TC-01 Dac + Amp
Tactility in music streaming.
Company
GT BSID
My Role
Designer w/ Cynthia Li
Tools
Figma · Fusion · Keyshot
Timeline
Jan 2025 - May 2025
Description
A music device reconnecting listeners with music through a tactile interface and analog controls.
Context
Today, 69% of people listen to music with streaming services. Yet, at the same time, vinyl revenues have grown for two decades, pointing to a resurging desire for physical, tangible listening experiences. In a world where music has become increasingly digital, we questioned:
How might we bring back tactility while retaining the convenience of modern music streaming?
Physicality in Music Playing?
A range of interaction models and form factors were explored, testing how physical gestures could create engagement with music.
The concept of a moving digital tape was chosen for its metaphorical and functional resonance, nodding to the cassette.
Prototyping & Testing
Rounds of prototyping and testing were done, from fast paper mock-ups produced for scale and concept visualization in rapid form testing to functional models with button for a physical control interface following user feedback.
User Flow
Form + CMF Inspiration
TC-01 | Outcome
TACTILE PLAYBACK CONTROL
On the right side, physical buttons control Play/Pause, Volume, Skip, Shuffle/Repeat, and Favorites. Their tactile feedback makes each action feel intentional, enhancing the overall user experience.
LAYERED LIBRARY NAVIGATION
At the top front, a Red Button and Scroll Track form the main interface, letting users easily move between tracks, browse within playlists, or explore others. The scroll track enables smooth, screen-free navigation.
SEGMENTED I/O MANAGEMENT
On the rear, Power, Input, and Output buttons sit above each port, allowing users to switch between sources and route audio to speakers and headphones. The clear layout ensures setup and transitions are simple.
Credit
Team Member
Cynthia Li
Special Thanks
Lisa Marks