so this would only function as note input or could it also function on the perform page?
maybe through the app the keys could be switched to send cc 41-62 instead of notes?
i really like the design, but if so, it could be an idea to change the design of the keys.
(just throwing it out there.sorry)
Absolutely! The 2 levers and all 19 keys can be mapped to any midi controls.
Once we get the first ones built and working with the basic v1 firmware, we’ll have the whole project up on Github and hopefully the firmware/software will evolve as the community contributes.
Need to bump this so the developer knows we’re thinking of him.
Sean is working on a “sustain” feature for the pitchbend lever.
Currently, basic “pitchbend” lever, velocity lever, octave buttons, and keys are working well. I have one that I’ve been using with preliminary plastics (still refining a few things on that topic as of yesterday) and I can say it’s awesome to use with the TM. Whole new experience.
OK. Quick update.
The first boards have been tested, modified and debugged.
The next batch of 5 is on its way now - maybe a week or two out.
We are working on printing out the first cases now, and should be posting pics of that as soon as something is worth sharing.
I want to add that this is a “nights and weekend” project for the 2 of us working on this.
Perfect timing on your post!
Where do I need to sign and who do I need to bribe to have one for me?
There are 2 draft wishes I started to support the functionality of this Mini Keyboard.
I don’t know how they decide which ones to promote to voting status, but if it’s by popularity then please check em out and say something
The first wish would allow the Levers to add realtime FX in live recording. The default configuration we’re building right now has Lever 1 set to microtuning to mimic pitch bend, which would be great to have recorded along with the note. Lever 2 is set to velocity (which works great already).
The second wish is to support the limitations of such a small keyboard(any keyboard really). It would save the hassle of dropping down 2 octaves every time you want to use a beat sliced instrument.
I was a little too optimistic about the next batch.
We got caught in the Chinese New Year dead zone - maybe a another week or 2 for new boards
While Josh is working on the plastics, I had some time to get the V1 firmware working smoothly.
So besides the 19 keys, we have 2 three-function levers and 2 octave buttons. The left lever fakes a pitchbend by controlling finetune down and up via left or right respectively. Center push activates the fake sustain by controlling the volume release levels of the volume envelope - basically a shortcut to toggle it up and down. The right lever controls the velocity by shifting low to high via left to right. Center push on this lever resets to midi level 80. There are some LEDs to tell you whats going on also.
Oh my god, I just found your project, this is amazing, hope this dream come true.
I would instant buy one.
Cheers
Just want to add some encouragement to this thread about this mini keyboard. As the previous poster mentioned, this would be an instant buy for me and it would mean that I don’t have to carry an opz everywhere!
I havent purchased a tracker mini because of the lack of live note input on the hardware itself but if this was available i wouldnt hesitate. Hope its still progressing
Thanks for the support Tone, Timbient, jja_305.
We are still going - tweaking the PCBs and the cases.
Here’s a few shots of our latest progress…
We’re using pink, blue and cyan LEDs to tie in with Polyend a bit.
Those little speakers look a little beat up because of all the stresses of prototyping, but they still sound great.
dude. speakers n all.
I love what you’re doing here. I would have to have one when they’re finished. Thanks for sharing the progress!
Amazing project !
Sorry if you already answered, on the picture of the board I can only see one jack connector. What will be the final version ? Will you have access to audio IN/OUT and MIDI Out ?
Yes. Look at some of the older pics.
It has 3 jacks and 4 plugs.
Line In/Out, and MIDI Out are simply routed out the side jacks.
MIDI into the PTM is the primary function, so there’s no thru - we just didn’t have the space for a 4th jack.
An amp taps into the Line Out to run the speakers.
The little switch (lower left) toggles the amp on and off to conserve battery power.
There’s a little green LED next to the switch to tell you when it’s on.
Also on the latest CAD image, that little gold socket is not a jack.
It’s a touch sensor - not sure what we’re going to do with it yet in the firmware, but it will either be a “shift” function or a toggle for Bluetooth connection.
So you can actually play slices now
A great project. I would be happy to be able to buy it at some point.