Interfaces (was Re: [sdiy] Wakeman)

[Paul Maddox]

Glen,

> I think that user interfaces offer the most immediate opportunities for
> advancement and innovation. I'm not just referring to "knobs and menus",
> but also to how the notes are triggered and affected during play.

Agreed..

> Isn't everyone tired of push button interfaces using unlabeled hidden
> functions? Why don't we have controls that change their legend in response
> to the particular mode they are in at the moment? The legends could be
done
> with individual LCD displays (would take a lot of LCD's), or the whole
> control panel could be a single touch screen. This would seem to be an
> economic hurdle, but surely this could be overcome eventually?

something I have been thinking about for a VERY long time.
Imagine a 'star trek next generation' style control surface..
A large flat panel, touch repsonsive with all the
displays/values/parameters, allowing different parameters to be displayed as
they become relivant. But also allowing the users to position 'knobs' where
they want them or where they feel most comfortable..
The biggest problem, as you said, is the cost, Large flat panel displays are
not cheap, adding a touch screen to this only makes them every more
expensive.. once the prices come down I beleive this is a real possibility..

Paul
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