DIY projects

Gameboy Genius nitro2k01 has a vision for the future of modular synthesis, and it’s the ModularDuino – An Arduino based modular synthesizer.

If that sounds like a lot of supernatural mumbo-jumbo, the Arduino is an open-source electronics prototyping platform based on flexible, easy-to-use hardware and software.

People are using the Arduino to do all sorts of freaky DIY stuff, so it’s only meet and right that synth DIY’ers should bend this to their will, too. The above audio sample, Funky Arduino Acid, documents the unholy marriage between the Arduinoscillator and the Serge modular synthesizer. 

nitro2k01 hopes to develop the Arduino as a low-cost component for modular synthesizer users. Arduino hackers should check out the Gameboy Genius site for more info. Read more…

This video demos the DIY Appendage Touch Ribbon and Buchla 291 BPF Adaptation of Scott Stites with an analog FM patch. The Appendage is controlling the modulator and carrier VCO through my Buchla 291 Filter Adaptation.

Anyone familiar with Vangelis’ Beaubourg?

This sounds surprisingly similar to the effects Vangelis explored on Beaubourg – an album that is sort of a litmus test of his fans.

Electric Western has announced plans for some new DIY synth kits. 

There’s a lot on the list to get psyched up about:

First on the list is the EW Ribbon Controller:

20? long  & designed as an ergonomic instrument meant to be played! The current version sends 2 position CVs and has an optional expression pedal input/output (uses a roland or other keyboard expression pedal). It’s solid state & uses a permeable electric membrane touch surface. It’s not quite like John Simonton’s proposed ribbon at Paia, but it is driven actively and does provide two independent CVs allowing two hand (finger) playing & it will be compatible with pretty much any synth out there.

Phantastron Production Model: A phantastron designed to be economical as a completed instrument or module (not just a kit).

The 1936 Warmifier (v2):

Essentially a very tonal pre-amp / di with 1930s style vacuum tube input and output & a formant resonator section. Unlike a filter, the formants are RESONANT & can be additive or subtractive. This is accomplished with high quality inductors and shunts (not grounded resistors or potentiometers), much like the resonant networks used to add overall harmonic depth in the Trautonium or the Hammond Novachord.

I’m still searching out the right tranformer (1000-3000 ohms:600 ohms). Until I perfect my winding jig, I just can’t wind all the transformers myself. Oh and if anyone knows a good source of bakelite that might be nice too.

I’m also still working on theremins and martenot circuits. I think a FAITHFUL martenot inspired instrument is inevitable, but it’s taking some time. Currently, I do have a “gong speaker” and I’ve carved some wood for a “palm speaker”. I have also gotten the heterodyne oscillator and ring/string controller licked, but there are modifications that need to be done. Just because it works doesn’t mean it plays…

Here’ something to be thankful for – laser harps!

Nortec Collective is building a laser harp, from a design made by Stephen Hobley:

Luis Vargas our technician guru is in charge of making this instrument work, the plan is to use it on our live presentations for controlling our synthesizer, Here is a preview, coming soon in our Bostich+Fussible 2009 tour. 

The Stribe is a DIY touch-strip interface with dual LED bargraph columns.

The video shows it being used with an Arduino, Max/MSP and Reason.

The kit sells for $79.99.