Dawdlehorn - Digital Audio Workstation Context

Project Overview

Dawdlehorn is a web-based Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) / Groovebox / musical instrument controlled via gamepad input. It's designed to provide an intuitive, game-like interface for music creation and performance.

Core Requirements

Gamepad Control: Primary interface using Web Gamepad API
Audio Processing: Real-time audio synthesis and effects using Web Audio API
MIDI Integration: External MIDI device support via Web MIDI API
Web-based: Runs in modern browsers with no installation required
Real-time Performance: Low-latency audio for live performance use

Target User Experience

Intuitive gamepad-based music creation
Real-time audio feedback and manipulation
Groovebox-style workflow (pattern-based sequencing)
Accessible to both musicians and non-musicians
Performance-oriented interface

Technical Constraints

Must work in modern web browsers
Low audio latency requirements
Gamepad compatibility across different controllers
Responsive real-time interface
No server-side processing (client-side only)

Success Criteria

Responsive gamepad input with minimal latency
High-quality audio output
Intuitive user interface
Stable performance during extended use
Cross-browser compatibility