i want a ribbon controller that functions like the CS80 ribbon controller. that is to say, is their a ribbon controller that allows you to touch down anywhere along the surface to set a new “starting point” to then pull the pitch up or down? any suggestions on who might be able to build me such a device?
FYI - i already own a walking stick so no need to suggest. i like it a lot.
There is the DoepferR2M:
http://www.doepfer.de/home_e.htm
I have three of them and love them! Very versitile controller. Will you be using CV out? That will offer the best resolution as most MIDI devices lack enough resolution to perform smooth pitch bends across all five octaves.
Walking stick ribbon controllers are custom designed.
http://members.cox.net/ribboncontrollers/
EricK
Go for the Walking Stick.
Like Erick says…they are customizable…very affordable…and the service is top notch.
i repeat: i already own a walking stick. 
big thanks to sidewind for PM. doepfer is coming.
Just out of curiosity, if you already own a walking stick, why didn’t you get a second one?
The guy made me a whitewash one to match my Voyager!
Sorry…misread something here… 
I’m guessing because it won’t do what he specifically detailed in his original post.
I’ve got a walking stick too, and it is great, but it is a very simple design that won’t do what he described.
as soundxplorer mentioned, it doesn’t do exactly what I want it to do. i still love it and it will remain in use. i have no negative comments to make about the walking stick - i really like it.