A synthesizer, a choir of six oscillators joyfully singing along or against each other, producing an output spanning from harmony to cacophony, all by the touch of your skin.
'Hex' is the greek word for "six" and close to the Danish word "heks", which means "witch". It is about time we throw some witchcraft in our electronics and honour the wise women of the past and the present.
Electronic engineering is in many ways rather conservative, but fortunately there are cracks in the surface - like sticking your fingers inside a circuit or "starving" a circuit to intentionally prevent it from operating predictably. HEX is such a circuit - you play it by extending the circuit with your fingertips (or other conductive matter), and force it into chaos by cranking the "starve-control". Let the circuits starve and spare the abundance for the Humans in need.
Like human beings HEX is a mood swinger of sorts; it's mood changes rapidly from harmony to chaos - blindly obeying the orders of the starve control. If the electrodes are the limbs of HEX, the starve-control is the brain - or maybe rather a parasite of sorts, taking control of an otherwise well-behaving instrument. Luckily it seems that HEX is perfectly happy with returning back to a normal state again after a trip into chaotic territory; thereby reducing the starve-control to a humble way of controlling the timbre - it's not a filter, nor a wave-folder, but it surely does alter the timbre in a non-linear and most importantly pleasing manner.
Starving circuits is not a new thing; it has been exploited in fields of circuit bending for ages, and interestingly it is also a well-known trick among guitarists to emulate the sound of a fuzz pedal with a dying battery - by limiting the current flowing from the battery. However it is not something you see on the front panel on the average Behringer synthesizer (yet?!).
Please note that 'PCB only' means that you are buying a bare circuit board and have to source the components for yourself."
"Introducing the Oscitrode A synthesizer controlled by your skin and breath. You extend the circuit by letting the current flow through you and the circuit extends you by turning the physical contact into sounds yielding from simple oscillations to complex and chaotic patterns.
Six analog oscillators controlled by and interacted with through twelve electrodes. A "starve" control known from the world of circuit bending serves the mean of varying timbre and modulation in a nonlinear and chaotic way.
The electrodes are made of bare non-tinned copper and will probably change colour (and conductivity) over time adding a final time dependant layer of complexity to the circuit."
"Polyphonic drones, light-controlled warping, rhythmic looping - My newest one-off functional art piece, the 'Space Collider.' Built in a vintage snap-on battery testing shell that was modified and flipped upside down. This instrument features a four-channel drone feeding an old circuit bent delay. This resulted in the gnarliest drone machine to date when combined with a joystick-controlled delay to create oscillation squeals, glitch effects, and even looping.
I included a demo from Emily Hopkins. This is for a previous drone machine I made. This one uses the same circuit - going into a delay! So it is a bit more advanced than the one Emily used.
Short demo can be found on my IG page, addpedals. I am also open to trades for guitars if you are local."
"Play chess and compose music, at the same time! This Sonic Chessboard is a passive Optical Octophonic Audio Panner / light sensitive "chessboard", based on the design by Lowell Cross for John Cage's and Marcel Duchamps' musical chess performance Reunion (1968). It routes 16 audio signals via the 64 light dependent resistors to 8 separate audio outputs. Cover the squares on the board with chess pieces or your hands to make sounds roll through a room and add to the spatial distribution of all the different inputs. Best to be played with a strong bright light mounted on the ceiling above the chessboard.
The materials were originally made in small series for Wouter Jaspers' installative sound performance "Indeterminate Structures (2023). Big thanks to @Hainbach for playing chess with me and @Sonoscopia for the original sound installation and of course to the great folks of @patchpoint4043 for hosting us!"
Press release follows:
Berlin, Germany – Sonic Artefacts is excited to announce the release of the Sonic Chessboard, a unique DIY musical instrument that merges the worlds of chess and sound. Inspired by Lowell Cross’ design for John Cage’s Reunion (1968), the Sonic Chessboard offers a captivating way to create spatial sound experiences.
The Sonic Chessboard is a passive Optical Octophonic Audio Panner that routes 16 audio signals via 64 light-dependent resistors embedded in the squares to 8 separate audio outputs, changing the volume when a chess piece gets moved from one square to another. By strategically placing chess pieces on the board, users can control the volume and flow of sound, creating dynamic and immersive soundscapes.
"A gateway to sonic exploration, the Seofon Mini MCR is the experimental edition of our Seofon series, brought to life by the visionary hands of Xamynot, synthesizer designer at Mad Kids Empire. With its carefully crafted circuitry and minimalist design, this instrument invites you to create and discover sounds like never before.
Now available, the Seofon Mini MCR comes at an artist-friendly price, offering a rare opportunity to step into the Seofon universe. Let it guide you into uncharted territories of experimental music.
"Model-Q-2 is a small complex system built on 10 algorithmic equations capable of infinite variable polyrhythmic pulses, 8 phase modulation oscillators, a DSP algorithmic matrix including app and gesture control, a chebyshev polynomial waveshaper of the 2nd kind and 6 external complex modulation sources.
The ModelQ2 app is designed to control all parameters of the hardware but also facilitates gesture control. Allowing variables to be assigned to the base of the palm, the thumb, the index finger and the middle finger.
The tracking inbuilt to follow these targets is precise and can be the basis for interesting integration with ModelQ2 hardware.
Post output from the DSP matrix modelQ2 has stereo waveshapers that utilise chebyshev polynomials of the 2nd kind. 40 predefined polynomials each with 10 harmonics.
These polynomials can be smoothly interpolated and scanned with each other and provide a unique harmonic contribution to the phase modulation cores."
"Jan St.Werner of Mouse on Mars and Peter Blasser of Ciat-Lonbarde worked together on a very unusual synthesizer. Rather than creating lush textures, it is meant to excite and play acoustic spaces. Clicker compresses and expands a rich spectrum derived from 'Ringlers', a new take on Rob Hordijks 'Rungler'. Originally made for an exhibition it is now a standalone instrument. The whole concept intrigued me deeply, and as a fan of both their work I invited both of them to my studio for a chat. If found the resulting conversation so interesting I decided not to edit it down too much, only taking out the odd interruption. So strap in for an hour of deep synth, music and art nerdery."
"Abyssal Tongue. A cosmic sound and noise generator. A touch based synthesizer. Built in Echo/delay. Using a Tesla spirit crystal radio circuit amplified to create unique frequencies. Touch metal contacts to mix sounds to output. A switch on the side of the case that goes straight to output."
Equipped with an innovative drum sound source that allows breakbeats, which are generally composed of slices, to be constructed in the same way as regular drum sound sources. It also features a sequencer with 16 steps and 8 patterns, pattern chain playback, flam function, pattern mute, and other functions.
It consists of tones that are easy to use for HIPHOP, jungle, and acid. Additionally, the built-in stereo delay and overdrive allow for a wide range of expression.
"BREAK MINT is a mint tin-sized rhythm machine for breakbeats. It features an
innovative drum sound source that allows you to compose breakbeats, which are generally composed of slices, in the same way as a normal drum sound source, as well as a sequencer with 16 steps and 8 patterns, pattern chain playback, flam function, pattern mute, and other functions. It is composed of sounds that are easy to use for HIPHOP, jungle, and acid. In addition, the built-in stereo delay and overdrive allow for a wide range of expression.
BREAK MINT is a rhythm machine for break beats.
It is also equipped with an innovative drum sound source that can compose breakbeats, which are generally composed of slices, in the same way as a normal drum sound source, a sequencer with 16 steps and 8 patterns, pattern chain playback, a flam function, and a pattern mute. It consists of sounds that are easy to use for HIPHOP, jungle, and acid. In addition, by incorporating stereo delay and overdrive, a wide range of expressions is possible."
"Welcome to the Nyfida Sound Box, a versatile device inviting you, the listener, to challenge the enclosed composed material’s form and intended use in perpetuity
Operating as an Audio Player for the compositions by Spyros Polychronopoulos and Jannis Anastasakis
Algorithmic Variation Employ an algorithm to simulate composer decisions and musician executions, resulting in endless unique variations of the material
Soundscape Generation Transform your surroundings into ever-changing auditory experiences, creating inherently distinctive soundscapes
Jamming Tool Interact with the album or the algorithmic variation of it, altering its sound through various effects and loops
Synthesizer Functionality Create distinctive sounds by morphing audio material according to your aesthetic preferences
Switch between modes by adjusting the Rotary switch. Here’s how to use each mode: Position 0: The device is OFF
Position 1: Album Mode Toggle switch off: Listen to the album as the composers intended. Toggle switch on: Customize playback using Pots 1-4 for effects like Pitch Tremolo, Chorus, Distortion, and Reverb. Transform Nyfida into a synthesizer and compositional tool.
Position 2: Live Mode Toggle switch off: Experience live playback with endless unique executions of the four tracks. Toggle switch on: Interact with live execution using Pots 1-4 for effects like Pitch Tremolo, Chorus, Distortion, and Reverb.
Position 3: Deepen Mode Toggle switch off: Immerse yourself in unique soundscapes using the endless variations of album tracks as a source. Toggle switch on: Interact with the soundscapes using Pots 1-4 for effects like Detune, Speed, Distortion, and Reverb. Switch between tracks using the button (LED blinks once) and adjust volume with the dedicated Volume Pot.
Advanced feature: Looper Engage the looper in Rotary positions 1-3 with Toggle on by holding down the button for a loop size of up to 10 minutes. The looper supports multiple overdubs (adding new loops over existing ones). Double-tap to clear the looper (LED blinks twice) when the Toggle switch is on in any Rotary position. Return to Rotary position 0 (with Toggle on) to listen the loop on its own and adjust its characteristics using Pots 1-4, featuring effects like Pitch Tremolo, Chorus, Distortion, and Reverb. In this mode press the button once to play the loop in reverse. Switch Toggle off to silence Nyfida."
"The folks at Playtronica asked me to help them test the Biotron and be one of the first to show it off to the world. I really appreciate the honor. This is a small MIDI device designed to interact with plants. It's really cool!
Discover Biotron, the musical instrument that transforms plants into sound.
Play with your favorite plant and let nature compose your music. As the plant's natural electrical properties change, the sound evolves, creating a unique musical experience every time.
Ready to get started? Connect Biotron to a computer, tablet, or smartphone, and play with our online synth or your favorite music software/hardware. With no noticeable latency, Biotron responds just like any other MIDI controller.
- Play using plants as your instrument - Change the sound based on the plant's natural responses - Interact with nature to create music - No musical skill needed - Connect Biotron to your PC, phone, or tablet using the provided USB cable. - Attach the electrodes to your plant. Ensure they are securely connected to the stems or leaves for optimal conductivity. - Open Google Chrome and navigate to synth.playtronica.com, then choose any synth you like. Alternatively, use your preferred music software or hardware that accepts MIDI input. - Interact with your plant by moving your hands near it, touching its leaves, or adjusting environmental factors like light and moisture to influence the sound. - Experience the unique music generated by your plant's natural electrical activity translated into MIDI signals - Biotron MIDI-controller and packaging - USB-C cable is sold separately to reduce waste in case you have one already - Alligator clips and patches are also not included, make sure you add whichever you need
"🎶 Are you ready to dive into the depths of sound with the Dark Marie 1793 synthesizer? 🌌
Introducing a handmade, special edition modular synthesizer where every model is unique! Crafted with care, each piece features beautifully painted wood, burned for texture, and comes numbered and signed. Available in both silver and gold, this limited edition is exclusively found on the Error Instruments website—get ready to explore the darker, psychedelic side of music production!
✨ Key Features: 12 Patch Points: Experiment and create unique soundscapes. Seq/Four Baselines: Perfect for crafting rhythmic sequences. Drone/Deep Sounds: Ideal for ambient textures that transport you. Plum Tones: Inspired by Ciat Lonbarde for those one-of-a-kind tones. Chorus Layers: Add richness to your sonic creations. FM Modulation: Create dynamic effects with frequency modulation. Random Presets: Mix and match for unexpected sounds. 2x Master Selection: Choose your preferred sound sources effortlessly. Pulse LFO: Modulate and shape your sound in real-time. Envelope Control: Perfectly shape the length of your sounds. Voice Control: Enjoy polyphony for richer musicality. Waveform Selection: Customize your sound like never before. Error Delay Effects Processor: Elevate your creativity with unique effects. Wet/Dry Controls: Blend effects to achieve your desired sound.
Unleash your creativity and craft mesmerizing audio experiences! 🚀✨ "
"The Generator Organ is an off-grid crank powered self-amplified electronic organ. The organ derives all the power it needs to function in real time from a human powered hand crank embedded in the side of the instrument and needs no external sound system to play it. Volume and timbral characteristics can be performed intuitively using speed of cranking and the entirely analog circuitry allows for polyphonic/melodic performance using a top-octave division scheme."
During the recording I didn't change MESSEIVER settings, all changes are influence of those global natural parameters + choosing of interesting parts from the recordings."
"MESSEIVER is an irrational device for exploring the world of primal, wild radio reception – the way it was first experienced by the pioneers of radiocommunication.
MESSEIVER – is a shortwave receiver that is capable of receiving different stations from all around the Earth. Its peculiarity is that it doesn’t have the classic input tuning circuit, which lets you select a single station. Instead, it captures a big part of radio ether as it is. This way you can listen to many radio stations at once from around the globe. The set of stations that you can hear, their loudness and sound are defined by numbers of constantly changing global natural parameters. Weather, solar activity, cosmic particles, clouds and dozens of other phenomena define radio waves propagation, turning the world into a global DJ that makes a unique mix of radio stations here and now, exclusively for you. More details you can find in the manual and demo video."
ARPS is a synthesizer module that creates fantastic sounds from scale arpeggios.
The combination of four oscillators, a chaotic note generator, and an envelope creates infinitely beautiful phrases.
Controls:
CLOCK Set the frequency ofnotes.
ROOT Sets the base note of the scale output by the Note Generator.
SCALE Sets the scale scale output by the Note Generator.
RANGE Sets the width (upper limit) of the scale output by the Note Generator.
WAVETABLE More than 200 waveforms are recorded, and these can be smoothly changed.
ENVELOPE Set the envelope attack and release percentages.
If you turn it all the way to the left, it will change to an arpeggio sound, and if you turn it to the right, it will change to a reverse sound with a gentle attack.
If the frequency of CLOCK is high, it should be set to an appropriate value.
TRG Jack When a signal enters the TRG jack, the clock generator integrates its own signal with the input signal and outputs it.
Inventor and sound artist Rich Bernett, creator of the original Cassettone synthesizer, is excited to announce the development of the Cassettone Two—an upgraded, feature-packed evolution of the original cassette synth that gained a loyal following of DIY builders and experimental musicians around the globe.
The Cassettone Two is Bernett’s next step in redefining how cassette tapes can be manipulated into unique musical instruments. The original Cassettone, a keyboard that plays cassette loops, sparked excitement in the music-making and DIY communities, receiving widespread attention across YouTube, Instagram, and music blogs.
With its quirky design and DIY appeal, makers all over the world began building their own versions, and workshops and even social media communities sprung up around it. Now, with the introduction of the Cassettone Two, Bernett is ready to push the boundaries further.
A New Chapter for the Cassettone Synth
The Cassettone Two builds upon the foundation of the original with exciting new features designed to give musicians and builders more creative control. The most notable upgrade? Two cassette players, each with independent pitch control, that can be blended for a richer, more versatile sound. This marks a major leap forward from the original single cassette model, allowing users to create complex, layered tones.
“I wanted to address some of the challenges builders faced with the first version. With the Cassettone Two, there’s no need to hack into old cassette players anymore, which should eliminate the parts most prone to failure,” says Bernett.
Tailored for Makers and Musicians Alike
Bernett, who operates online under the name The Sound of Machines, has learned from the overwhelming interest in the first Cassettone and is implementing a rollout strategy that caters to both makers and musicians. For those who enjoy building, there will be DIY kits that include all necessary components (minus the tools). For musicians who prefer to skip the assembly, Rich plans to have a small-batch of pre-built units that will be available for purchase.
Additionally, Bernett plans to offer virtual and in-person workshops and detailed tutorials to guide makers through the building process, ensuring that anyone can successfully bring their own Cassettone Two to life.
More Features on the Horizon
While the base model of the Cassettone Two is set to feature two cassettes with pitch control, Bernett is already planning an XL model with reverse play, stereo outputs, and a brand-new “drone” mode, which he teases will be detailed in future announcements.
“Based on the popularity and community engagement with the first Cassettone, I’m aiming for a much more structured rollout this time. Whether you're a musician who wants a one-of-a-kind sound source or a maker who enjoys the build process, there will be an option for you,” says Bernett.
Limited Availability for Early Runs
Due to the anticipated demand, initial batches of the Cassettone Two will be limited. To ensure you don’t miss out, Rich Bernett encourages fans and makers to join The Sound of Machines Patreon, where he’s offering behind-the-scenes updates, production insights, and priority access to the first run of the Cassettone Two.
Subscribers will not only be the first to know when new units are available, but they'll also gain access to audio samples, exclusive tutorials, and detailed guides on building other experimental instruments from Bernett’s collection.
Join the Journey
Bernett’s journey with the Cassettone has been shaped by the creativity of the community around it, and he’s eager to see where musicians and makers will take the Cassettone Two.
To stay updated on production progress and get priority access to the first batch, join Bernett’s Patreon at Patreon.com/TheSoundofMachines and follow along on Instagram at instagram.com/thesoundofmachines.
About Rich Bernett
Rich Bernett is a sound artist and inventor best known for his boutique experimental musical instruments. Through his “The Sound of Machines” YouTube channel, Bernett shares his deep love of DIY instrument building and recording techniques, with videos that serve as tutorials for creating unique instruments from scratch. His Instagram presence, which continues to grow rapidly, has become a go-to repository for bizarre sound experiments, attracting the attention of both DIY enthusiasts and top-tier professionals in the music industry. With a dedicated community of builders and musicians behind him, Bernett continues to push the boundaries of sound design.
