MIDI Controller + Audio Interface

Planned

This App is not yet available. It represents what becomes possible when the TBD-16’s dual-processor architecture is used as a bridge between hardware and software – rather than as a standalone instrument.

The MIDI Controller + Audio Interface App turns the TBD-16 into the perfect companion for an iPhone, iPad, or laptop. One USB-C cable connects the device and provides MIDI control, stereo audio input, and stereo audio output simultaneously.

At a Glance

Status

Planned

RP2350 firmware

MIDI controller firmware (planned)

ESP32-P4

USB audio interface mode (no DSP)

SD card file

tbd-apps/midi_audio.uf2 (planned)

Tags

Controller, MIDI, Audio, Planned

What It Will Do

  • 30 buttons → MIDI CC – every button on the TBD-16 sends configurable MIDI control messages

  • 4 encoders → MIDI CC – continuous control with push-button support

  • OLED display – shows the current mapping, parameter names, or feedback from the connected app

  • Stereo audio in + out – the ESP32-P4 operates as a USB Audio Class compliant interface (no drivers needed on iOS/iPadOS/macOS)

  • Single USB-C cable – MIDI and audio travel over the same connection

Why This Matters

Most hardware MIDI controllers do not include an audio interface. Most USB audio interfaces do not have programmable buttons. The TBD-16 can be both at the same time because it has two processors:

  • The RP2350 handles MIDI and the hardware UI (buttons, encoders, display)

  • The ESP32-P4 handles USB audio (ADC/DAC, sample rate conversion, USB Audio Class)

The result: connect your TBD-16 to an iPad running GarageBand, AUM, or any other audio/MIDI app. The TBD-16’s hardware becomes a tactile controller for that app, and the TBD-16’s audio I/O becomes the iPad’s sound card. All over one cable.

Use Cases

  • iPad/iPhone music production – control synth apps with physical knobs while monitoring through the TBD-16’s audio output

  • Live performance – use the TBD-16 as a MIDI controller + mixer input for your laptop DAW

  • Standalone recording – route audio through the TBD-16 and back to the computer for monitoring and recording