DIA-X

Hybrid
Synth + Controller

A portable hybrid synth-controller built for tactile experimentation, featuring a dual-mode system for instinctive play and extended audiovisual performance.

2026

Duration / 2 months
Role / research & development, rapid prototyping, usability testing, UX

As I worked more with TouchDesigner × Ableton projects, I found that while my MPK Mini controller works well for sequencing chords in the studio, it is less suited for audiovisual interactions. Spending time in collaborative spaces further surfaced the need for a more flexible setup—something small enough to fit in my bag and allow experimentation without plugging into a computer. This made me rethink what I needed: a device built around essential controls that could function both standalone and within a larger network.

The outcome is DIA-X, a portable prototype built around essential, tactile control. Compact enough to travel with and capable of generating sound on its own, it enables hands-on experimentation and extends into larger immersive performances.

DIA-X is designed around a dual-mode experience, enabling users to transition between standalone exploration and networked audiovisual control.

In Local mode, users can play and explore sound instantly, without external setup.

In Extended mode, it enables users to control parameters in TouchDesigner via Open Sound Control (OSC).

Components +
System Diagram

Key Components:

1x AtomS3R
1x Atomic Voice Base
1x Unit Fader
1x Encoder
5x Unit Keys

Connectors:

1x Tailbat
1x UnitHub
1x PbHub

Using M5Stack components, I selected only the essentials to minimise hardware footprint and enable portability through minimal setup.

Initial Ideas

I began by sketching different layout configurations to explore how the components could work together. I didn’t spend too much time at this stage, as I wanted to move quickly into testing the ideas in physical form.

Hardware Prototype Development

I moved on to rapid prototyping with LEGO to quickly explore the system’s spatial layout. Its modularity allowed me to freely rearrange components, helping me test spacing, refine the configuration, and take more accurate measurements once the layout was finalised.

It was a hands-on but challenging process. With many parts to account for, maintaining compactness became a key constraint. After about three hours of focused iteration, the components finally sat together well and the layout felt resolved. Through this process, I realised my thinking becomes clearer through making and building.

Embracing the mess and the unknown.

When in doubt, i went back to my moodboard to draw colour inspiration.