MOTM

I'm really encouraged by Moe's e-mail on future improvements to user 
interface.  The compromises imposed on the user interface by the 
conformity to a "grid" of knobs are, IMHO, a source of many of the 
complaints.  And allowing different knob sizes will be a big gain.  
For example, the micro VCA's labeling could have been more complete 
with the extra real estate gained by using some smaller knobs for 
less frequently used functions.

Extra functions in modules are of course welcome, but there is a 
point at which the usability of an interface is hampered by the 
compromises imposed by having EVERY function presented at the same 
level of importance to the user.  For example, if there are 5 
interesting but arcane functions that are rarely used on a module 
that crowd the one often used function, making it hard to find within 
the grid of identical knobs, the module is compromised.  Why not have 
a normal knob with some space around it for the often used function, 
and smaller knobs (to the side or below) for those arcane functions 
we all secretly love?  I hope this will be possible in future MOTM 
modules.  I'd gladly give up F-111 washers for this!

As an aside, the latest BMW 7-series sedan incorporates a new CPU-
based dash, with menus and pseudo joystick to access dozens of 
functions.  Many people hate it.  Like the DX7, too many buried 
functions.  A modular CAN fall into the same trap, even though all 
functions are accessable simultaneously, if the functions are buried 
as needles in haystacks of identical knobs, spaced identically in 
grids with limited labeling.  Dare I say it... it reminds me of 
searching through menus...

Best regards,
Roger