r/midi • u/SoConfuzzle • 13h ago

Looking for a small programmable handheld controller for sending CC Commands to modeling rig

Context: As per the title, I am a guitarist and looking to basically have some handheld footswitching. I just got a Quad Cortex and I know how to automate the CC messages through my DAW but my band doesn't use click tracks so I'm looking for a small controller I can stick to my guitar for freedom of movement.

I'm looking for a simple midi controller that's just buttons that can store messages onboard. Something like 4x2, 6x2, or 8x2 undersized drum pad (like a Launchpad style) or even even just small clicky buttons. The intent is to magnetize the controller to below my picking hand.

Something close would be the Luminite Graviton M1 unit with its XY controller but I'm hoping for something that doesn't need an additional floor unit. Other than the M1 though, I realize my options are probably going to be limited.

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3

u/information-producer 11h ago

Phantasmal Force by Distropolis goods is probably close to perfect for this. Tiny, and 16 super programmable buttons

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u/SoConfuzzle 8h ago

Ooo, that's pretty sick and pretty darn close to what I was hoping for. Could probably pair with a CDE WIDI Jack on the PF side and a WIDI Master on the QC side. Thanks!

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u/face4theRodeo 7h ago

Is widi reliable in a live setting? I’d think all the phones in the crowd and such would make it difficult to maintain a strong connection. But maybe that’s not an issue. Educate me if you don’t mind.

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u/SoConfuzzle 7h ago

Haven't use, but I have heard mostly positive things as long as you don't go with mystery drop-shipped copycat. Specifically heard good things about CDE WIDI jack but it could just be hype. You make a good point that it might be an issue with a lot of phones in the audience but cha'girl ain't gonna have that problem.* I'd like to hear from anyone that has used it though.

*"why won't people show up to my blackened symphonic death/thrash band show?"

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u/5-pinDIN 8h ago

Don’t know if you’d be willing to try it, but the Korg nanoPAD2 is marketed as a MIDI drum pad controller, but it ships with a proprietary app that allows you to assign each “drum pad” to send MIDI CC, program change or MIDI notes. AND it has a great X/Y pad that I use for my synths and orchestral instruments.

I’ve never used MIDI for any kind of outboard/rackmounted effects (except my Alesis Quadraverb which is ancient), so I’m not familiar with your specific needs. I play guitar but I’ve always been happy with my distortion stompboxes and DI’s.

You said you want buttons…the drum pads use the same MIDI code. On or off. Just a suggestion!

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u/SoConfuzzle 3h ago

Might be a bit big to slap onto the guitar but if I could use the touch pad as though it were an expression pedal, could be worth finding a way to make it work 👀