Expressive Control with Joysticks

Break free from one-dimensional control and add a new layer of organic movement to your performance with a joystick. A joystick allows you to intuitively control two different parameters at the same time with a single, fluid motion, unlocking a world of expressive possibilities that are impossible with individual knobs or faders.

This guide will cover the two types of joysticks we offer, their most powerful use cases, and how they can become a centerpiece for dynamic sound manipulation.

Why Use a Joystick?

The magic of a joystick is its ability to map the X-axis (left-to-right) and Y-axis (up-and-down) to two separate MIDI messages simultaneously. This allows you to explore the relationship between two parameters, creating complex and evolving sounds with a natural, human feel.

Common Use Cases:

• X/Y Effects Control: This is the classic use. Imagine controlling a filter's cutoff frequency on the X-axis and its resonance on the Y-axis. As you move the joystick, you can create dynamic, sweeping filter effects that would normally require two hands. Other examples include controlling a delay's time and feedback, or a reverb's size and mix level.
• Vector & Wavetable Synthesis: Control the blend between multiple oscillators or navigate a wavetable's X/Y position. This allows you to create complex, evolving timbres with a single gesture.
• Live Automation Recording: Easily record complex automation for two parameters in your DAW in a single take, capturing a more natural and fluid performance than you could by drawing curves with a mouse.

Joystick Types

We offer two distinct types of analog joysticks, each with a metal shaft for durability and a specific behavior suited to different tasks.

Fixed Joystick (Return-to-Center)

This joystick has an internal spring that automatically pulls it back to the center position when you let go. It behaves exactly like a classic pitch-bend wheel on a synthesizer.

• Factory ID: JOY-SPG
• Best For: Momentary effects, pitch bending, temporary modulations, or any parameter that you want to return to a default state as soon as you release the control.

Loose Joystick (Stays in Position)

This joystick has no spring and will stay in whatever position you leave it. It behaves like a traditional modulation wheel or the X/Y pad on a Kaoss Pad.

• Factory ID: JOY-LOO
• Best For: "Set and forget" parameters, controlling the blend between sound sources, or any effect where you want to find a "sweet spot" and leave it there.

Configuring in Kilowhat

The true power of the joystick is customized in our Kilowhat software. For each joystick, you can define:

• Independent MIDI Messages: Assign a unique MIDI CC (Control Change) number to the X-axis and a different one to the Y-axis.
• Custom Value Ranges: This is a crucial feature. Instead of having the joystick always send values from 0-127, you can limit its range. For example, you could configure the filter cutoff (X-axis) to only sweep between the most musical values of 40 and 90, giving you finer control over the most important part of the range.

By adding a joystick to your controller, you are adding a powerful tool for performance and expression, allowing you to manipulate sound in a way that is both intuitive and deeply engaging.

Updated on: 26/06/2025