Maker Music Festival: Photon Smasher v2

The photon smasher is a microphone for electromagnetic listening.

Just like how a dynamic microphone turns vibrations in the air into electricity, the photon smasher turns photons of light into electricity. In doing so, the rate at which the light source flashes determines the pitch you can hear. The solar cell is sensitive to the visual and infrared range of the electromagnetic spectrum, meaning you can turn bicycle lights into thumping drum beats and light up toys into futuristic synthesisers.

What inspired you to do this?

I began EMF listening with the Elektrosluch from LOM and wanted to explore more areas of the emf spectrum.

How long did it take to make it?

I've been experimenting with this microphone for 2 years now.

How long have you been doing things like this?

7 years

How much did this cost to do?

the parts to make the photon smasher are under £20

Have you done other things like this?

circuit bending and field recording are big parts of my artistic practice

What did you wish you knew before you started this?

How to use KiCAD!

Are there plans available to make this? Do you sell this?

It will be on sale on the www.clipsoundandmusic.uk website soon!

What’s next?

Building my own lights which make the sound I want when listened to with the photon smasher.

I use field recording, circuit bending and instrument building to create carnivalesque experiences which explore the act of play. Using lo-fi technologies I transform a space or object, encouraging the audience to become a curious performer and embrace play through interactivity, improvisation and collaboration. My work materialises as playful interactive sculptures, transportive soundscapes and empowering educational projects.

How I can help you:
The Photon Smasher will be on sale soon!

How you can help me:
Follow me on instagram or subscribe on YouTube.

If you like this project, please make a small donation to the artist.