![]() ![]() More fun than actually playing notes can be had in the form of the Micro Sequencer module, which has four variable steps. The keyboard is a very compact one octave micro-switch device that can also output a trigger pulse besides the varying voltages related to pitch. The final parts are the Keyboard and Micro Sequencer Bits. Mix and Split modules allow you to explore more complicated configurations, though including two of each of these in the kit would have been more helpful. Sadly, there is no audio input included in the kit, so you will need to buy the microphone Bit if you want to explore the possibilities of processing external audio. Of course if you want to hear any of your sonic noodling you'll need to plug in the Synth Speaker module, that also features a small loudspeaker and headphone jack. The final processor/generator block here is Delay, with Time and Feedback controls, though no wet/dry mix. So, like the two Oscillators, it can be both a sound source and modulator. The small Random module functions as either a white noise or random voltage generator. Dialling-up a low pitch setting on the first Oscillator delivers pitch sweeps and vibrato effects, but moving its frequency upwards nudges things into atonal cross-modulation territory - nasty, but nice. This can be tested by connecting only two Oscillators in series, whereupon the first in the chain modulates the pitch of the second. ![]() In fact, on closer inspection it is apparent that the Oscillator modules can also be used for modulation duties in a similar manner to a conventional LFO. However, after some playing about we realised it can also be used as a more general modulation source.įor example, it is possible to use it to control the cutoff frequency of the Filter module, in much the same way as most other synths. The Envelope Bit is a two-stage modulator with Attack and Decay controls that on first inspection appears to be solely for use as a Voltage Controlled Amplifier (VCA). Again, this is a simple affair, with Cutoff and Peak (resonance) knobs, though there is an additional Frequency In connector, which allows the cutoff to be controlled by another Bit module. Next, we have the Filter, which is apparently based around the Korg's famous MS-20 filter. This consists of many of the sound generation and processing building- blocks associated with a basic subtractive synth bundled into a tiered cardboard box with a 35-page booklet. Into this colourful 'electronic Lego' universe step Korg, who have teamed-up with littleBits to create the 12-piece Synth Kit. The existing modules are generally based around simple circuits of only a few onboard components, or just one in the case of something like a toggle switch. Connections between modules are made automatically when they are placed next to each other (with magnets ensuring they don't move apart too easily). "Connections between modules are made automatically when they are placed next to each other"Īll littleBits' modules fall into one of three colour-coded categories - power (blue), input (pink), wire (orange) and output (green). ![]() littleBits on the other hand is only a few years old, though in that time has garnered a host of awards for its range of small interconnecting circuit board modules. This spawned what has become an onslaught of tech-nerds' sonic delights (most recently the Volcas - a combination of analogue sound generation and digital control). ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |