Sure. I started with the Doepfer matrix mixer, where everything is aligned on a grid and makes complete sense:
When I want to adjust the amount of input 2 going to output C, it’s immediately obvious which knob to turn.
Then I switched to the AI008, which is a 4-input, 3-output matrix where the jacks don’t align with the knobs, and there is a fourth output jack that confuses matters, a basically useless mix of A+B+C outputs.
Also the font is smaller and thinner, and unless I move it to one of the top rows in my case, the angle is such that the knob markings are hidden by the knobs themselves (they’re tall).
If I want to adjust the knob for input 2 going to output C, I have to think about it, kind of do a geometric transform or count off and I find the process just slows me down. I wound up using Bananuts and pinstripe tape to make color associations between the input jacks and the rows, and to sort of “black out” the A+B+C jack:
The color coding is an improvement, but to me it seems like the CVilization would be as good or better. It makes the two steps of choosing the input and then adjusting the output (or vice versa) more explicit.
In terms of features, CVilization takes me back up to 4x4, it can invert (handy for feedback loops), and it can mute inputs and outputs. And for CV purposes it can quantize, sample+hold, and transpose. I could conceivably use it as a 2x2 feedback mixer while also quantizing a signal on input/output 3, and having a transpose switch for a drone on output 4.
