MOTU 828/Traveler feature request

[Michael Labay]

Hi,
I wanted to throw out a suggestion for MOTU to implement a feature that I think many would benefit from.

I think the 828mkII and Traveler interfaces could be incredibly
cost-effective IEM (in-ear monitor) mixers, in addition to live and
recording interfaces if they would allow me to control individual
channel-to-output buss assignments via external MIDI protocol.

I want to connect several MIDI control surfaces, each communicating
individually to the 828. Each MIDI controller would individually
control pan and volume and maybe even channel assignments to separate discrete stereo pairs of outputs (to be fed to individual IEM's)

With external MIDI control, up to 4 or 5 stereo pairs could be remotely
mixed without a computer via inexpensive MIDI continuous controller
boxes or keyboard sliders, then the stereo audio pairs could be routed
to either traditional headphone amps or wireless IEM transmitters. 4-5
musicians could each then "mix" their own IEM's.

I understand the CueMix direct input to output mix of the 828mkII and
Traveler can be controlled via a Mackie HUI compliant device. The
interface must be connected to a Mac or Windows computer in for this
capability to work. You can use multiple control surfaces to access
multiple interfaces. You can remotely control volume and pan. Output
assignments must be made from the computer screen.

But HUI compliant controllers cost >$600+ each...and this requires a
computer...

Make it so that I can control the pan and volumes via simple MIDI
slider boxes. MIDI slider boxes that can be programmed for continuous
controller values. Boxes that only cost around $120-150 bucks each.

About 10 years ago, I wanted this capability for my band, but there
were no digital mixers that could accomplish this. In my frustration, I
devised the following system:

I am merging five Knobby controllers:

http://www.encoreelectronics.com/cont_knob1.html

into a MIDI merge box, then connecting to two Fostex DCM-100 digital
line mixers (circa 1991)

http://www.cassiel.com/gearhead/dcm100.html

My AMR rackmount mixer has direct outs on all the input channels, so I
run jumpers from the AMR channels to the Fostex DCM-100 inputs.

Oh, and no computer is needed.

But it's almost 2006, and I'd rather run my Knobbys into a shiny, new
MOTU 828mkIII or Traveler...

Of all the low to midrange digital mixers on the market (Yamaha,
Behringer, Tascam, etc) The MOTU 828 comes closest to offering small
bands, combos and project studios a cost effective way to mix IEMs
without the high cost of digital distros (e.g. Hearback, Aviom,
Intelix) or the bulky cabling of analog systems (i.e.,Furman).

Each system just mentioned require the user to purchase proprietary
mixers, most costing ~$500.00, with the "brain" running around
600-1000.

If anyone on this 'board has some pull with the MOTU engineers, please
request this feature! Thanks,

Michael Labay