> there is already a fantastic external-controller-to-software bridge available via MIDI

So you got that part figured out I suppose.

> super cool analog controllers

There is a lot of "cool" midi controllers out there. Examples:

- Modular: https://special-waves.com/ or https://jouemusic.com/

- Tactile: https://roli.com/products/blocks/lightpad-block-studio-editi...

However, I'm not sure that coolness translates to controlling non-musical apps

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PS : If you are on windows, I find using a large touch screen to be a good tactile desktop experience (sometimes). You can even create a custom UI setup with TouchOSC.