TX816 Controller: Build Diary (last update 2025-12-12)

Here the short minutes about current builds and when you can expect your device. Newest posts are at the bottom.

2025-09-03

Controller #2 is finished, reserved for Matti on May 25.

#1 is my own device that you can see in my YT videos. Next build actually will be a VL1 controller for Greg, reserved on July 25. Then comes controller #3 for Robert.

2025-09-15

Here the full set of used PCBs.

• PCB for the encoders and OLED displays, two layers of copper
• LEDs and push buttons
• redesigned MIDI I/O plus audio preamplifier
• Arduino DUE (80Mhz version of the Arduino Mega.
• TFT display with SD card

All these components will be manually wire-wrapped with around 80 cables

I received a batch of warm white LEDs, the next devices will have white lights instead of red.

2025-10-01

Now finished the VL1 controller for Greg. The new LEDs are quite nice, remind me to small light bulbs.

2025-10-19

Finishing #3 for Robert, here all connections wire-wrapped.

2025-10-30

Starting devices #4 and #5 for Scott and Deaton

Firmware reworked:

• automatically sending MIDI panic, when Notes On detected while switching modules.
• File > selectDir starting at 101 if in single program mode, else at 100 (multi directory)
• Edited cc7 Volumes of all modules are also stored in the multi file.

2025-11-15

The two front panels ready for assembly into the case and final wiring.

2025-12-10

… device #4 finished and sent by DHL Express. Continue with #5.

2025-12-14

Device #5 finished. Making final tests to ship before Christmas. Next devices #6 and #7 are planned for Preston and Stefan.

Firmware extended by a new “Oberheim” mode: Random.