Multi-criteria decision-aided analysis of the electroencephalograph for assistive audio mixing

Brain–computer interfacing (BCI) offers novel methods to facilitate participation in music production, providing access for individuals who might otherwise be unable to take part (either due to lack of training or physical disability). This article describes the development of a BCI system for conscious or ‘active’, control of parameters on an audio mixer by generation of synchronous MIDI Machine Control messages. The mapping between neurophysiological cues and audio parameters must be intuitive for a neophyte audience (i.e. one without prior training or the physical skills developed by professional audio engineers when working with tactile interfaces). The prototype pilot system, dubbed MINDMIX (a portmanteau of ‘mind’ and ‘mixer’), was subsequently evaluated by neophyte and experienced music producers across utility and mapping congruency. Neophyte participants rated the system higher in utility than experienced participants, whilst both groups rated mapping congruency similarly. Assuming a degree of synonymy between utility and usefulness, and between congruency and intuitiveness, this suggests that whilst the system might be useful for the neophyte audience, experienced users are likely to exhibit a preference for existing technology over the MINDMIX system. In the future, specific evaluation of discrete mappings would be useful for iterative system design.