nOb is a precise, generic, endless knob controller. It was designed with the author in mind, who wants to adjust any type of parameter during demanding media production. The developers have set up a Kickstarter project to get the investment to bring this innovative idea into production. Thanks to community member Ainsley Kraken for bringing this to our attention.

nOb is able to control almost any parameter you would normally adjust with your mouse, delivering out-of-the-box compatibility with any operating system and software package. You simply have to point your mouse cursor to the parameter you want to control and use nOb's big knob to fine-tune it to taste. Based on the current mode of operation, any draggable interface element found in modern media production software can be controlled, including sliders, scrollbars, knobs or even draggable value indicators.

All the electronics are housed inside a durable, hand crafted, hardwood mahogany enclosure.  Its knob and toggle switches are touch sensitive allowing for some really neat productivity features, like e.g. double tapping the big knob to undo the last adjustment, touching the right toggle switch to temporarily flip the operation mode and many more!

oNb Feature Overview

• With up to 2400 counts per rotation, nOb delivers precise adjustment even in the most demanding fine-tuning situations.

• No matter what type of screen element you want to adjust, there is certainly a way to do it with nOb.

• By emulating a Human Interface Device, nOb works with any computer system that can host a USB keyboard or mouse.

• By using nOb's open serial interface, developers may write software to customise its functionality and extend its features.

• All hardware parts can be unscrewed and taken apart, allowing for hacks and other modifications.

• It does not only look vintage, it feels that way. Smoothness and responsiveness are part of that feel.

My Comments

This looks very interesting, I am not one for large control surfaces, or even small ones, having tried both a Command 8 and an Artist Control.  I prefer a range of small devices around me depending on what I am doing.  I like the look of this and although in essence it is mimicking the mouse scroll wheel it will help me lift my hand off the mouse and use a proper rotary control, which has two advantages it helps to reduce RSI as I am moving my right hand and holding something else and it is a more natural control to adjust with.

What do you think? Will this find a home in your workflow?  Or is it a gimmick?