The PICsynth is an interesting new synth DIY project for a real analog synthesizer, using easy to get components and capable of a wide range of sounds.

Features

• Dual oscillator mono synth
• Really easy to build using just 1 custom programmed PIC chip, 4 ICs and single 12v supply
• All circuits built on veroboard – no printed circuit board making skills needed
• PIC based dual oscillator and digital keyboard scan
• Analog VCF/VCA/Envelope
• Waveforms : sawtooth, square (with pulse width adjust), triangle
• Tuning presets : in-sync, out-sync, detune1 and detune2
• Expandable, first two modules shown below.

Here’s a samlpe of the PICsynth sound:

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More demos are available at the PICsynth site.

The PICsynth looks like an easy project. If there’s a circuit board designer out there, though, that’s up for creating a board for this, it could develop into a super-easy starter synth project that still has room for hacking.

Cost Estimate in USD

• PIC chip $15 including postage and packing from NZ
• PIC board components $8
• Waveshape board components $24
• VCF/VCA/Env components $24
• Misc $18
• TOTAL $89
• + cost of keyboard (mine cost me $10)
• + cost of wood for case.
• Around $21 is the cost of the 7 potentiometers – if you can find a cheap source of these or use salvaged ones you will save a lot.

You an find the details here.

If you build a PICsynth, let me know what you think about it in the comments.

via the Forum