your aluminum hats till the cows come home, but all the talk and bitching on the internet is worthless" - J

[url="http://soundcloud.com/stripe/stripe-summer-time"]New Summer vibes mix/URL] - Thursdays on Faderwave - myspace - House-Mixes.com -
Stripe is offline   Back to Top.
   
Sponsors
Old 12-22-08, 06:11 PM   #2
DJ_Progrezz
Bedroom DJ
 
DJ_Progrezz's Avatar
 
Join Date: Dec 2007
Location: Belgium
Posts: 387
Track: It's A Body Thang, A Soul Thang...
DJ_Progrezz is on a distinguished roadDJ_Progrezz is on a distinguished road
Send a message via AIM to DJ_Progrezz Send a message via MSN to DJ_Progrezz
DJ_Progrezz is offline   Back to Top.
Old 12-22-08, 09:23 PM   #3
sdrwkcb
 
sdrwkcb's Avatar
 
Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: ╬
Posts: 2,726
Track: ╬
sdrwkcb has much to be proud ofsdrwkcb has much to be proud ofsdrwkcb has much to be proud ofsdrwkcb has much to be proud ofsdrwkcb has much to be proud ofsdrwkcb has much to be proud ofsdrwkcb has much to be proud ofsdrwkcb has much to be proud ofsdrwkcb has much to be proud ofsdrwkcb has much to be proud ofsdrwkcb has much to be proud of
Well, here goes nothing!

The Xone 4D represents what I would say is the best midi controller at the moment. For the record, I’m a Traktor scratch DJ. The fact that the Xone 4D has almost everything I could possibly want is another great thing, and the fact that it’s an all in one makes it all the more hotter. However, there are a few problems with it. First off, there’s really no “control surface” on there. Sure, there are the little buttons on it but honestly I would need those for selecting effects and turning filters on and off. What I really need is a mixer, a Xone 1D, and a trigger finger like surface, maybe a few more buttons and knobs for good measure… An ideal all in one with some extras incase I ever needed them for something else. I’ll try drawing it but what I want to convey because my paint skills suck is this:

·
Unit must be an all in one. Good sound card + everything that makes a good mixer is ESSENTIAL.

·
Needs to have a control surface/pad, 16 buttons would be more than perfect for four deck mixing/ live remixing.

·
Must have a way to select between multiple effects

·
Extra buttons/knobs are always great to have.

·
The mixer should be at a minimum 4 channels. 5 would be perfect though.







I know the drawing sucks. On the left is obviously the “trigger finger” like control surface. Any sort of LED feedback would be insanely sexy and very useful for Ableton. On the top of that section would be four rotaries with built in buttons. (as in, you push the button and it sends a midi signal) On the bottom are 4 simple buttons. On/off LEDS would be useful as well.

On top of the mixer section is the middle Midi section: 8 buttons with four linear faders underneath, with four rotary push able knobs on top, with four simple knobs under that. Directly under that would be something close to the Stanton SCS.3d; a touch pad would be what the yellow resembles, and the brown would be the touchable linear section. If this section was a standalone MIDI controller I would buy it with no second thoughts.

On the right would be pretty much what the Xone 1D has. Not original, but they made something great. I would be fine with this section being, oh… Stanton SCS 3D “like” as in "touchable" with additional physical knobs. I really like the rotary on/off knobs, throw 4 on there and a few more regular knobs and it’s all good. A jog wheel is essential here for looking through tracks and selecting them and what not. (blue circle) If you just took a stanton SCS 3d and threw a couple of extra knobs and buttons on it it would work.

Note: All knobs should be the type that have a physical start and end. Don't know the technical name, but the ones where there's a 0% and a 100%, not a negative infinity to positive infinity... The red circles with some black shit on them would be the knob/buttons. Regular red is a regular knob. Grey signifies a button. I hope it makes sense

I left out the mixer since there’s nothing original or new about what I would want. 4-5 channels, cross fader, full kills, 3 EQ, blah blah. I don’t feel the need for any screens or anything like that since the computer should be in my face. Another important thing about this is it should be reasonably priced. I feel that 2 thousand or less would be perfect. The problem with the 4D and the JazzMutant is price.

Yes, I realize that this is total overkill. Yeah, I admit I was drawing and doing this while watching a movie. I’m doing this in hope that everyone after me will do better
sdrwkcb is offline   Back to Top.
Old 12-23-08, 03:20 AM   #4
JPspecial
Resident DJ
 
JPspecial's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2005
Location: Chicago
Posts: 1,786
Track: .
JPspecial will become famous soon enoughJPspecial will become famous soon enoughJPspecial will become famous soon enough
Send a message via AIM to JPspecial Send a message via Skype™ to JPspecial
Alriight this is what I have..

First of all I would like to mention that my knowledge in what MIDI is and what it can do is very limited.. so i most definitely didn't take a lot of advantage on all the possibilities of MIDI. And second, I mostly scratch, and don't mix a whole lot, so I'm pretty clueless on what kind of features are useful for most mix DJ's. In fact, I'm not sure if any of you will find the features on my design interesting or useful and I'm not quite sure if this even qualifies as a MIDI controller..?.. . This is just my take on a scratch mixer with a little bit of MIDI capabilities to make things more to my liking. I call it the DSM(Digital Scratch Mixer)-1...


so here we go.
-----------------------









The DSM-1 is a 2 channel scratch mixer with a built-in firewire card, much like the Mackie D.2.Pro. The firewire interface allows it to plug direct into a computer and control softwares like TORQ. I don't like having to look at the computer screen while mixing, so most of the functions are aimed towards giving you the ability to keep on mixing without having to deal with the computer at all...

The faders are non-contact fades with full curve adjust and reverse switches(controls are on the front of the mixer), as well as tension adjust and cut-in adjust(only for the crossfader). All of the controls are accessible without having to open up the mixer. A little twist here is that the fader has a MIDI sensor(or however MIDI works.. i really don't have a clue) so TORQ knows the position of the fader. What this (should) allow is to have post-fader effects without the need to route the effects through the fx loop section of the mixer.

The short faders above the line faders are transform switches, but in a fader form. They are only for on/off cuts and the curve cannot be adjusted. What this allows is to have dedicated "cutting" line faders and "fading" line faders. Sometimes I like to use the line faders for cutting, and sometimes for fading, so I always thought having 2 sets of line faders per channel would be convenient (for me, at least..) since it eliminates the need to adjust the curve all the time.

The square buttons next to the "transform faders" are switches to turn on/off effects. above the transform faders are regular pan faders. the small section on the left above the pan faders is the MIC/3rd channel. it has a gain knob, 3-band eq (+-15db) and a switch to send the signal to the headphones. On the right hand is the cue section with a fader to fade between channel 1 and 2, a gain knob, a cue/master toggle switch and headphone mute switch.

The square buttons above are switches to activate the "Quick Scratch" feature on TORQ. the little switches next to them let you scroll between all the scratch samples you have loaded onto the quick scratch section of TORQ.

Above that is a 3-band eq (+10 - -30db.. ish). the switch in between is a channel reverse switch. above the eq's are gain knobs.

The screen is primarily used for selecting tracks and assigning them to channels. It also displays which sample you selected when Quick Scratch is activated. The scroll wheel next to it lets you scroll through tracks, and once you have the track you want, you simply press the orange button above channel 1 or 2 to assign the track to that channel. The little switch above the wheel lets you select how you want the track organized (i.e. by name, artist, BPM, etc, etc.). The switches above the screen are phono/line selectors and the knobs are for the master and booth out.

The input connectors on the back are angled upwards and output connectors are normal. This is just to minimize confusion.. because I always get confused.. It will have standard in/outs, as well as whatever connectors are required for MIDI.

one last thing is that it has "feets" on each corner, which allows you to adjust the height of the mixer to your liking.

EDIT: re-sized images and made small additions to the description.

Last edited by JPspecial : 12-23-08 at 07:14 PM.
JPspecial is online now   Back to Top.
Old 12-23-08, 08:43 AM   #5
neks
Resident DJ
 
neks's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jun 2008
Location: SA-TX
Posts: 1,343
Track: DJ Exile & DJ Day - A Day In Exile
neks is just really niceneks is just really niceneks is just really niceneks is just really niceneks is just really niceneks is just really nice
I thought I might think of something then I saw jpspecial post and I don't feel like it anymore
awesome work on the 3d model dude...
__________________
Quote:
Originally Posted by John Galt View Post
hey djz, you did something stupid again.
neks is online now   Back to Top.
Old 12-23-08, 08:50 AM   #6
just.pete
Elite DJ
 
just.pete's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jan 2004
Location: Old Orleans
Posts: 4,056
Track: double exposure
just.pete has much to be proud ofjust.pete has much to be proud ofjust.pete has much to be proud ofjust.pete has much to be proud ofjust.pete has much to be proud ofjust.pete has much to be proud ofjust.pete has much to be proud ofjust.pete has much to be proud ofjust.pete has much to be proud ofjust.pete has much to be proud ofjust.pete has much to be proud of
Presenting the "MIDI-CENT" - a midi controller for the future marketed at DJs who enjoy the "street" lifestyle.
This is the first in a line of devices which uses the modern form of using system-names that all DJs think are rediculous. This line is called Post-Intuitive-Mixing-Pete-Stylee or P.I.M.P.S.

The innovation in this piece is the integration with the laptop, the DJ and the software.

First up - this controller sits on top of a closed laptop with suckers. So how do you see your screen? Easy - flip open the MIDICENT and it works as a propietary laptop screen. A laptop screen that is high brightness and anti-glare - perfect for club use. There's a HD monitor port on the back. Keeping your expensive Macbookpro minty fresh.
But it doesn't stop at that. Sure you may want to see Serato or Ableton - but what if you want to see full screen VST plugins as well - and run video mixing?
No problem! Just pull out two propietary screens hidden behind screen 1 with a sliding mechanism, extending the screen space 300%. This innovation is called Propietary-Overview-Relay-Nexus, or P.O.R.N. for short.

Of course it has an awesome soundcard built in. RCA and XLR outs. Plus MIDI-OUT/IN and 3 USB ports as well.


The control surface is covered with everything the DJ needs to control all software.
10 faders. All Innofaders.
16 touch sensitive pads.
4 overview buttons.
40 infinitely rotatable pots with push-in function. All from milled aircraft aluminium.
1 large backlit LCD screen X/Y pad. Works like an XY pad, looks like an Iphone screen, multitouch.
1 huge inlayed backlit LCD touch sensitive ribbon fader. Smoother than smooth for any mixes.
2 Independant headphone output.

This gives ultimate control for the DJ. Any software can be catered for. This system is called Haptic-Orientated-Ergonomic-System. Or H.O.E.S. for short.

Then the last thing is the software integration. The buttons can be mapped to any software easily, so you never need to open the laptop ever. I won't go into how this all works because its too complicated for the human brain. Its almost psychic in the way it works, you want it - its there. This system is called Accurate-Software-Syncronisation or A.S.S. for short.

So next time you are being a MIDI-DJ and someone comes up to you with questions - your answers are already prepared:

- "What system is that?"
- "That's the PIMPS' system"

- "Why are you looking at the screen intently?"
- "I am looking at PORN."

- "Why are you pressing that button?"
- "I am just touching my HOES"

- "Why, with all this technology, is nobody dancing?"
- "Because it sounds like ASS"

REAR

SIDE

FRONT
__________________
mixes
live


Last edited by just.pete : 12-23-08 at 04:36 PM.
just.pete is offline   Back to Top.
Old 12-23-08, 12:04 PM   #7
evisonjames
Bedroom DJ
 
evisonjames's Avatar
 
Join Date: Dec 2008
Location: Ontario
Posts: 449
Track: Handguns - Alex Gopher remix
evisonjames has a little shameless behaviour in the past
alright so this is my idea. to me it seems like a xone 3d/4d on steroids.



top 2 screens are for trakor, between them are effects and on off button for each channel, then a button to send it to whatever output channel you want (1 THRU 4)

the four buttons under each screen are cue buttons (cue, cup, yadayada), then the midi clock for going between live and trakor to stay in sync.

next on the left side we hit the assignable stuff! primarly for live.
7 endless encoders, 4 linear faders, and a tap tempo section, and on the far right 9 vel-sens pads.

in the middle is a touch screen which has 4 different assignable EQs, one could be a parametric eq, one could be a lf/hf/bf, or whatever you want. up to five of them!

bottom left is a jog wheel assignable to live or trackor (and even what part, - ie song or clip)

bottom middle is the mixer part 4 channels, (i didnt bother putting in all the standard stuff like cues and such or xfader curve type, but its all there!)

and finally bottom right is a trackpad that you can assign to be a mouse or XY midi controller, again assignable to eitehr traktor, live, and if the device is class A compliant, it could be a mouse for OSx too

as for the device itself, it would connect through usb, as well as have a 2 port usb built into it (one for a keyboard or something, or a midi keyboard)

4 stereo ins, and out on the channels, bal and un bal outs for master and booth. optical/spdif in out. midi in out/thru and 2 stereo fx sends.

hope you can see eveyrthing there ahaha
__________________
FRR333$$$$HHHH!
evisonjames is offline   Back to Top.
Old 12-23-08, 05:43 PM   #8
djpenguin
Club DJ
 
djpenguin's Avatar
 
Join Date: Sep 2008
Location: Eugene, OR
Posts: 980
Track: Into Another (Moguai Mix)
djpenguin is a jewel in the roughdjpenguin is a jewel in the roughdjpenguin is a jewel in the roughdjpenguin is a jewel in the roughdjpenguin is a jewel in the rough
Here's my idea/entry. Please forgive the crappy pictures, I'm not a graphic artist of any sort.

My idea is for a series of ultra-small USB HID/MIDI controllers. Each one would have a micro-USB connector on one narrow end, and a magnetic connector (similar to the power connection on the Macbook line) on one long side with a matching socket on the other long side so that these tiny controllers can be combined together to form a larger controller. The interconnection could be accomplished with USB hub electronics, or perhaps some sort of proprietary interconnect.

Designed to control any DJing/performance app that can accept MIDI or USB HID input, these tiny controllers could be attached via velcro or two-sided tape to bare spots on mixers, turntables, road cases, and all sorts of existing DJ/live performance gear to add a few more buttons, knobs or sliders to any rig.




The unit on top has five rubber buttons, for triggering loops, cue points, or whatever else. The buttons are about 3/4" square, kind of like little drum pads or large calculator buttons.

The unit on the bottom of this picture has four rotary controls. Two different models could be built, one with endless encoders, and one with standard rotary pots.



This unit has a 60mm short-body fader.

Ideally, the minimal amount of materials involved in any one unit combined with the number of common parts used would allow these to be sold very cheaply, say $20-30 each. The units I've pictured here are just the beginning, later units could include a touch-sensitive strip, a VFD display, buttons that light up with feedback from the app, etc.
__________________
If you're not jockeying discs, you are not a Disc Jockey.
mixes: new psytrance | old psytrance

Last edited by djpenguin : 12-23-08 at 05:49 PM.
djpenguin is offline   Back to Top.
Old 12-23-08, 09:51 PM   #9
JPspecial
Resident DJ
 
JPspecial's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2005
Location: Chicago
Posts: 1,786
Track: .
JPspecial will become famous soon enoughJPspecial will become famous soon enoughJPspecial will become famous soon enough
Send a message via AIM to JPspecial Send a message via Skype™ to JPspecial
Quote:
Originally Posted by neks View Post
I thought I might think of something then I saw jpspecial post and I don't feel like it anymore
awesome work on the 3d model dude...
haha, thanks. but i think the idea is more important than fancy visuals! you should give it a shot if you got any cool ideas

i just realized i wasn't allowed to edit the post after 10 minutes. all i did was correct some small grammar errors and mentioned the function of a small switch which i forgot to explain earlier.. i hope that was ok?
JPspecial is online now   Back to Top.
Old 12-23-08, 10:56 PM   #10
foxmerquise8
Bedroom DJ
 
Join Date: Jan 2005
Posts: 239
Track: Jadakiss - Shootouts
foxmerquise8 is an unknown quantity at this point
I don’t have any pictures because I’m running on a 56k connection and it would be difficult to load anything up. Here my design.

The Control Surface - The Midi Controller

The Premise - This is a very high-end midi controller that is simply a complete touch-screen. All midi controls are made by hitting the touch screen. There are no knobs, sliders, or plastic buttons. It is just a touch screen. The design is very sleek. It is thin and can be laid flat on table. It would be a little under a square foot in size, although there could be a Control Surface Mini, that offers less space. This of course would limit the number of controls you could fit on the touch screen, but this is the tradeoff.

Imagine a relatively large square IPOD touch screen, laid flat next to your computer or turntable. It may need a separate power source if the USB is deemed too small, but I doubt it. The connection inputs and outputs will be put all on one side. This side will be slightly larger than the other three.

Objective - To provide a very powerful, and flexible midi controller for production, laptop djing, and live remixing. This means compatibility with Ableton Live, Serato Scratch Live, and similar programs. It will not be used for rigorous midi input such as the type used on keyboards and drum pads. This is more for precision control and mixing.

How it works - When you first hook up the Control Surface, it’s a screen overlay will display 16 pad sized squares and a few digital representations of sliders. Its setup would be similar to any other pad based midi-controller on the market. The genius of the Control Surface is that you can program it to display as many sliders or buttons as you want. You no longer have to search for a controller with that perfect balance of features. You can create your own setup.

Let me give you an example. Say you want 24 pads instead 16 pads so you can trigger more samples in Ableton. You can just go into the setup menu and create new pads and new squares will appear on screen. You can even configure the size so you could have two really big blocks that take up screen or a whole myriad of buttons like the monome for those really big projects. You can even move the pads about. You can have them all concentrated in the middle with sliders flanking the edges or vice-versa. For those weary of the impreciseness of a touch screen you design your setup so there are only a few buttons on screen at a time and then cycle to other button setups when you need to access them. All of these setups can be saved, named, and accessed at will.

This will work with a program like Ableton because all of the buttons will still correspond to a single signature, like C4 or D5. Their difference is that you can place this button anywhere.

Sliders will work similarly. You can put as many as you want on the screen wherever you want. If you don’t want to mistakenly move a slider while doing something else you can set a lock on it in which you have to tap it 2 or 3 times to be able to use it. Knobs in their original sense will not be displayed. Instead you will have a small matrix block for each knob setup. You simply run your finger in a semi-circle line to effect the change. You can even setup digital kill switches if you like.

Because it is digital you can add whatever effects you like. You would even be able to download updates or effect packets. This way you don’t have to run out the door to buy each new midi controller that comes out with a new feature.

The start-up price made be expensive, but it would be much cheaper in the long run. The technology is there. We see it in the new ipod, blackberry, and hp touch screen computers. It can be built sturdy. Obviously, there is no contact with real faders and knobs, and some may not like that, but this will solve those midi controller decisions for everyone else. This is not the end-all or be-all.
foxmerquise8 is offline   Back to Top.
Old 12-24-08, 01:40 AM   #11
D-Jam
Elite DJ
 
D-Jam's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2004
Location: Chicago, IL
Posts: 3,425
Track: Anything I like.
D-Jam is a glorious beacon of lightD-Jam is a glorious beacon of lightD-Jam is a glorious beacon of lightD-Jam is a glorious beacon of lightD-Jam is a glorious beacon of lightD-Jam is a glorious beacon of lightD-Jam is a glorious beacon of light
Send a message via AIM to D-Jam Send a message via Yahoo to D-Jam
When I started thinking about my idea for the ideal midi control, my logic more or less went on my own personal needs, but also that of the untapped market.

Why does someone buy a digital vinyl system like Torq, Serato, or Traktor Pro? They buy it because they WANT to DJ using the same techniques as they have seen DJs of the past use. You couldn’t ask someone like Grandmaster Flash or DJ AM to give up rotating decks, scratching, and tricking for a small midi control with two small platters and a built-in mixer. Some performers like Hawtin gladly gave it up, but many others won’t. I see it in most of the DJs who purchased Torq and Serato especially. It’s why we see posts about the best turntables and needles to get…rather than what midi control they should get to do it all on.

With that in mind, I look at the vast amount of midi controls made for DJs in the past year or so, and they all point at the idea of giving up the timecode vinyls or CDs, of giving up the turntables or CDJs. Not one of these controls really reached out to DJs like myself. DJs who WANT to use CDJs or turntables with the timecode, but would like a controller for all the other functions on our respective programs of choice.

With that, I unveil my idea for a midi control. A controller built for the DJ who wants to use turntables or CDJs, but would like a companion for other functions.



At first glance, this somewhat looks like Stanton made a drum pad control like the Akai or M-Audio Trigger Finger. In reality, I see it more as taking out all the useless bright lights, bells, and whistles from the SCS.3d and instead creating a control a DJ could use to control the effects, VSTs, samplers, quick cues, and other things one normally uses a mouse for. I even felt the functions of the mouse would be well suited to have on this control, thus a DJ wouldn’t have to keep reaching up to wherever he mounted his laptop.

The unit would measure 9 inches in width and 14 inches in length. That’s about the same length as a CDJ, 1200, or most mixers, so this would work nicely on a setup as an added piece, rather than an awkward sized thing one has to make space for.

The setup uses drum pads similar to the kind found on Akai controls, it’s six sets of groupings of two pads and four knobs. I looked deeply at the setups and configurations of Torq, Traktor, and Serato, and figured the best means to control the non-turntable parts would be with this configuration. I know if one wanted to set up effects on Torq to a grouping, you have the two buttons and two knobs needed. On Traktor it’s similar, only they would need the four knobs in a grouping.

The config buttons up top are similar to the presets ideology in most midi controls. These buttons would light up when pressed, thus showing the DJ which configuration he’s on. The beauty of this is that a DJ can then set up this control to handle multiple scenarios at one time. So in my case with Torq, I could set up the six sets of buttons and knobs to control the six effects slots (3 on each side) and have it as Config A. Then on Config B, I could put in the 10 keys needed for quick cues and even two more for quick scratches on all the buttons. The same could be done for Serato users as well. On Config C I could set it all up for the sampler. A Traktor user could set up all four Configs to do different things for the four turntables. The sky is the limit.

The touch pad is the bigger desire that I would want, and I’ve seen many want based on examples and entries. This touch pad does exactly what the pad and buttons do on a laptop, thus allowing the DJ to drag and drop tracks from the control, as opposed to reaching for the laptop. The two “Control” buttons came to mind when I use the Shift key to do certain things in Torq. I imagine Serato and Traktor also have functions that one needs to press a key like Shift, Apple, or Ctrl. The user could configure the included software to designate those buttons to do one or more keyboard functions. So I could have it that when I press Control A, the software tells my computer I’m pressing and holding the Shift key, or just clicking it. Then I can easily fix that BPM or beatgrid from the control. That or I can set those buttons to do other things if I choose, like fire off something in the program. A Traktor user could even have those buttons turn on and off the effects on a deck if he wanted. Again, the sky is the limit.

Finally, one other big idea that many might like is the possibility that the Touch Pad could also act as an Effects Pad, similar to a Kaos Pad. Maybe someone has a VST that works like that and wants to easily control it from the touch pad. Simply press the “Effects Pad” button and it will do it based on how the included software is configured. When he wants to use it as the mouse again, simply press the “Touch Pad” button. All four buttons around the touch pad will light up if pressed.

I think DaScratch was a great idea, but the true necessity of such a control was lost in the quest for bright lights, cool touch technology, and shiny toys. Frankly, if I want to be able to control the decks with my controller, I’ll buy a VCI-100, or an Xponent, or an SCS.1d, or a Xone 1D. With all the controls out there, no one has really thought about the DJ who doesn’t want to control their decks with midi, and I believe this control is the answer. It gives versatility to the DJ to configure things as they see fit, and yet allows the consumer to use their software product the way they wanted to.

Maybe this controller could be tweaked to be more “shiny” or “brightly lit” or some kind of “coolness factor” the way DaScratch was designed, but I personally think the coolness factor is more when the DJ can easily pull off more tricks with his midi control and not have his life overcomplicated. The timecode-using DJs are not old relics clinging on to the past, but the untapped market that the midi control industry hasn’t fully reached out to.
__________________
My uber-cool signature.
D-Jam is offline   Back to Top.
Old 12-24-08, 01:51 AM   #12
NIXON
Club DJ
 
NIXON's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2008
Location: Chicago
Posts: 697
Track: DJ Technic-The List
NIXON will become famous soon enoughNIXON will become famous soon enoughNIXON will become famous soon enough
Ok I've got an idea
there will be a flat clear plastic conveyer pulled by two motors on either end. In the middle there will be a long simple screen. Nearby will be a few buttons and a pitch slide for the motors. One of the button will flash and allow you to tap in the bpm. Once the bpm is programed in the screen will display a series of bars representing the beats marching down it. It will look kinda like a simplified wave form from traktor but with only the beat markers on it. By adjusting the pitch of the and physically manipulating the conveyer you can move the track around. This will probably be kinda expensive but, It seems like direct waveform manipulation is the future and it has a the conveyer so it would still provide djs with the physical sensation
we like

Basically a conveyer just makes more sense than rotating disc as a controller of song position because every point on the conveyer is moving at the same speed as opposed to a disc where the interior is moving much faster than the exterior

more detail and pics later
__________________
Quote:
Originally Posted by D-Jam View Post
I have nothing to say.
Mix I want comments on
NEW Track I want comments on

Last edited by NIXON : 12-24-08 at 02:12 AM.
NIXON is offline   Back to Top.
Old 12-24-08, 10:17 AM   #13
Stripe
Its the ban chainsaw
 
Stripe's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2002
Location: NY
Posts: 17,713
Track: Mastiksoul - Jacobino
Stripe has a brilliant futureStripe has a brilliant futureStripe has a brilliant futureStripe has a brilliant futureStripe has a brilliant futureStripe has a brilliant futureStripe has a brilliant futureStripe has a brilliant futureStripe has a brilliant futureStripe has a brilliant futureStripe has a brilliant future
Send a message via AIM to Stripe
Please, no comments in this thread. This thread is for entry posts only. Comments can be made once the voting starts.

Nixon, please read the rules. When posting an entry there is only a short period for editing the entry.
__________________

You can light your torches and don your aluminum hats till the cows come home, but all the talk and bitching on the internet is worthless" - J

[url="http://soundcloud.com/stripe/stripe-summer-time"]New Summer vibes mix/URL] - Thursdays on Faderwave - myspace - House-Mixes.com -
Stripe is offline   Back to Top.
Old 12-24-08, 06:58 PM   #14
DJ Wi Fi
Bedroom DJ
 
DJ Wi Fi's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2008
Location: On-tear-e-o, Canuck-ada
Posts: 461
Track: Basement Track- High Contrast
DJ Wi Fi is on a distinguished road
Stanton M.300

This MIDI controller is a combination drum-pad, digital music controller and effects unit.



The product is meant to be affordable and very versatile. It can be used in conjunction with any DVS, or (like CDJs) be used with USB devices (MP3 players, external HDDs, etc.).

Using a touch sensitive screen (see I) to control and scroll through music and effects, the compact simplistic style makes it easy to know what you're doing (drum pads can be used as direction pads, lit up via LED lights).

The unit also has a revolving 7" platter that fits any old 45rpm record for as real as it gets vinyl feel (custom slipmat included).

I guess anyone can see that there is a lot of potential in such a simplistic and versatile device.





A- Revolving control platter
B- Screen to show BPM, Pitch %, Key, and time. Switch by touching.
C- Pitch control
D- Crossfader
E- Assignable fader
F- Assignable fader
G- Assignable fader
H- Drum/Sample pads
I- Touch screen to scroll through music/pad samples/effects
J- Knobs to control effects and frequencies (i.e equalizer)
K- Crossfader controller (for sharp cuts into sharp fades)
L- USB 2.0 input
M- Power plug/switch
N- Audio output
O- MIDI In/Out
P- 1/4 Inch headphone jack



Sorry for the excessively translucent touch screen (I'm not a great 3D modeler)

I hope everyone enjoys ; )
DJ Wi Fi is offline   Back to Top.
Old 12-25-08, 02:59 AM   #15
robotkillshuman
Beginner DJ
 
robotkillshuman's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2007
Location: bc, canada
Posts: 58
Track: dubstep
robotkillshuman is an unknown quantity at this point
Iv always felt that user customization is the best way to make everyone happy. So I would love to see something like this.



My MIDI controller works like this. The main board of the controller comes as a blank slate, the surface is completely up to the user to create. The main board will come in different sizes to fit the users needs. My example uses a 8x6 (48 blocks) but the unit could really be as big or small as is needed. The top of the board will open up and the blocks will slide in via a rail system, the rails will also hold the pieces to the back of the board and be used for the internal circuits to connect. Now the blocks will come in a variety of faders, knobs, buttons, pads, and jog wheels. The faders can be placed on there side to create crossfaders as well. It can be a beat pad, a mixer, a dvs controller... the possibility's are endless.

Example blocks :

robotkillshuman is offline   Back to Top.
Old 12-25-08, 07:15 AM   #16
Cheap Charley
lesser of two evils is still evil
 
Cheap Charley's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2006
Location: Nebraska, USA
Posts: 3,476
Track: Looking For The Perfect Beat
Cheap Charley is a name known to allCheap Charley is a name known to allCheap Charley is a name known to allCheap Charley is a name known to allCheap Charley is a name known to allCheap Charley is a name known to allCheap Charley is a name known to allCheap Charley is a name known to allCheap Charley is a name known to all
Quote:
Originally Posted by just.pete View Post
First up - this controller sits on top of a closed laptop with suckers. So how do you see your screen? Easy - flip open the MIDICENT and it works as a propietary laptop screen. A laptop screen that is high brightness and anti-glare - perfect for club use. There's a HD monitor port on the back. Keeping your expensive Macbookpro minty fresh.
Laptops are getting cheaper & cheaper every year. DJ equipment on the other hand seems to be on a race to see who can charge the most for their equipment..

Since whatever gets built will probably be as insanely over priced as a Pioneer CDJ or Technics turntable, why not just eliminate the laptop?

Call it a hybrid-midi controller or whatever, a midi controller with a built in computer & a collapsible full size monitor.

Just test run it long enough to make sure it has all the controls needed to run the most popular DJ aps.

Myself personally I would have the drum pads on the left, a 4 or 5 channel mixer in the middle & the other stuff on the right, like Kudomonster has pictured, plus a full length collapsible 2 or 3 screen monitor.



Hooks up traditionally; vinyl coded turntables, CD coded CD players and/or midi scratch wheels.

A built in computer CD reader so you can install software. A keyboard jack & an internet jack (for updating software), USB jacks, midi jacks, RCA jacks & anything else needed for hook ups.

Last edited by Cheap Charley : 12-27-08 at 09:13 AM.
Cheap Charley is offline   Back to Top.
Old 12-26-08, 10:41 AM   #17
normalson
Bedroom DJ
 
Join Date: May 2008
Location: wi
Posts: 349
Track: whatever makes dance
normalson is an unknown quantity at this point
here's my design, i present the normalcontroll:




first let me add this is designed to be used along with an external mixer but it is flexible enough to be used as a stand alone unit.

let me describe what each part does:
the 18 X 18 matrix of LEDs is touch sensitive and like the dascratch there would be different modes and the led touch areas colors would change design depending on mode. for example if you were in touchpad sample mood, each trigger pad would be made up of 9 LED matrix for a total of 36 trigger pads. If the LED area was in volume control the LED colors would change to reflect columns which could be touched up or down to raise or lower volume. Ideally, the LED area would also be able to switch modes to either control deck a, control deck b or control both. when it is controlling both for say eqs for example, the LED area would be divided in half so that changes could be made on both decks at the same time. The LED area would also go into an fx mode where the whole thing would act as a koass pad in single deck mode, or act as 2 smaller koass pads in two deck mode or act as 4 even smaller koass pads in 4 deck mode. There would also be a mode that would turn a section of the LED matrix into a crossfader in case the unit was being used without an external mixer. With custom programming the LED area could do just about whatever the user wanted it to.

The idea would be based roughly on this:http://createdigitalmusic.com/2008/0...ch-controller/
and this together: http://www.styletraxx.com/tenori.jpg

the six large rotary mixer style and size knobs would be there to give the dj physical knobs for fine tuning and to add redundancy to the controller. one of the project goals of this controller is having multiple methods of controlling midi actions. for example the first knob may control the volume of deck a but you could also control the volume of deck a in the LED matrix volume mode.

the jogwheel in the upper righthand corner would have an ultra smooth bearing and would spin very smoothly with little friction. this wheel would have multiple modes as well. It would scroll through playlists, it would scrub through a selected song, it would act as a fine tune pitch control and also nudge the tempo up or down to get beats lined up. users could also program it to control the amount of fk wet/dry or even to scroll through the LED matrix modes. The four smaller Leds above the sliders would tell what mode the jogwheel was in.

The six sliders might seem redundant given there would be touch LED sliders but once again the key is having multiple ways of doing things. This would be handy if say you have the LED matrix in crossfader mode and you needed to adjust the eq without having to switch the matrix mode. Users could program these to whatever they wanted and would be handy to use as smart knobs.

The six pads below the sliders would act like traditional midi pads, sampling triggers, turning on/off effects, play/pause/cue etc. each pad would have a two color LED that would light up depending on what mode the pad was in. these pads would also act as midi modifiers so that when you pressed a pad and then for example moved the first slider on the left, it would control something different then just the slider alone. this would increase the number of possible ways a dj could control different actions.

The six smaller LEDs below the pads would show the user what mode the matrix was in, and also what deck mode the controller was in; deck a control, deck b control and dual deck control. The knob next to those little LEDs would select what mode the LED matrix was in. The trigger pad above this knob would control deck mode.

I like having the soundcard be user selectable so this would just be a midi in/out device with both midi in and out and a usb connection.

The normalcontroll would have software similar to the darouter, or the eks midi agent that comes with the eks xp-5 and xp-10 so that users could easily change the parameters of each and every control. there would be a special section of the program that dealt with the LED matrix, that would guide the user on setting up the LED matrix to their uses. Presents would then be saved loaded automatically every time the controller is plugged in. Users would also be able to share their presents with their peers and exchange ideas moving the creativity further and further along.

Given the flexibility of the controller, it would work great with all dj software including, traktor, deckadance, virtual dj, ableton, mixvibes, etc. It could also be used in music production as well.

Thank you Stanton and DJforums for the chance to show off what my ideal controller would be.

normals

Last edited by normalson : 12-26-08 at 10:44 AM.
normalson is offline   Back to Top.
Old 12-26-08, 02:01 PM   #18
mark.simm
Design Me Contest Winner
 
mark.simm's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2005
Location: Cleveland, OH
Posts: 220
Track: anything funky
mark.simm is just really nicemark.simm is just really nicemark.simm is just really nicemark.simm is just really nicemark.simm is just really nicemark.simm is just really nice
Stanton RMM19

The Stanton RMM19 (Rack Mount Midi 19) is a 1 unit 19 inch rack mount midi controller designed with the working DJ in mind. Whether you're a club DJ looking to add a laptop to your setup, a mobile jock looking to ditch the cdjs or looking to add some digital control to your studio rack, the RMM19 gives you midi control right at your fingertips. No more moving away from the mixer to fool with your laptop. No more messing with a midi controller stacked on some other equipment in the cramped DJ booth. This controller is designed to easily fit in with your current setup. All you need is 1 unit of rack space!

The RMM19 is built not to be flashy or to combine as many different types of controllers into one impossible to operate unit. The controller is practical, built tough for day in/day out club use and one of the only of its kind. This unit speaks to the DJ that appreciates practicality and usefulness over flashy designs and gimmicky features. This unit is pure Stanton. Built like a tank, no frills and all business.



Features include:
8 led backlit buttons with on/off states (green/red)
8 endless pots
1 x/y touchpad
1 scroll wheel
simple usb connectivity
mark.simm is offline   Back to Top.
Old 12-27-08, 05:21 AM   #19
grooveWhiz
Beginner DJ
 
Join Date: Dec 2008
Location: Germany
Posts: 8
Track: Marvin Gaye – T Plays It Cool
grooveWhiz is an unknown quantity at this point
SMC (Stanton Modular Controller)

There is no perfect controller for everybody

therefore my concept:
1. uses a modular layout (can be adapted to your style/workflow)
2. allows you to work without ever touching the laptop
3. allows you to work without ever looking at the laptop
4. gives you all the controls you might need (user extendible)

In order to keep the construction process relatively simple I decided to use higher level components (opposed to low level components consisting of just one button/pad/LCD/...)

Besides modularity, feedback is the most important feature, therefore all buttons/pads are RGB backlit and you can optionally place an LCD strip next to them (for parameter labeling and current value display). And the huge touchscreen LCD touchscreen can be used to either display the complete UI of the application you control, or just those parts which are difficult to display on the LCD strips (i.e. filebrowser). As it's integrated into the controller, you won't look like checking your mails. And for VJ's, it can also be used as a video preview monitor. For now the LCD screen is single-touch, but once multi-touch displays become affordable, it will give you a build-in lemur.

Also, each component features RGB backlit buttons on each side. These are mainly intended to be used for admin tasks
(select presets, assign an LCD strip to a row of controls, ....)

Not included here, but there also should be an "user" component, which just supplies digital INs/OUTs, so people can hook up whatever sensor they like.

Such a complex controller with so much feedback screams for more flexible protocols than MIDI. >> Support of OSC OSC OSC in addition to MIDI. I like the idea of an intermediate application like daRouter, but would prefer a more graphical approach (something along the lines of: bidule, Max/MSP, pd, .... but with a much smaller toolset )


>> SMC (Stanton Modular Controller)
Notes: I didn't include the "base component" which controls/interfaces all the other components. See the last picture for an example configurations


The Components
A slideshow of all the components:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/groovewhiz/show/

At the end of this post is a zipped powerpoint file where you can construct your own combination and which shows you the actual size of the modules (set zoom level to 100%)



LCD Strip Component 36 cm x 1,5 cm
8 LCDs/OLEDs (sysex and OSC controllable )


Button Component 36 cm x 1,5 cm
8 RGB backlit buttons


Pad Component 36 cm x 3 cm
8 velocity sensitive and RGB backlit pads.


Crossfader Component 36 cm x 3 cm

High quality crossfader + 6 velocity sensitive and RGB backlit pads

Rotary Component 36 cm x 3 cm
8 Rotary controls with LED rings (optionally simpler version without LED rings)


Mixer Component (4 channels) 36 cm x 7.5 cm
4 non-motorized high-quality faders + a set of RGB backlit buttons (used for solo, mute, rec., …) for each fader.
(option for a motorized version)


Mixer Component (8 channels) 36 cm x 7.5 cm
8 non-motorized high-quality faders (option for a motorized version)


Touch Screen Component 36 cm x 18 cm
12" single or multi-touch LCD with displayPort and DVI connectors (+ USB in case of multi-touch version)





Optional Components lower priority

Touch Pads Component 36 cm x 7.5 cm
2 touchpads + 4 velocity sensitive and RGB backlit pads + 2 RGB backlit buttons


Turntable Component 36 cm x 31,5 cm
10 " platter + 9 velocity sensitive and RGB backlit buttons/pads



Example Config
Attached Files
File Type: zip SMC.zip (12.9 KB, 2 views)
grooveWhiz is offline   Back to Top.
Old 12-27-08, 05:38 PM   #20
DJGrooveStyle
Beginner DJ
 
DJGrooveStyle's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2007
Location: Nebraska
Posts: 96
Track: Feel Good
DJGrooveStyle is an unknown quantity at this point
I personally use a trigger finger with my setup. I also use a DVS system. The main problem I have with my controller is that I don’t use all of my sliders and knobs, and need just a few more pads to use everything I want to in my DVS system. Not only that, but I am required to memorize where all items on the controller are assigned and what they do.

DJ controllers must be flexible and fit the needs of each DJ. My controller will allow for as basic or elaborate of a controller as needed, with a display that will be easy to understand, no matter the situation.

Problem:
• Current Controllers do not have every part in use
• Current Controllers do not have enough of some components for a specific application
• Components do not offer visual feedback and require the DJ to refer back to their laptop

This is solved through:
• Modular plate and component design
• OLED displays on the components (Which is completely badass. Seriously, the chicks will be all over you)

Allowing for:
• Customization and versatility in the product
• Clear feedback during the performance
• “Growing room” within the product as the DJ expands their setup

You want your DJ-ing performance to be limited only by your creativity and not by your tools.

The midi controller I designed uses cutting edge OLED technology (as seen on optimus keyboards) and a “plate-construction” design connecting to a computer using a USB 2.0 port or firewire.

Wiki for OLED:
<http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Organic_light-emitting_diode>

The platform of the controller consists of 4” x 4” plates divided into quadrants. Each quadrant is divided into four secondary sections. These plates can each be joined together with magnetic connectors fitting between the plates, expanding the controller to whatever size is needed . Review the image below.



There is the usual array of pads, knobs, sliders, and buttons seen in most controllers,

But there is a twist


(Single Plate With Components and Connector)

You can place the items anywhere on the plates to fit the setup you desire for your system. You don’t want to memorize your setup, you need to create your music.

Therefore, to configure the displays:
• Press down the black configuration button on the plate
• Tap, turn, or slide the component until the proper interactive icon is displayed
• Release the configuration button, and the display will remain on the component

Icons can be transferred from your computer. These could come in online releases from companies or other users for specific programs. Icons from Torq are displayed on the pictures below.



(Single Plate Controller)


(Dual Plate Controller)


(Quad Plate Controller)

These are just a few examples of what could be built with this system of components. Many people have different styles when DJ-ing, and by allowing each user to customize their own controller from layout to size to appearance, it is an open-ended product. This allows them to expand and change their experience. It gives them a versatile tool that has all the parts where they need them. Also, as new integrations come about, such as touch screens or other user interfaces, different items could be attached to the plate(s).

This is my idea for my midi controller, and I really would like to see something like this. I would buy one in a heartbeat! Thank you for reading!


Features:
Modular design, everything you need in your setup
OLED technology for customization, clarity, and style
Knobs, buttons, pads, and sliders, giving the proper tactile feel and control you want
USB 2.0 connection or firewire
Streamlined design and capabilities allowing DJ’s to expand their control and be only limited by their creativity
DJGrooveStyle is offline   Back to Top.
Old 12-27-08, 05:41 PM   #21
SandmanX
Beginner DJ
 
SandmanX's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2006
Location: Toronto
Posts: 62
Track: the seed 2.0 - The Roots
SandmanX is an unknown quantity at this point
Touch Controller Mixer

Here is my submission for the Stanton DJ contest


Overview
This controller is designed for DJ’s to control any Digital Vinyl System, such as FinalScratch or Serato. The controller handles 2 channels at a time, and enables the DJ to do everything they would be able to do with a regular mixer, control all the extra features that the software makes available, as well as manage and load their song library easily. The controller is designed to be connected to a computer or laptop running a DVS system through USB or Firewire. The design above takes elements from existing Stanton products, and adds new features. Everything included in this design can be done using current technology, but it still includes new features that are not on current dj controllers.

Features
• 1 crossfader with adjustable curve and tension
• 2 volume faders with adjustable curve
• 1 Touch Controller to control each deck
• Library management and song selection controls
• Multitouch controls from scs.3d to control pitch
• Separate looping controls for each channel
• 3 band cut EQ with lighted knobs with gain
• Effects controls for each channel
• Extra User Assignable controls section




Mixer Features
This controller is meant for 2 channel work, but can be used for more using the assingnable controls. There is a crossfader, and 2 volume controls which all have adjustable fader curves, and tensions. The crossfader can also be reversed for hamster style scratching. Each channel also has a 3 band eq with a full cut, and a gain control. The knobs for these controls are lit around the edges, so that you always know their level, even in a dark DJ booth. Each deck also has play/pause, cue, and sync buttons nearby for easy use.
The top right of the mixer features the output control, a master output volume with booth volume below it, and a headphone volume with headphone split knob below it. The master output and headphone volumes are important, so they too have the knobs with the LED ring making them easy to monitor.
The Pitch control is handled by the pitch control from the SCS.3D touchpad. This touchpad is perfect for changing the pitch/tempo of the current track, and the red lights in the side allow you to see the current pitch relative to the normal. The pitch control is only the default setting, and this touchpad can be set to any feature in the software that can be controlled by a slider, and the buttons beside the slider can be used for toggling its’ mode.

Software Control Features
This controller has some features which are unique to controlling software. One difference is the 4 assignable knobs and buttons found beside each channels pitch control. These controls by default are set up to control the effects for each deck that the software provides. Pressing the button enables/disables the effect, while the knob changes a paramter for the effect. But these controls can be mapped to be extra cue points, changing the function of the pitch control, extra looping controls, or EQ kill switches. The 4 sliders, and 8 knobs in the top left are also user assignable controls that can be used for these purposes. They would also work well as light controls.
Each channel also has it’s own set of looping controls. The two buttons are for setting the start and end point of the loops, making it very easy to set up a loop of the perfect length. The knob above the buttons is for modifying the loop length. Rotating it clockwise increases the loop length, and counter clockwise decreases it.

Library Management
Laptops hold thousands of songs, and going through them all on a laptop can be disruptive to a DJ’s work flow. Taking your hands off your gear to fiddle with your laptop never looks good, and finding the right keys in a dark booth can be a challenge. This controller has a set of controls dedicated to managing your song library on the lower right corner. The buttons let you move betweens sections in the software, such as the song library listing, the list of playlists, or effects section. These navigation arrows let you move to any element you see on the screen without taking your hands off the mixer. The large jog wheel is used for scrolling through your song library. Going through a list of thousands of songs can take a long time using a keyboard, so this job wheel will make selecting the right song easy. Once the right song is selected, the A and B buttons load the song into the appropriate deck . If one of the decks are selected on the software instead of the library, the jog wheel is then used to go through the song, so that you can find the part you want quickly and easily.

Touch Control
The biggest feature that this controller adds is the Touch Control for each deck. Each Touch Control is a small touchscreen placed on the controller, which displays the waveform of the current track. As the track plays, it scrolls upwards, and touching the touchscreen will affect track being played. Pushing up quickly will make the track play faster, pusing up slowly will make the track play more slowly. Placing your finger in one place will stop the track, and pulling downwards will play the track backwards. These touch controls are a replacement for the plastic wheels commonly used on controllers, and improve on them by giving DJ’s more information on the song playing, while still using the same motions as vinyl turntables, or CD decks. Implementing this control will require a small LCD screen, and a clear touchscreen to go on top of it. The touch screen only need to detect finger position in the vertical axis, and multitouch is not needed. The waveform for the songs will need to be transferred to the mixer from the laptop over the USB/Firewire connection.
SandmanX is offline   Back to Top.
Old 12-28-08, 01:34 PM   #22
Claude Perdu
Resident DJ
 
Claude Perdu's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jun 2008
Location: Ghent, Belgium
Posts: 1,125
Track: Turbo Recordings
Claude Perdu is a jewel in the roughClaude Perdu is a jewel in the roughClaude Perdu is a jewel in the roughClaude Perdu is a jewel in the roughClaude Perdu is a jewel in the rough
Send a message via MSN to Claude Perdu
So, here’s my “dream” MIDI controller. I kept it quite simple, 2 channels, and seemingly not too many controls. The beauty is lots of functionality, without being overkill.


What program is this MIDI controller aimed for?
This is aimed as a replacement of the analogue mixer in a timecode setup. Now, we need a second controller besides the mixer in a TC-setup, this mixer puts both in one.

What soundcard does this mixer include?
This mixer includes a 1-channel out soundcard, a headphone jack. Why no more? Because as this is designed for a timecode setup, some systems are hardware reliable, such as Traktor Scratch Pro with the Audio 8. This gives the choice of choosing your own soundcard fo your standards.

How does it connect, what connections are there?
There are 3 USB-ports on the back of this mixer. They are protected by the metal rails, as illustrated on the picture. The first USB is for straight connection to the computer, it also gets its power from there. The second is for connection with another one of these units, for more control. The last USB-port is for another sort of control element, such as an external keyboard for quicker browsing through the library.

The mixer section
So, there are two line faders and one crossfader. All three of these are Innofader compatible. Not included, because not everyone needs them, and it greatly increases the cost.
Between the faders, we have three points of interest, first the cue buttons. These decide what channel(s) cue through the headphones. Then we have the dB-level meters. As last, there’s a three-position rotary, I’ll come back to its functionality later in the main controls section.
Above the faders, there is the usual 3-band EQ and a gain pot.

Main controls section
This section will cover functionality of the central controls. In the middle, is the touchpad, which is the same as on the SCS.3D. The reason for this is the functionality, it has tons of controls. Under it are four pads, which each assign the touchpad on a different function, browsing, effects, cueing/looping, vinyl (for mobile gigs without the timecode).
Above are three push encoders and an LCD-screen (which is slightly slanted up for clearer view). Why not (multi)touch? Because it’s not necessary and once again it would increase the price to something only Richie Hawtin can afford. The encoders can be used for effects, displayed on the LCD-screen when in effects mode, as stated before. Use your own imagination and personal favour for this. The possibilities are endless; of course you could just use them as FX-controls etc.
The touchpad can be used for browsing like an iPod’s clickwheel (rotating finger to scroll) or an iPhone way of scrolling (simply go over it smoothly up and down).
The three other functionalities of this pad have already been proven with the SCS.3D.
The three-position pot between the line faders is for assigning the touchpad’s effects, cueing/looping and vinyl mode. Left is for channel one, right for channel two, and middle is to split the pad in two vertically, for control on both channels at once.

The extra controls
So, there are a couple more extra controls on here, the four pads under the line faders and the four push encoders on the top. These are purely for your own choice. Recommended possibilities are:
For the pads, either loop in and loop out, or play/pause and sync, for mobile gigs without the timecode.
For the encoders, simple but necessary things, such as headphone volume, cue mix, headphone EQ, master and/or mic volume.

Why only two channels?
Because not everyone needs four channels, and for those who do need it there are two solutions:
Bring out a second version of these, but with four channels.
Connect two modules with the second USB-port.
__________________
Music and random thoughts
NOM NOM NOM NOM NOM NOM
Claude Perdu is offline   Back to Top.
Old 12-28-08, 02:26 PM   #23
m_nus
Club DJ
 
m_nus's Avatar
 
Join Date: Sep 2007
Location: Manchester
Posts: 978
Track: Noirdegout-Late Night Cities (Original)
m_nus is an unknown quantity at this point
Design Brief

A controller designed to maximize function and clarity, using high quality DJ mixer components, whilst keeping the unit portable and sleek. This unit would seek to improve on cheap and disposable units with gimmicks, instead focusing on an intuitive feel with user-replaceable, high quality, DJ mixer style parts.

http://img227.imageshack.us/img227/3...rdesignbc4.jpg

Features

• OSC Open Sound Control – More accurate and responsive than traditional midi with less latency

• USB 2.0 connectivity and Midi ports to allow multiple units to be linked. This allows users to buy 2/3 units for project studio use yet take one unit out to DJ gigs.

• Clear LCD soft-label display – This allows clear feedback when using the multi-functional encoders. This multi-functionality allows for much greater control with the minimum of bulk

• Back-lit coulour coded button and UV paint for key controls such as master volume

• Through layered controls and visual feedback one can access all needed midi parameters, such as the Fx in Traktor Pro DJ.

• An ample amount of buttons for triggering clips in Ableton live or controlling loops and cues in DJ software

• Transport controls for your software’s global parameters

• Durable high-grip rubberized pots and encoders such as those found on Xone mixers / controllers

• High Quality, Full length faders by Penny & Giles (user-replaceable)

• High Quality, Full length DJ X-fader by Penny & Giles or Innofader for scratch DJ’s (user-replaceable)

• Rubber buttons for with a reassuring click.

• The unit should be no higher than 4cm so it can easily slip into a backpack and be made of lightweight aluminium so it can be placed on an unused DJ turntable, when in the mixing booth.

• Midi Clock and BPM control buttons for syncing your software ect.

• No built in souncard to reduce cost, weight and to allow the premium sound quality
__________________
Once You Go 4 Band, You Never Go Back
&
Never Trust DJ With A Thin Neck

Last edited by m_nus : 12-28-08 at 02:31 PM.
m_nus is offline   Back to Top.
Old 12-28-08, 11:07 PM   #24
Sean 5
U would
 
Sean 5's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2006
Location: Fucking, Austria
Posts: 6,655
Track: Lady in Red - Chris de Burgh
Sean 5 has a brilliant futureSean 5 has a brilliant futureSean 5 has a brilliant futureSean 5 has a brilliant futureSean 5 has a brilliant futureSean 5 has a brilliant futureSean 5 has a brilliant futureSean 5 has a brilliant futureSean 5 has a brilliant futureSean 5 has a brilliant futureSean 5 has a brilliant future
Please note: I apologize for using the RANE schematics. They were the easiest to manipulate and work with

Stanton MMS (Modular Mixer System)


When designing a revolutionary product, it is not enough to simply redesign old philosophies and hope they will work their way into existing markets. Instead, it is necessary to accept and embrace a new way of thinking, a radical new approach – one that not only takes your product one step further, but looks five steps beyond that as well. The Stanton Modular Mixer System strives to do just this. The traditional notion of gear is shattered, and a new level of attachment, customization, and ultimate satisfaction with the product is achieved.

For too long, DJ’s have had to cope with mixers that have never truly met all of their requirements. Every DJ in this world has a unique idea of the “perfect” mixer – the one built just for them with only the functions they require and no extra fluff.

Furthermore, budget problems work their way into the equation as well. A novice DJ may not be willing to spend more than is necessary for a no-frills, bare-bones mixer. Unfortunately, most of these people know they will eventually want to incorporate more control, more channels, even effects and midi parameters into their setups. Unfortunately, no mixer has ever been able to grow as the skills and budget of the DJ expands over time…. Until now.

Imagine bringing in Stanton’s engineering team into your living room. A mixer designed specifically for you, with the functionality you need and laid out exactly to your specifications. Imagine placing as many channels as required, as many MIDI parameters as needed, even custom-built and custom-tuned effects processors into your mixer. Just the way you imagined it, just the way you want it to react.

Take that one step further. Imagine a mixer that grows with you. One that allows you to save money on the initial purchase and add components as you need / can afford them. You will never have to settle for a mixer you will outgrow ever again. As you expand in your skills, your mixer can follow suit – without any wasted money or effort.


Introducing the Stanton Modular Mixer System (MMS). A mixer system that is built to your specifics, because you can pick the components. One by one, you can place what you need where you need it and at what point in time you find it feasible. Start with two channels and basic EQ’s, and later down the line add more channels, an effects processor, even MIDI control and filters.

The basis of the Stanton MMS lies on fundamental building blocks sold individually. Components of mixers can be broken down into essential units – and those units can be sold one by one. You mix, you match, you build, and you expand your mixer to your needs. One feature at a time. All modules can be placed in any orientation to adjacent modules, the Mother Module (below) will recognize them and their orientation and displays the functions and routing the module allows for / unlocks.

Special locking ports built into the side of each piece (not shown) allow for the modules to lock into each other and communicate to each other. The locking mechanism and port eliminates the need for a backing plate, and allows for any form factor. Build a square, a rectangle, even a line of midi control.
(followed in next post)
__________________
Quote:
Originally Posted by Rockngo View Post
Me, I always tell the truth... even when I lie.

Last edited by Sean 5 : 12-28-08 at 11:22 PM.
Sean 5 is offline   Back to Top.
Old 12-28-08, 11:07 PM   #25
Sean 5
U would
 
Sean 5's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2006
Location: Fucking, Austria
Posts: 6,655
Track: Lady in Red - Chris de Burgh
Sean 5 has a brilliant futureSean 5 has a brilliant futureSean 5 has a brilliant futureSean 5 has a brilliant futureSean 5 has a brilliant futureSean 5 has a brilliant futureSean 5 has a brilliant futureSean 5 has a brilliant futureSean 5 has a brilliant futureSean 5 has a brilliant futureSean 5 has a brilliant future
Mother Module
The Stanton MMS starts with the base Mother Module (MM). The mother module is the brain of your mixer and takes care of all the organization and processing for you. It is the piece you buy first and add what you need to it. The unit includes a high-resolution LCD screen with controls to allow you to detect, set, program, and assign additional modules as you acquire them and assemble them. Eight phono/line inputs, two mic/instrument inputs, and a send/return loop are present and reserved on the module. A full set of Master, Booth, Record, and RCA outputs is included as well (with pertinent level controls on top). The Mother Module includes a master VU meter. The unit also has a USB port to output/accept MIDI parameters and allow for customization of the entire mixer with included software. The module also serves as a 16-in/16-out ASIO & Core Audio soundcard, allowing for one-cable hook-up to 8 channels in Ableton or 4 in Traktor. The unit also outputs MIDI Clock information from an internal BPM counter.

The second part of the mother module includes a front faceplace, which houses dual ¼” and 3.5mm headphone jacks, cue functionality, and upfader/crossfader controls (if purchased).





Audio Controls

Equalizer Module
Each unit in the MMS system is sold on a single-channel basis. The Equalizer Module includes four knobs and three buttons. These knobs can either be set as tradition 3-band+gain control, or A&H-style 4-band EQ. Curve control and crossover frequencies for the equalizer can also be fully edited as well. The buttons can be set (through the Mother Module’s controls or with the included software) as kill switches or midi buttons.



Linear Equalizer Module

Commonly found in scratch mixers, this linear equalizer is also available as an option.



Extended Fader Module
This module contains a single 100mm upfader for smooth blends. Curve control is granted through the Mother Module’s screen and controls, or can be controlled with any knob added on as well (see below). Cue control is also present, as well as cross-fader assign (if one is chosen to be placed on as well). Coupling an Equalizer Module and a Fader Module provides on single, complete channel on the mixer.



Short-Throw CrossFader Module
This 45mm optical fader provides buttery-smooth scratch functionality to those that require it. Tension control is built into the unit, as well as a reverse functionality from the Mother Module. Curve, cut-in, dip, and several more parameters (as found on the AI Innofader) are controlled through the Mother Module.



Short-Throw Upfader
A scratch-oriented upfader with all the functionality listed above



Rotary Module.
The Rotary Module houses a massive anodized knob that can be used in place of an upfader. The rotary control has a truly linear curve.



High/Low/Band/Notch Filter Module.
This unit includes a massively capable filter. The filter includes high/low/band/notch settings, frequency and resonance control, LFO, as well as channel assign. Several filter modules can be placed on the mixer – one or two for all channels, or one for every single channel.



FX Send/Return Module
This unit provides an FX send/return (jacks located on the Mother Module) complete with the choice of either Wet/Dry control or individual send & return knobs, as well as post-fader or pre-fader assignment.



FX Module
A gorgeous touch-screen LCD with several rotary encoders and buttons serves as the most powerful effects engine in any commercial mixer. Addition effects (including the standards, beat repeat, bit crusher, etc. ) can be downloaded into or modified for the unit via USB. Effects-swapping forums can be created online to allow for users to swap presets and new effects they have created. Up to 9 effects units (8 channels plus master) can be placed in the system. All are chainable.



Microphone Control Module
This module allows for full control over the microphone inputs, including level, EQ’s, gain, talk-over, and a VU meter. EQ structure is also editable via software or the MM.



MIDI CONTROL

DVS Core Functionality
This module is designed for the DVS user. It includes all core functions that can be sent to the program via MIDI. Bome’s Midi Translator, which is included, will aide in reproducing commands in DVS programs that are mot tied to MIDI. The module includes track navigation buttons, ABS/REL/INT switch, track load buttons, endless rotary encoder for scrolling through crates/songs, and tab function to change browser focus.



Looping Control Module
Designed for the DVS user, this midi unit is specifically designed to provide a layout ideal for looping control.



Generic Knob Bank Module

This module includes four knobs that send midi information.



Generic Buttons Bank Module

This module includes eight buttons that send midi information. Perfect for clip triggers, etc.



Generic Fader Module

This module includes four mini-faders that are capable of sending MIDI as well.



Blanks & Fill Spacer Modules

To allow for complete control over positioning of the MMS components, blank modules are sold at nominal prices to fill gaps and edges that may remain open during design.


Example Configurations & Growing Schemes

1. The scratch DJ

Step one starts with a basic 2-channel scratch mixer. Step two expands this to include FX and Mic channels as the indivual starts to play out. Step three incorporates a third channel and DVS / Looping functionality when the DJ starts to use computer interfaces.



2. The Mix DJ

Step one starts with two basic channels, step two expands this to four with a filter added and DVS control. The final step adds Matrix inputs, a send/return, mic channels, built-in FX, and a MIDI control section similar to the Xone-1D.



3. The Rotary Freak

For those that enjoy the classic Urei or Rane rotary mixers, this mixer configuration includes 8 channels, matrix inputs / filters on each channels, fx, a send/return, and a MASSIVE midi control section.

__________________
Quote:
Originally Posted by Rockngo View Post
Me, I always tell the truth... even when I lie.

Last edited by Sean 5 : 12-28-08 at 11:19 PM.
Sean 5 is offline   Back to Top.
Closed Thread


Thread Tools

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

vB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off
Forum Jump


All times are GMT -5. The time now is 08:11 PM.


Powered by vBulletin® Version 3.6.8
Copyright ©2000 - 2010, Jelsoft Enterprises Ltd.
Copyright 2009 Alcyone Music Productions