Hey, have you ever heard of a Modulin?
It is a modular synthesizer that is played like a violin via ribbon controller. Created by Martin Molin from the band Wintergatan #genius. As soon as I ever heard and saw the Modulin I wanted to make one but had no idea how to go about it. Until…
Inspiration
Martin released this video How does THE MODULIN work? – DIY Music Instrument and I got an idea, what about a raspberry pi?
Modular Synthesizer
So I started googling (raspberry pi modular synthesizer) and was introduced to the Moonbox project and Sunvox.
So now all I need is a ribbon controller, a frame and a modulation/pitch wheel.
Ribbon controller
Finding a ready to go ribbon controller with the features I am looking for on a budget is a real trick. After much searching, I found the one string project with was kickstarted and can be purchased in DIY kit form or a ready to go at straytechnologies for around $100.
Now for the brain
I went to my favorite computer store and got a raspberry pi 3 b, a micro sd card, power adapter and a 7in touch screen. I needed a case for it. As I was looking into cases to 3d print on thingiverse I saw a post on Instagram from Adafruit for their 7in Portable Raspberry Pi Multi-Touch Tablet. Perfect, exactly what I needed. I also need a new circuit board so I went online and ordered one from a printed circuit board shipping company.
Pitch wheel/Modulation
For the modulation and pitch wheel, I have been looking into parts and possibly a cheap keyboard with the features I need to hack into what I need. looking I’m thinking my best option for this would be to midiplus AKM320 midiplus MIDI Keyboard Controller. I will get one when I can and take it apart if I can’t find a cheaper alternative. I’m also looking at sites like 0rgb.com for other parts that I’ll need.
