Don Buchla's Marimba Lumina is one of many in the family of MIDI controllers consisting of specialized control surfaces which are manipulated by specialized controllers. More than one version exists, with similar characteristics.
Performers known for playing the Marimba Lumina include Joel Davel of the Paul Dresher Ensemble, Vessela Stoyanova of Fluttr Effect, and Max Lord. The Residents have also used it on tour.
Control Surface: Velocity-, position-, and contact-sensitive bars are laid out in an array similar to a conventional marimba. Additional controller strips and pads provide enhanced functionality.
Controller: Specialized color-coded mallets must be used as the surface will not recognize conventional ones.