Camel
A mono self-oscillating synthesizer built from a novelty metal box. It has no keys, but is played with switches and knobs.
Keyless synthesizer made from a cigarette tin Created from a stash box of a former methamphetamine addict, this synthesizer transforms years of abuse into a squelching stream of lo-fi noise that can be played and performed as a standalone device or into an external audio mixer. Made using an Arduino and the Mozzi software library.
After building this and recording some videos of performances, I decided to integrate the sounds into my music workflow. It generates low fidelity distorted pulses and sweeps that work well with drum sequences. I ended up releasing a cassette tape with the results. https://lucidbeaming.bandcamp.com/track/camel
Frequently Asked Questions
What inspired you to do this?
It started with the box, which was formerly a stash box for a meth addict. I wanted to build something that changed that transformed that narrative.
How long did it take to make it?
About a month. I built the internal synth using Mozzi on an Arduino. The fabrication took a while because I had ground and interference issues with the metal box.
How long have you been doing things like this?
4 years doing the recent tech/music fabrication. Many decades as an artist.
How much did this cost to do?
$30
Have you done other things like this?
I have built many instruments, but this one stands out for being battery powered and having a built-in speaker.
What did you wish you knew before you started this?
Audio signals for a standard mixer input need a voltage divider if connected directly from the Arduino.
Are there plans available to make this? Do you sell this?
The Arduino sketch that drives it is up on Github. https://github.com/lucidbeaming/Camel
What’s next?
I will be performing with it.
Resoures?
The Mozzi library for generating sound with an Arduino was indespensable. https://sensorium.github.io/Mozzi/
Lucidbeaming : Artist
The maker Lucidbeaming
Art and technology projects by Joshua Curry. Glitch aesthetics, repurposed obsolete hardware, programming, humanism, empowerment.
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How I can help you:
The source code and plans are open source and available on Github.
If you like this project, please make a small donation to the artist.