What is it?

The Grid 64 DIY: Compact Breakout Edition is an 8×8 button matrix controller designed for the monome ecosystem. This 64-key grid connects via USB-C and provides customizable LED feedback with variable brightness and color temperature. Encased in a premium 3D-printed shell using Kexcelled artistic filament, the device measures just 12.5mm thick and features gold-immersed circuit boards for durability. Each unit carries a unique serial number. Compatible with norns, serialosc (Mac Intel/M1 and Windows 10/11), teletype, and ansible, this grid serves as a portable foundation for music and visual applications in Max/MSP, modular synth environments, and embedded systems.

Why did you make it?

This project emerged from the need for an ultra-portable, cost-effective entry point into the monome ecosystem. While commercial 128-grid units offer full functionality, they represent a significant investment and aren't always practical for travel or casual experimentation. The 64-grid format provides the essential monome experience at minimal cost, making it accessible for DIY builders, Max developers creating custom applications, and musicians wanting to explore norns scripts without committing to larger hardware. The design prioritizes "breakout" accessibility—enabling creators to go from zero to a working grid with minimal friction, while maintaining compatibility with the broader monome platform.

What makes it special?

Unmatched Portability – At 12.5mm thin, this is one of the slimmest functional grids available, slipping easily into laptop bags or backpacks. Premium Materials – The Kexcelled artistic filament housing offers superior finish and durability compared to standard printed cases, while gold-immersed PCBs ensure long-term reliability. Visual Authenticity – Adjustable LED coloring accurately reproduces the aesthetic signature of legacy monome devices, from classic orange to modern white variants. Broad Compatibility – Works seamlessly across platforms: norns (with minor limitations due to grid size), serialosc on modern Mac and Windows systems, teletype scripts, and ansible modules. DIY Ethos – As a build-it-yourself solution, it empowers users to understand their hardware while providing a blank canvas for personal customization and hacking. Sweet Spot for Development – The 8×8 format is ideal for prototyping in Max/MSP, where full 128-button control isn't required but authentic monome protocol compatibility is essential. Note: For ansible users requiring full parameter control, the 128-grid version is strongly recommended due to button count limitations.