Digit Music releases arcade-style MIDI, Cmpsr
“A tool designed to make music and creativity accessible to anyone.”
UK-based music and tech start-up Digit Music has unveiled its inaugural hardware device, Cmpsr (pronounced “composer”). It combines cutting-edge technology with handcrafted care, catering to musicians of all levels.
The Cmpsr is a joystick-operated MIDI instrument featuring Bluetooth connection, cable-free control and assignable pads.
Focusing on user-friendliness and unique design, its arcade-style joystick — one you’d typically find when playing Pacman — is joined only by eight programmable pads. This minimalist design allows the device to be played only through intuitive finger gestures.
It fuses musical know-how and gaming design to create a one-of-a-kind instrument, cutting out the complications usually found with other MIDI controllers. See it in action below.
Cmpsr boasts an impressive five-octave range and incorporates built-in key/scale/chord engines, ensuring the artist always remains in key. By distilling the power of a traditional keyboard into a portable, handheld device, this wireless instrument effortlessly connects to any compatible device, making it essential for beatmakers on the move.
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Digit Music defines itself as a disability-confident business with a vision to inspire and allow anyone to enjoy the positivity of creating music without unnecessary barriers. Initially created for musicians with accessibility needs, Cmpsr is the first-ever MIDI controller to be awarded a Tech4Good Accessibility Award.
The company’s groundbreaking efforts have led to TEDx Talks invitations and collaborations with esteemed ensembles such as the Able Orchestra alongside the BBC Philharmonic and Halle Orchestras.
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Digit Music Co-Founder, Si Tew, mentions “Music is part of the cultural landscape, and everyone should have the opportunity to play, so we created Cmpsr, a tool designed to make music and creativity accessible to anyone.”
Priced at US$299, Cmpsr is available now via Digit Music’s website here.
Henry Cooper is an Editorial Intern at Mixmag Asia. Follow him on Instagram.
