Livid Instruments Block USB/MIDI Control Surface

The Livid Instruments Block Control Surface is a compact and programmable MIDI control surface designed for interactive audio performance. Built on the same bi-directional and adaptable platform as the Ohm64, Block provides a powerful interface for creating and interacting with sound in a small easy-to-transport body. Sixty four back-lit led buttons provide endless possibilities for visual feedback with the instrument by connecting it to Ableton Live, Max/MSP, our open source sounds apps, or any other software that supports MIDI. The open source blockEditor application lets you reprogram any of the controller's sixty four clip buttons, eight knobs, two faders, and seven function buttons. Block is hand crafted from lightweight wood and aluminum for easy portability.

Block has bi-directional talk-back communication allowing the controller to talk to your software, and software to your device. MIDI messages can be sent to the Block to light up the buttons for an interactive performance. Completely programmable and mappable, block provides a flexible control surface that be used with any software or setup. Completely USB powered means you don't have to worry about adapters and and power strips, and it is plug and play so no drivers are required.

Portability
Block is designed for total portability. Block is crafted from fine woods and anodized aluminum. The Block will fit snugly into a laptop case or backpack. Powered by a single USB cable, you can do a whole set on your laptop… read more without even plugging into the wall!

Design
Block is designed with a perfectly square layout allowing it to be controlled from all sides. The 8x8 keypad and corresponding 8 knobs make it easy to integrate into your setup. Two faders, seven function buttons, and an extra large tap tempo button are provided to control presets, banks, settings, and are completely re-programmable. Livid's keypads and controls are custom designed for maximum strength and durability.

Talkback
Block's openness adaptability provides endless possibilities for playing software like Max/MSP, Ableton Live, VJ applications, our open-source sound software, or anything else that supports MIDI.

Software
Block is completely re-programmable and the blockEditor provides an interface for changing MIDI assignments of the buttons, sliders, knobs, and LED's. The editor also provides a LED pattern maker to create custom LED patterns. Source code is open source under a GPL license, and editable in Max/MSP.

Home Grown
Livid is an owner operated company and they put a lot of effort into making ethically manufactured quality controllers at an affordable price. Our products are designed and built by artists and musicians. We only use custom-made and high-quality parts and components, you won't find any cheap plastic or flimsy controls on any of our products. Block is made from the renewable and dual-purposed jelutong wood and finished with an environmentally friendly VOC free clear coat. All of their products are manufactured lead-free and are completely ROHS compliant. Block is handcrafted and assembled in their Austin, Texas shop. read less