In this workshop you'll design and build your own subtractive synthesizer. We'll learn about subtractive synthesis signal flow and solder a few potentiometers on a custom PCB board called Simple. The board allows you to design your own instrument interface, and since we're using the Daisy Seed microcontroller (included), you can tweak and modify your design as you see fit.
The code we use is open source, so you can easily change it and even learn programming along the way. There is also a video course that's included with every kit, so you could develop your ideas and understanding of synthesis and programming at home after the workshop.
The Simple kit has 80 footprints for knobs, switches and sockets. You can design and build your own unique layout within a couple of hours. And, we're using the Daisy Seed microcontroller, which allows lots of sound design flexibility. It's so immediate, you'll have a sounding instrument in the first workshop day!
This is not just a soldering workshop. Yes, you will do some soldering, but you'll quickly learn that the fun and creative possibilities lay in the design process. We'll take you through the process based on your individual skill level. Have a look at the detailed program below to learn more.
We will start off with designing the synthesizer and its functionality. Bouncing between the physical interface and the computer. Drawing diagrams and laying the controls out to find a good balance between functionality, playability and performance. We'll also work with VCVRack (free) to emulate the synth sound and evaluate the controls.
Learning goals
Activities
Time
11:00 - 12:00
Now that we have the interface figured out we can start programming it. We will go through the code (provided) to understand what each line is doing. We'll experiment with mapping parameters, changing knob ranges and modifying our instrument functionality.
Learning goals
Activities
Time
12:00 - 15:00
This workshop is just the beginning! The kit comes with enough components for you to develop your ideas further. You can use the video course (link will follow) to get a good understanding of how the code works, and experiment in your own pace. Also, join our Discord server to meet other makers and get help with coding, electronics, sound design and interface design.
We will be using the synth DIY kits below during the workshop. These are not mandatory, but they make your life easier. They also allow you to build more instruments and follow other workshops in the future.
Mac or Windows ideally. You can follow this 4 minute tutorial to install Arduino and the additional libraries and drivers required. Also install VCV Rack. It's free, and awesome! We'll use it to learn synthesis fundamentals, but it is an amazing instrument in its own right.
We'll need a micro USB cable to connect our synth to the computer and program it. Make sure your cable can transfer data (some cables can only charge).
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