The Doepfer We wheel is a MIDI controller interpreter - basically it takes resistance or switch values/states in from a potentiometer, fader or switch and converts them to MIDI messages. This was purchased for the building of a prototype for a Make Magazine 'Maker Faire' event. Speedy fabrication of the prototype was essential, and the Doepfer We did not disappoint.
It comes as a raw circuit board in a box with some associated cabling and a PSU. The normal static-sensitive precautions need to be observed as there are CMOS chips on the board - so use your grounding wrist strap and don't be that guy/gal! I put mine in a metal case mounted on some PCB risers and machined access holes for the PSU, MIDI and MIDI Activity LED. I was using my We to interpret the messages from a joystick controller - and the time-consuming part was fabricating this controller. The We was set up and issuing MIDI messages in about 3 minutes - far faster than using an Arduino or a PIC if you just want MIDI in a hurry, reliability and no fuss! The controller and Doepfer We were treated roughly all day by patrons at the fair and neither failed once. I have incorporated it into my live rig as a controller.
So the Doepfer We gives you a high-quality MIDI controller in a bulletproof format. It is easy to configure and set-up and does not fail.