Like most computer-based post production tasks, color correction is done most efficiently with some sort of interactive, tactile hardware tool. In other words, a control panel.

The only problem is that these color correction panels have traditionally been extremely expensive, and most of them still are. For example, the DaVinci Resolve control surface comes in at a whopping $30K, or roughly the price of a brand new Chevrolet Impala. While there are lower-end solutions ranging between $1000 and $2000, up until now there hasn't been something truly affordable that beginners and "occasional colorists" could use without opting for a bulky expensive panel.

At an expected price of $350, the Tangent Ripple will be far and away the least expensive control panel on the market, and the best option for low-budget filmmakers, students, and editors looking to bolster their color correction abilities. Here are the basic features of the Ripple:

3 trackerballs with dials for masters.

High resolution optical pick-ups for the balls and dials.

Independent reset buttons for the balls and dials.

Programmable A and B buttons.

USB powered with integral cable.

Light-weight compact size.

The other notable aspect of the Ripple is that it's extremely compact, especially by the standards of other control panels. The Ripple can live on your desk alongside a keyboard and a mouse, and be stashed away neatly when it's not in use. Like other Tangent panels, the Ripple will be compatible with Resolve, SpeedGrade, SCRATCH, and any other software that uses the Tangent Hub. It will also feature compatibility with Tangent's Element lineup of panels, as well as their Element app, so you'll be able to expand the functionality when you outgrow the Ripple's limited feature-set.

The Tangent Ripple is expected to be available in early 2016.