ROLI Airwave: Spatial Expression for the Modern Controllerist

ROLI introduces the Airwave as a controller designed to push expressive sound control into new territory. At its core, Airwave uses dual infrared cameras to track 27 joints in each hand, capturing nuanced gestures in real time. This hardware foundation enables a level of physical interaction that goes far beyond traditional MIDI faders or XY pads.

The video opens with a quick tour of the Airwave’s physical layout, highlighting its USB-C data and power ports, audio out, and sustain pedal input. ROLI’s typical focus on seamless integration is evident: the device is designed to work both as a standalone controller and as a companion to ROLI’s own Seaboard and Piano M keyboards. The sustain port, in particular, allows for full two-handed expression even with keyboards lacking their own sustain input.

The video systematically introduces Airwave’s suite of Air Gestures, each designed to control a different aspect of sound. Air Raise, the primary gesture, maps vertical hand movement to dramatic changes like filter cutoff, offering immediate and tactile control. Air Tilt adds another layer, allowing users to introduce vibrato or subtle modulations by tilting their hands outward, with the system tracking values from 0% to 100%.

Air Glide enables side-to-side movement above the keys, which can trigger alternate voicings or modulate effects, while Air Slide translates forward and backward hand motion into parameter shifts—such as dropping a choral layer by an octave. Air Flex, achieved by flexing the hands downward, brings in effects like granular delay or shimmering layers, adding sparkle to the sound. Finally, Air Grasp uses a fist-clenching motion to cut notes or reduce volume, supporting staccato and choppy playing techniques.

What stands out architecturally is Airwave’s per-hand tracking and prioritization logic: the system always takes the highest value for each dimension, allowing independent control with each hand. When mapped in third-party software, each hand’s gestures are sent as separate MIDI CCs, enabling up to ten simultaneous assignments and highly intricate modulation schemes.

A key part of Airwave’s workflow is its visual feedback system, shown in the Airwave Player app. Light trail effects attached to each finger provide a clear, real-time visualization of which notes are being played and which dimensions are being controlled. This not only helps users understand the mapping between gesture and sound but also reinforces the sense of physical connection with the instrument.

By linking visual cues to both hand position and sustained notes, Airwave makes it easier for performers to internalize complex mappings and develop muscle memory. The result is a more intuitive and immersive creative experience, especially for those new to spatial or gestural control.