Integrating Faders: Options & Use Cases

Faders are the heart of any mixing console and a powerful tool for linear control on a MIDI controller. They provide an intuitive, visual, and tactile way to manage parameters that benefit from a straight-line motion, making them a top choice for controlling volumes, envelopes, and more.

This guide covers the different fader options available in the Yaeltex Factory, their common use cases, and how they can be integrated into your custom design.

Why Use a Fader?

Unlike a knob's rotational movement, a fader's linear travel provides an immediate and clear visual representation of its value. This makes faders exceptionally good for comparing the relative levels of multiple parameters at a glance. All our faders are high-quality, metal-shaft components designed for a smooth feel and long life.

Common Use Cases:

• Mixing: The classic use for faders is controlling track volume levels in a DAW's mixer.
• Sound Design: Perfect for shaping ADSR (Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release) envelopes on a synthesizer or sampler.
• Performance: Visually managing multiple effect sends, controlling drawbars on an organ VST, or blending layers of sound.

Fader Types

We offer a range of fader elements to suit different needs, from long-throw precision to compact layouts.

100mm Long Faders

These faders provide a full 10cm of travel, offering maximum precision for smooth, subtle adjustments. Their low mechanical resistance makes them feel like the faders on a professional mixing console.

• Factory IDs: FD-21-100 (element of 2 faders), FD-41M-100 (element of 4 faders)
• Best For: Building a dedicated DAW mixer, studio centerpiece controllers, or any application where fine control is paramount.

45mm Classic Faders

A great all-around fader with a satisfying medium resistance and a 45mm travel path. They provide a perfect balance between size and control.

• Factory ID: FD-41-45
• Best For: General-purpose control, synth parameter editing, or when you need more faders than a long-throw layout allows.

45mm Mini Faders

Designed for maximum space efficiency, these compact faders have a 45mm travel path and are perfect for dense layouts. They are designed to align perfectly with our Mini Potentiometer and Mini Button elements.

• Factory ID: FD-41M-45
• Best For: Compact travel rigs, secondary parameter controls, or building a high-density "fader bank."

Crossfader

This is not a standard fader. It's a premium, ultra-durable capacitive innoFader with polished steel rails and a solid 8mm steel stem. It's engineered to withstand the intense, repetitive action of scratch DJs.

• Factory ID: XFD-INNO
• Best For: The master crossfader on a DJ controller.

Visual Customization

In the Factory's Appearance View, you can customize the look of your faders:

• Fader Caps: Choose from different colors for the physical fader caps.
• Faceplate Markings: Design custom markings on the faceplate next to the fader slot, like a dB scale or percentage markers.
• Text Labels: Add a text label to identify the fader's function (e.g., "MASTER," "VOCALS," "SYNTH ENV").

Configuring in Kilowhat

Once your controller is built, you will use our Kilowhat software to program the function of each fader. For each one, you can define:

• The specific MIDI CC (Control Change) number it will send.
• The MIDI Channel it will transmit on.
• The Value Range (0-127).
• Advanced Modes like "Split Mode," which can turn a single fader into two separate controllers.

By selecting the right fader type for your needs, you can build a highly intuitive and visually informative control surface that streamlines your creative process.

Updated on: 26/06/2025