8K2 Controller and DM48X MIDI Harmonica

Back in 2020 I built something I called the 8K Controller which was a USB HID device that could send various key commands to a computer. I sold a few of them, but since it could also work as a USB MIDI device I ended up selling one to Jason Keene who is this amazing musician who plays a Lekholm DM48X Digital Chromatic Harmonica. (Yes, a MIDI Harmonica!) He wanted the controller to work with the AUM Audio Mixer on the iPad.

Now I don’t really know anything about the DM48X or AUM, but Jason worked with me to figure out the programming he needed, I wrote the code, sent him a controller, and it all worked! A few other people wanted the same thing, so I made a few more…

Jason had one request though… make it smaller. And I had one issue… the chip shortage. So to solve those two issues I did a redesign, made it a bit smaller, swapped out the microcontroller, designed a new PCB and enclosure, and made the 8K2 Controller. The name might not be great but you can get it on Etsy.

8K2 Controller on Etsy

We’ll program it the same way we did for Jason, and though we can’t offer much support in the way of the setup. It will come with a 10 foot USB cable, some hoock & loop, and a few rubber bumpons. And while we can’t offer much in the way of support for using AUM or the DM48X, Jason is available for that sort of thing, so get in touch with him.

Finally, here’s a great video Jason made showing off his chops and how he uses the 8K2 Controller with his setup.

I’ve said it before, I really love making things for musicians and other creative people, so if you’re looking to try this controller with your setup get in touch or just grab one from the shop.

Buy the 8K2 Controller