Hmm, just a thought -
Maybe look at something like the Novation Launchpad controllers ( I "think" the pads are fully programmable - might be worth a visit to the the Novation website), and combine with something like the Korg NanoKontrol to give you some knobs and faders.
Compact, and based on prices I've seen online at Sweetwater, you could get both for under $200 USD.
Or, you could get the APC 40, use a MIDI translator in the mix for use with QuickShow, and be all set when you move up to Beyond sometime down the road...
RR
Metrologic HeNe 3.3mw Modulated laser, 2 Radio Shack motors, and a broken mirror.
1979.
Sweet.....