giuliomoro At what rate should these digital inputs be read?
I think, from a technical standpoint, you can read the inputs at your leisure. From a UX perspective I would obviously want to do this so the change feels immediate to the user (me!).
https://www.bourns.com/pdfs/ace.pdf
These 4 encoders are intend to change the various parameters of the digital synth(s). The lower precision encoders will be used to switch between settings/tracks etc. Have you ever used a monome arc? Though those apparently range between ~250-1000 ppr which is likely beyond my budget at least while I am so low on the learning curve.
An endless pot could certainly work here, definitely probably a better starting point given the constraints (and perhaps actually more 'precise' feeling from a UX perspective?), thanks!
giuliomoro whether you need any other peripherals [hint: tell us!]
So at a minimum I would like the unit to function as a midi controller, with an in-built sequencer. I would love to host the synths on the bela also, but I'm not clear how ambitious I am being vs the resource requirements of a multi-track polyphonic system! (Maybe I need two Bela! I do have an Axoloti and I also have my eyes on its big brother Akso... or really I could use a general purpose computer as the synth/GUI host).
This means I really will need a (usb) midi out, and obviously this thing will need powering if USB isn't enough for all these RGB LEDs. Oh, and I forgot to mention I'd like to use four adafruit neopixel rings, each around one of the high precision encoders too.
Many thanks for all the links, and the time spent replying to my question!
As you've read this far maybe you are interested in parts of the project I don't need help with ๐..
Froma design point of view you can imagine this as a blend between the synthstrom deluge, a monome arc/grid, and teenage engineering op-1. Here is a mockup:
The idea is still evolving. I wanted to make a more accessible/'fun' synth builder with OP-1 like visuals to be controlled via the controller:
Ambitious project... I know! If anyone in the UK is a hardware expert and wants to join this 'project' with me that would be cool- I can certainly pull my wieght on the software side. Equally, I am having fun entering the somewhat daunting world of circuitry... (with software dev it is pretty hard to fry all your components... (: )