Video: Theremin-esque digital synth sure to get Brian Wilson up in arms
By Laura June 
posted Apr 20th 2009 4:43PM
posted Apr 20th 2009 4:43PM
The theremin is just one of those instruments that nerds can't stop digging and modding. This newest iteration, the Squaremin, resembles the much-loved instrument in that you don't touch it to play it -- rather you move your hands about to control the octave and output of notes. The Squaremin was made using an ATmega168 chip, and boasts two infrared sensors to measure proximity -- one to control the note played, the other to control the octave which is played out of the front speaker of the instrument. Check out the video after the break.
[Via Make]
[Via Make]
but will it blend?
No, but it will make you look like a F*g!
I had no idea that it was a homosexual device, and helped kids come out of the closet.
it makes sound...but I didn't hear any music...
I heard music.
The sounds remind me of those little electronic handhelds that konami authorized in the early 90's. Particularly the TMNT one. Does anybody know what I am talking about?
FWIW, Brian Wilson didn't record that part on Good Vibrations, and it wasn't a theremin...it was a Tannerin...a slide theremin akin to the one Radiohead use.
yes, i know. but he is a huge fan of all theremin-related instruments!
Actually, he recorded it on a Theramin. He later had Tom Polk create a Tannerin to use on tour...
:)
Simply untrue. Paul Tanner, inventor of the Tannerin aka electro-theremin aka slide theremin, played them on the Beach Boys albums. The tracks were: "Good Vibrations", "Wild Honey", and "I Just Wasn't Made For These Times".
Who knew there were Beach Boys fans that read/contribute to Engadget? What a pleasant surprise.
it's already exist:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4GFLWNFR8WU
...if he got one...
...i am sure the other surviving beach boys would find some way to take it from him...
...heaven forbid he be happy...
How easy are Theremin's to make? I've alway's wanted one ever since I saw Bill Bailey use them in his act, but they cost about £350.
Wowzers! Thats awesome!
Plus, I heard the guy who built it is mighty attractive too.... just saying. I love you Nick.
Good god, that is some horrible noise.
If that was anywhere in my vacinity, I would take a sledgehammer to it.
same concept product:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bph9CxUk0xg
Duhhhh, Jean Michel Jarre' used this technique in the 1980s with full lasers. You be behind the times with this old news....
Sounds like electronic bagpipes, if a toddler or puppy got a hold of them.
Perhaps this is obvious, but theremins have a continuous warble. This has discrete notes instead, which makes the no-touch hand waving seem like a less useful way to play such an instrument.
Not too special.
Up in arms, good one!
sure, but can it play bohemian rhapsody