Intech Studio

Notes: A neat button module with long-lasting 4x4 tactile buttons that provide instant access to triggering samples, launching clips, controlling playback, or just simply drumming.

Set them to momentary, 2 or 3-step toggle action to enjoy playful experimentation. Can be used with other Grid controllers used as a HID macro controller or for MIDI programming in your creative environment.

Equipped with customisable multi-coloured LED lights to enable labelling in dark environments. Facilitate differentiating each potmeter by changing the colour of each indicator LED, adjusting brightness levels individually or adding pulsing animations.

Thanks to its compact and lightweight structure, the BU16 is a fully ergonomic parameter controller with easily mappable push buttons.

It is recommended that Grid is connected directly to the computer with a USB-C cable (this is not included). Some USB hubs may not work with Grid, due to issues with how the various class compliant communication methods establish connection through a hub with the host computer.

Most digital audio workstations can identify Grid as a MIDI controller and appear as a MIDI mappable device. When multiple modules are interconnected, Grid is identified as a single control surface. If the interconnected controllers are plugged in separately into the same Host, they appear as Grid #1, Grid #2 MIDI devices and so forth.

By default, through the Host's MIDI learn functionality, all of the control elements can be mapped. Grid's default firmware uses a unique dynamic assignment, so a 10 module Grid control surface will have unique Channel, Command and CC/Note assignments on each control element.

Grid controllers are shipped with firmware default configuration. To modify the configurations of the controllers, the Grid Editor cross-platform application can be used. Through the Grid Editor, suggested manufacturer profiles and community profiles are also available. Grid has an event driven architecture, where every interaction with the controller triggers an event. The triggered event runs the configured actions, like setting LED colours and intensity.

Events on Grid available for configuration:
Init - when a page is initialized
Potmeter - fader or potentiometer change event
Encoder - rotation of endless encoders
Button - switch button or encoder interaction
Utility - side button
Midi rx - MIDI processing incoming to Grid
Timer - delayed message triggers

Grids are created to suit distinguished workflows. Whether it comes to controlling outboard hardware gear like synthesizers, guitar pedals, and effect boxes, or inboard software such as DAWs, Lightning, and VSTs, a Grid controller is an ideal choice.

Get started with Grid in an instant: just plug in, snap together and play. There is no need for a brain module or any additional software components.

Tech specs

Weight: ~ 175 grams (~ 0,38 lb)
Size: 106 mm x 106 mm (4.19 x 4.19 inches) Eurorack-sized modules
16 white tactile buttons with 1.27i0.49 N operating force
Customizable multi-coloured LED lights for easy labelling in dark environments

Materials

Black aluminium front panel with a metallic, rugged finish
Plastic push buttons in white
Injection moulded plastic base
Golden spring-loaded connector pins
Strong N52 neodymium magnets
Silicone feet on the back for extra stability

Compatibility

Class compliant MIDI device with simple PnP (Plug and Play) experience
USB HID keyboard class
Compatible with Mac OS (intel & arm), Windows, Linux and mobile platforms with support provided

Powering options (USB cable not included)

Single USB cable to power up to 8 modules
High speed USB 2.0
Draws ~250mA

Notes: Knot is your compact and versatile USB MIDI host Knot is the perfect solution for musicians looking to bridge the gap between old-school MIDI gear like synthesizers, guitar pedals and USB-MIDI devices. With Knot, you can directly control your MIDI devices using Grid or other USB controllers.

Compatibility

Knot is equipped with two 3.5mm TRS jacks for sending and receiving MIDI data (both A and B TRS MIDI standards are supported). The jacks combined with the HOST port on the front ensure compatibility with countless setups.

Size & weight

Measuring just 60mm x 60mm x 10mm and weighing approximately 120 grams, Knot is a palm-sized device that is designed with portability in mind.

Firmware

Knot receives regular firmware updates with new features and other improvements. Updating is snappy and straightforward using the Grid Editor software. Knot is an open hardware project, and all source files are available on GitHub.

Powering

Knot got you covered with its wide range of powering options. Whether you are a guitarist with an extensive collection of pedals and chargers, or someone who keeps spare DC adapters just in case, Knot is an ideal choice with its extensive DC charging options. The device features an automatic polarity checking mechanism, allowing you to use chargers with either positive or negative tip without any issue. Power Knot with a USB-C cable, your trusty old guitar pedal power supply or with a power adapter from the MIDI Essentials Pack.

Usage Instructions:

Knot hosting Intech Studio's Grid

Using Knot as a USB MIDI Host for connecting Grid with your hardware MIDI devices is straightforward. You'll need the following things to get started:

Knot
1x Grid module of your choice (-or more of course!) and its respective USB-C cable for power and data
1x MIDI cable, for connecting Knot with the MIDI hardware device (either a 3.5mm TRS cable or a 5-pin DIN MIDI cable with a TRS adapter)


To connect the devices together:
Knot plugged into a power source either through the "USB-C" port or the "DC IN" port
Grid plugged into Knot through the "USB HOST" port
the MIDI hardware device plugged into the "MIDI OUT" of Knot with a MIDI cable

To check if everything's working as it should, look out for the LEDs on the Knot frontplate. When Knot first receives ample power the 3 LEDs will light up in purple for a second. After boot, while a USB device is connected it should be green with the occasional white blip indicating when a message is being sent or received.

Knot hosting other MIDI devices

Using Knot as a USB MIDI Host for connecting Grid with you hardware MIDI devices is straightforward. You'll need the following things to get started:
1x Knot and its respective USB-C cable for power or a DC power adapter
1x USB MIDI Device of your choice
1x MIDI cable, for connecting Knot with the MIDI hardware device (either a 3.5mm TRS cable or a 5-pin DIN MIDI cable with a TRS adapter)

To connect the devices together:

Knot plugged into a power source either through the "USB-C" port or the "DC IN" port
the MIDI device plugged into Knot through the "USB HOST" port
the MIDI hardware device plugged into the "MIDI OUT" of Knot with a MIDI cable

To check if everything's working as it should, look out for the LEDs on the Knot frontplate. When Knot first receives ample power the 3 LEDs will light up in purple for a second. After boot, while a USB device is connected it should be green with the occasional white blip indicating when a message is being sent or received.

Knot TRS MIDI output

For example a synth will usually have one MIDI channel it receives MIDI CC or Note messages on. You can usually set this MIDI channel in the synth's menu.

As a rule of thumb: Devices that can receive MIDI messages, do so by default on MIDI channel 1 or on all channels.

Set this MIDI channel to the same one set in your Hosted Device. In the case of Grid, check the MIDI Action Blocks in Grid Editor and configure them to the same MIDI channel set on your instrument.

TRS MIDI output

The output through the USB Host port will be mirrored (as far as MIDI is concerned) on the TRS MIDI output connector of Knot.

Tech specs

Weight: ~ 120 grams (~ 0,26 lb)
Size: 60mm x 60mm x 10mm (2.36 x 2.36 x 0.39 inches)
Material: black aluminium housing

Portable and lightweight USB MIDI host equipped with:

TRS MIDI input port
TRS MIDI output port
USB-C port for charging and updating the device
Hardware A/B switch for changing the TRS wiring mode
Mode button for updating the firmware
3 indicator LEDs

Notes: From subtle adjustments to expressive performances, this versatile combination of control elements definitely won't disappoint you.

Includes metal shaft faders with medium resistance, smooth-turning knobs and sturdy buttons. Control your most used parameters, like expression, modulation and volume with the PBF4 Grid.

Equipped with customisable multi-coloured LED lights to enable labelling in dark environments. Facilitate differentiating each potmeter by changing the colour of each indicator LED, adjusting brightness levels individually or adding pulsing animations. All configurable in the Grid Editor.

Thanks to its compact and lightweight structure, the PBF4 is a fully ergonomic parameter controller with classical control elements in a slim modular design. Four banks, 4x possible configuration mappings switchable on the fly.

It is recommended that, Grid is connected directly to the computer with the supplied Intech Studio USB-C cable. Some USB hubs may not work with Grid, due to issues with how the various class compliant communication methods establish connection through a hub with the host computer.

Most digital audio workstations can identify Grid as a MIDI controller and appear as a MIDI mappable device. When multiple modules are interconnected, Grid is identified as a single control surface. If the interconnected controllers are plugged in separately into the same Host, they appear as Grid #1, Grid #2 MIDI devices and so forth.

By default, through the Host's MIDI learn functionality, all of the control elements can be mapped. Grid's default firmware uses a unique dynamic assignment, so a 10 module Grid control surface will have unique Channel, Command and CC/Note assignments on each control element.

Grid controllers are shipped with firmware default configuration. To modify the configurations of the controllers, the Grid Editor cross-platform application can be used. Through the Grid Editor, suggested manufacturer profiles and community profiles are also available. Grid has an event driven architecture, where every interaction with the controller triggers an event. The triggered event runs the configured actions, like setting LED colours and intensity.

Events on Grid available for configuration:
Init - when a page is initialized
Potmeter - fader or potentiometer change event
Encoder - rotation of endless encoders
Button - switch button or encoder interaction
Utility - side button
Midi rx - MIDI processing incoming to Grid
Timer - delayed message triggers

Grids are created to suit distinguished workflows. Whether it comes to controlling outboard hardware gear like synthesizers, guitar pedals, and effect boxes, or inboard software such as DAWs, Lightning, and VSTs, a Grid controller is an ideal choice.

Get started with Grid in an instant: just plug in, snap together and play. There is no need for a brain module or any additional software components.

Grid controllers are built with quality control elements. After numerous iterations the potentiometers have been carefully chosen to allow a firm grip and a stable control experience enabled by special shaft bushings.

The modules are made to withstand everyday studio use as well as the intense performances during tours. For connecting several Grids together, a flat surface or the use of our module stands is recommended.

Tech specs

Weight: ~ 175 grams (~ 0,38 lb)
Size: 106 mm x 106 mm (4.19 x 4.19 inches) Eurorack-sized modules
4 audio-grade linear metal shaft faders with 30mm travel
4 conductive, 300- single-turn plastic potentiometers with medium-hard resistance
4 tactile buttons with 1.27i0.49 N operating force
Customizable multi-coloured LED lights for easy labelling in dark environments

Materials

Black aluminium front panel with a metallic, rugged finish
Metal shaft faders equipped with dust cover
Plastic black potentiometers
White tactile plastic buttons
Injection moulded plastic base
Golden spring-loaded connector pins
Strong N52 neodymium magnets
Silicone feet on the back for extra stability

Compatibility

Class compliant MIDI device with simple PnP (Plug and Play) experience
USB HID keyboard class
Compatible with Mac OS (intel & arm), Windows, Linux and mobile platforms with support provided

Powering options

Single USB cable to power up to 8 modules
High speed USB 2.0
Draws ~250mA