Launched today, Zayik is a new website that allows controllerists to design their own MIDI controller within a web interface. The brainchild of a handful of cool smaller music technology companies, Zayik is a fun and simple tool that is great for taking simple ideas for controllers and assembling them. More information, our thoughts, and links after the jump!
While not the end-all-be-all in terms of designing MIDI controllers, Zayik (pronounce it like “mosaic”) is a great tool to test ideas on and making controllers that fit your workflow. Take it for a spin yourself by starting out on one of their pre-populated templates, or start from scratch!
DJ Mixer Template
Production Template
Blank Template
What we like:
- Simple interface, easy to get started.
- Ability to save ideas and come back to them later.
What we think it needs:
- iOS support: I immediately tried to test their site out on a iPad so I could pretend like I was using the controller. Sadly, the interface isn’t compatible!
- Interface design help: for a product all about designing awesome controllers, it looks like a 1990s web interface.
- More interface elements: Where are the arcade buttons, touch strips, joysticks and our awesome-looking knobs (couldn’t resist).
Naturally, when you’re finished designing your controller, you can send it to Zayik and they’ll give you a quote on how much it would cost for them to build – but be warned, custom controllers can get pretty pricey!
