How Many Buttons are Enough?

One of the most intimidating audio interfaces for beginners is the conventional mixing board -- the Neve console at the studio where I used to work had well over a thousand knobs, buttons, and faders. (We used to record settings by snapping Polaroid photos.) At the same time, having one control for each function can make a device easier to use.

The problem, I think, may lie in presenting too many options. I had to laugh when I saw this over-engineered toilet in Tokyo last week. Someone at the office felt compelled to label it with a PostIt note so others wouldn't be confused.

With buttons for everything from bidet-squirt to massage, this Tokyo toilet intimidated even Japanese readers. The PostIt note helps visitors home in on the essential Big Flush and Tiny Flush buttons.