Touchord DIY Kit Brings Open-Source Chord Controller to Builders

Touchord arrived on the DIY synth scene as a ready-to-build, fully open-source chord-generating MIDI controller that aims to simplify chord performance while remaining highly moddable. The project opened pre-orders on December 27, 2025, offering three kit configurations that let you choose how much assembly and sourcing you want to handle.

At the simplest level the PCB Only option provides the printed circuit board with pre-soldered components, letting you supply your own sensors, switches, and enclosure. The Basic Kit adds a Bela Trill Bar and an SSD1306 display to the PCB Only package, giving you touch-sensing hardware and an on-board information display without hunting down parts. The Full Kit bundles everything in the Basic Kit plus 13 Cherry MX-style switches, seven 3U stabilizers, and a screw set, so you receive a near-complete build ready for assembly. The Full Kit was offered for pre-order at $180 USD; check the project site for pricing and details for all versions.

Practically, Touchord is designed to reduce the friction of exploring harmony and chord textures. As a chord-generating MIDI controller it routes chord structures to synths or software instruments, freeing you to focus on performance and sound design rather than fingerings. Being fully open-source means the hardware and firmware can be adapted; builders can customize layouts, firmware behavior, and physical interfaces to suit live rigs, studios, or teaching setups. The use of readily available components makes repairs and upgrades straightforward, and the kit structure lowers the bar for makers who want a finished instrument without sourcing every part.

For the community, Touchord answers a clear demand: a hands-on, modifiable controller that prioritizes musical function and accessibility. You can choose the level of involvement that suits your skills and goals, whether you prefer to source your own keys and enclosures or receive a ready-to-assemble pack. The inclusion of a Bela Trill Bar and OLED display in the Basic and Full Kits points to an interface designed for tactile control and visual feedback on stage or in the studio.

If you plan to build one, check the project site for kit specifics, shipping windows, and any firmware resources provided by the developers. Touchord’s combination of open-source design, modular kit options, and practical focus on chord performance makes it a notable addition to the vintage and modern synth DIY toolkit.