I'm curious, how do you plan to use such a device in a linux audio
environment? What will you map the buttons and faders to?
There's quite a range of options for working with a controller of that type. None of the solutions are perfect, and all require some adapting of the workflow to the tools. Eg: SooperLooper & JackRack can do quite some damage, as can a combo of Seq24 (with clip launch buttons) and some softsynths running Ardour busses for automateable effects.. Also I'm working on coding a live looping tool myself for a while now... :)
Although I quite like the midiFighter, its price is astronomical for 16 buttons. Ya could build it using an Arduino and some parts for 1/2 the price.