It’s really a blank slate, so there’s a range of what’s possible here.

Those computers are so cheap because they’re produced in unbelievably huge quantities. And much as I enjoy and advocate the latest and greatest, part of that is possible only because people treat computers as disposable. Production is also very often unsustainable, in terms of the environmental impact it has and the way materials are sourced and transported. That’s not just a pro-environment argument: I think there’s a good chance this will prove *literally* unsustainable.

I’m not saying don’t buy the computer, or that the Monome, which by definition is produced in small quantities, will change the system. But it’s a reminder of the economic reasons we have these price disparities.

One thing I can’t explain: why certain lower-quality, plastic-y controllers actually cost *more* than Monome. ;)

Anyway, if $450 is too steep, do what a lot of us are doing and get the kit for half the price. You’ll still wind up out a few hundred by the time you’re finished with manufacture — but on the other hand, you’ll have a one-of-a-kind item.

Also, you know we’re absolutely advocates of super-cheap solutions — see Michael’s $10 foot controller. So don’t get me wrong: if you don’t have the money to spend $450 on a Monome, get the $100 device, the $10 device, whatever gets you making music. We don’t *need* any of this stuff. But whatever you spend, I’m all for getting something that is meaningful and doesn’t feel disposable. That could be the rescued $10 QWERTY foot controller, too.

M-.-n, unless GP2x supports serial over USB, I guess you’d need to add MIDI ports to make that self contained? Hmmm…

so much possibilities.. I need 48h/day !