Highly Liquid has introduced MIDI CPU – an $44.95 “instant DIY MIDI controller/MIDI encoder” that can be used to created custom MIDI devices.

The MIDI CPU ships fully assembled.  Simply attach MIDI connectors, control components, and a battery or DC power supply.

The MIDI CPU has a long list of potential applications:

• Build your own traditional footswitch, keyboard, or “knob box” controller
• Build your own alternative MIDI controller—optical theremin, fret-based controller, etc
• Generate MIDI note patterns or CC waveforms from digital or analog signals.
• Re-purpose a “consumer” keyboard, calculator, game controller, or other electronic device as a MIDI controller.

Features:

• 24 independent input terminals
• Monitors up to 128 switches, 14 potentiometers, or 12 encoders
• Allows mixed input types
• Merges MIDI input with locally generated messages—multiple units share a single MIDI Out port
• Powered via battery or DC supply between 3.3V and 12V
• Measures only 66mm x 38mm (2.6? x 1.5?)
• Configured via MIDI SysEx message
• User-upgradeable firmware