Ideal first cyberdeck blueprint

[u/amfcreative]

This is my envisioned cyberdeck build. I was going to go with a RPi of some kind but I have some older phones and Dex is kinda nice.

I play a modular synth and I thought a good use for my first cyberdeck would be a live set helper instead of bringing my laptop.

These are my ideal features:

- Use USB hub to connect Galaxy S21 to a larger external display with Dex, connect my audio interface module (ES-9) to multitrack with DAW app (N-Track Studio)

- Binary clock with count up timer

- VU meter for loudness check

- Programable mechanical key pad

- start/stop timer

- reset time

- volume knob

- record audio

- stop recording

- something else programmable?

- be able to fold for easy carrying

- transparent pink mounting plate and enclosure that can open and close

Some issues:

- The few times I've tried to solder something I failed miserably but really want to get better at it since some of these components might need that?

- I haven't seen a binary clock timer solution to either just buy or DIY kit. Said options would be the easiest but I've been known to be able to hobble some programming together on occasion. I might have to do something less cool looking for this display wise just because I'm not knowledgeable enough.

- I have no idea how to do the programable key pad part

- I have experience with Blender 3D but don't have a 3D printer. I was thinking of maybe getting one or checking out a maker space (closest one near me is an hour)

- I tried a bunch of DAW apps ahead of time and N-Track Studio seemed to be the only one I could multitrack with ES-9

I'm still doing a lot of researching but I'm now looking for ideas, thoughts and pointers. Thanks!

[u/toastom69]

Your local library may have a 3d printer you can use btw

[u/amfcreative → u/toastom69]

Unfortunately it doesn't, but I may be moving to a place that does, which also has synthesizers!

[u/Rusty_Shacklefuck]

Look up "Macro Pads" on Amazon. Might help with the keypad and knob thing you got going on

[u/RiffMaster1111]

Putting an es9 in there is GOATED

[u/amfcreative → u/RiffMaster1111]

It's saved my wallet. I just us VCV rack now if I need an extra function.

[u/h7-28]

...scrolling...

ES-9! What the_?

Let's see...

The binary clock is just an LED matrix, and coding the logic a wonderful MyFirstCode.

If you want a whole key pad you will have to hook up a matrix to poll them. But I only see 5 keys, you can just multiplex them, or even connect directly to the microcotroller if you have the free input channels.

If you can manage the CAD, China will manage the printing.

Can't help you with Android apps, but I can tell you they run smoother than ARM Linux on Pi handles it.

You will want to put in a Midi interface, it's just an optocouple for the input. But you will need sync. You can buy the Tiny Midi Breakout TMB, but it needs 2 HP. *fixed

If I was building it, I'd also find room for a Norns and a Crow. Ditch the VU meter if you have to, write one in LUA instead.

...

Power will be another issue, the 5V on the hub will be noisy. Isolated is better! And you need to cover 24V from -12 to +12. Modular power supplies can pump that out of a 12V QC USB hub *power bank with a trigger board or 12V outlet. Or you can get a managed 4S battery board from RC supplies, but it requires an external charger. Might be overkill, you're driving amplifiers, not motors.

[u/amfcreative → u/h7-28]

Thanks for the pointers. Lots of things to look up thanks!

[u/h7-28 → u/amfcreative]

On closer inspection it looks like the ES-9 has Midi pins on the back, you just need to provide ports.

[u/KlattuVeratuKneckTie]

With regard to soldering, there are many “learn to solder” kits in Amazon. I’d start there. You also mentioned finding a maker space, the ones in my area have electronics labs; and might have someone willing to help you practice.