Blog Update #7 Part 2: Navigating the Prototyping Process

First, I apologize for the lack of updates on this website; unforeseen development challenges have arisen, hindering the progress rate. Throughout the past few months, LA NPDT and I have been navigating issues that are sometimes brought about by inventing new technology.

Recent Development Journey

Since the last blog post, the availability of the chips needed for this prototype's MIDI Controller has remained vastly scarce. According to LA NPDT's suppliers, estimated lead times for shipping range from August 2023 - July 2024, all of which are beyond farther than the original timeline. So, we resorted to unconventional means for sourcing new components: eBay.

We would soon obtain the 2nd batch of chips from a 3rd-party seller, and a new set of boards was promptly constructed. When LA NPDT received them and attempted to execute their programming, they were nonfunctional. They tried various technical strategies to circumvent this and consulted with outside engineers, but nothing worked. Long story short, it has been theorized that the chips we received are counterfeit; they are natively missing integral features. Although the boards can both read and understand LA NPDT's code, there is an inability for it to be recognized as a MIDI device on Windows. This is highly unusual. So, after further deliberations and failed attempts at securing the 3rd batch of chips, LA NPDT and I agreed that it is best to redesign the boards. Thankfully, this would not be done from scratch; it's still primarily based on what was previously shown, and the redesign is now finished.

MIDI Controller Redesign Showcase

Top Board ("EFX Channels"): Producers will use this board to integrate various effects (e.g., reverb, delay/echo, phaser, etc.) into a channel(s) in their respective DAW.

Bottom Board: Producers will use this board to establish MIDI input (playing a keyboard), to apply various pre-set/programmable effects onto channels/sounds within a DAW (e.g., octave raise/lower, suspension, arpeggiator, etc.), and to use drum pads for production/performance purposes ("Drum Pad Module").

At the time of writing, these board designs have been submitted to a PCB fabricator; they will soon start building another batch. Unfortunately, it is unlikely that Melodi will be ready before 2023, but we will persevere. If you have any questions, want to share feedback, or inquire about the prototype, feel free to reach me at 845-671-1062 or e-mail me at simonjared24@gmail.com.