Incorporating Encoders: Rotary Control & Use Cases

Encoders are one of the most powerful and versatile components you can add to your Yaeltex controller. Unlike a standard knob (potentiometer) which has a fixed start and end, an encoder offers endless rotation. This unique characteristic makes it the perfect tool for navigation, browsing, and making infinite adjustments.

This guide will explain the Yaeltex encoder element, its most common applications, and the deep customization it offers.

Why Use an Encoder?

The power of an encoder lies in its limitless movement. You can turn it forever in either direction, making it ideal for tasks that don't have a simple 0-127 value. Furthermore, every Yaeltex encoder includes an integrated push-button, creating a powerful "browse and select" action with a single component.

Common Use Cases:

• Browsing & Navigation:
• • Use Case: Scrolling through long sample libraries, effect presets, or instrument patches.
  • Paired Push-Button Action: Press the encoder to load the selected sound or preset.
• Timeline & Clip Control:
• • Use Case: Navigating your DAW's timeline, zooming in and out of the arrangement, or scrolling through scenes in Ableton Live.
  • Paired Push-Button Action: Press to play/stop from the current position or launch the selected scene.
• Fine-Tuning Parameters:
• • Use Case: Making precise, step-by-step adjustments to your project's BPM, a delay time, or a synth's fine-tune parameter.
  • Paired Push-Button Action: Press to reset the parameter to its default value or to engage/disengage tap tempo.

The Yaeltex Encoder Element

Our primary encoder element is a sophisticated module designed for rich interaction and visual feedback.

• Factory IDs: EE-41, EP-41
• Description: This element contains four metallic, detented rotary encoders. "Detented" means you will feel a subtle "click" for each step of rotation, providing excellent tactile feedback for precise adjustments.
• Rich Visual Feedback: Each encoder is surrounded by a 13-segment RGB LED ring, which can be programmed to show a parameter's value, modulation, or other states. The integrated push-button also has its own RGB LED.

Configuring in Kilowhat

The true depth of the encoder is revealed in our Kilowhat software. Its behavior is highly configurable:

• Rotation Modes: You can set different "relative" modes that determine how many steps are sent per rotation, allowing you to configure them for fast scrolling or ultra-fine adjustments.
• Push-Button Behavior: The switch can be configured as either Momentary (active only while pressed) or Toggle (alternating on/off with each press).
• Advanced LED Feedback: The RGB LED ring can be configured to respond in complex ways, such as lighting up to show a track's volume meter, or different feedback modes.

By incorporating encoders into your design, you add a layer of powerful, dynamic control that excels at navigation and precise parameter tweaking, making your controller a true command center.

Updated on: 26/06/2025