where to start building my own controller?

I have been producing for about 9 years(Breakbeat), just in the last 2-3 months I've really gotten into controllerism, as a means to perform my own material live. I've re-configured my remote sl 25 to a custom template for ableton performance, then I got a nocturn as a second controller for the crossfader as I've come up with a real solid scratch emuation instrument system using the grain delay and some pitch shifters, it's sounding great.

now the problem, none of the controllers that I have have any buttons suitable for quick cut/killswitch style use.

I want to build a box about 6in X 10in and have about 6-8 arcade buttons and an better x/y pad than the novation if possible, one that can send on/off messages if possible. 2 sets of 3-4 buttons on the right side, an x/y on the left and maybe a ribbon controller along the botton, depending on the costs and the amount of extra hassle involved.

I'm looking for everything from advice based on personal experience building these types of controls, or possibly a reference to someone or someplace that I can get direct help from, or a buisness that will build small custom controllers, whatever it takes to get this made properly pretty much.

I just want something about the size of the nocturn that has arcade buttons and an x/y so I can put them side by side in front of my remote sl and then fucking jam.


I'm using the little rubber buttons on the nocturn for cut/kill, its really really annoying.

I live in the SF bay area, Martinez, in Contra Costa to be specific. I've never built my own controller before and don't want to blow the cash on a failed project.

[email protected]

www.myspace.com/michaelohagan912

thanks in advance for any help.