A powerful MIDI interface with easy-to-see visual feedback in a highly portable body.
The Livid Block is a compact and programmable MIDI control surface designed for live-performance control with an artistic edge, thanks to interactive LED buttons. Built on the same bi-directional and adaptable platform as the Ohm64, Livid Block controller provides a powerful MIDI interface for creating and interacting with sound in a small, easy-to-transport body. 64 backlight LED buttons provide endless possibilities for visual feedback with the instrument by connecting it to Ableton Live, Max/Msp, our open-source sounds apps, or any other software that supports MIDI. The Livid Block's open source blockEditor application lets you reprogram any of the controller's 64 clip buttons, 8 knobs, 2 faders, and 7 function buttons. Livid Block controller is handcrafted from lightweight wood and aluminum for easy portability.
Livid Block MIDI interface has bi-directional talkback communication allowing the controller to talk to your software, and software to your device. MIDI messages can be sent to the Livid Block to light up the buttons for an interactive performance. Completely programable and mappable, block provides a flexible control surface that be used with any software or setup. This audio interface is completely USB powered meaning you don't have to worry about adapters and power strips, and the controller is plug-and-play so no drivers are required.
Portability
The Livid Block control surface is designed for total portability. Weighing in at only 3 lb. (1.36 kg), it is crafted from lightweight milled jelutong wood and anodized aluminum. The 10.25" (26cm) square by 1.5" (3.8cm) body fits snugly into a laptop case or backpack. Powered by a single USB cable, this Livid MIDI interface will enable you to do a whole set on your laptop without even plugging into the wall.
Design
The Block MIDI interface is designed with a perfectly square layout allowing it to be controlled from all sides. The 8x8 keypad and corresponding 8 knobs make it easy to integrate into your setup. Two faders, 7 function buttons, and an extra-large tap tempo button are provided to control presets, banks, settings, and are completely reprogrammable. The Livid Block's keypads and controls are custom-designed for maximum strength and durability.
Talkback
The Livid Block MIDI controller is completely reprogrammable and the blockEditor provides an interface for changing MIDI assignments of the buttons, sliders, knobs, and LEDs. The editor also provides an LED pattern maker to create custom LED patterns. Source code is open source under a GPL license, and editable in Max/MSP. Livid Block MIDI controller's openness adaptability provides endless possibilities for playing software like Max/MSP, Ableton Live, VJ applications, Livid's open-source sound software, or anything else that supports MIDI.
Livid is constantly creating open-source software tools for the Block MIDI controller such as a synth, sampler, sequencer, and Max for Live patches.
