An Instrument for the Sonification of Everday Things is an electronic device with a retractable spindle that will accept most any readily available item. A scanning laser then reads the distance of the object as it rotates and translates that data into musical notes.
Created by Dennis P Paul, this instrument creates loops that are remarkably reminiscent of Dubstep. The user can slide the laser back and forth, picking up different parts of the object, and a stepper motor that rotates the spindle can be synched to an existing drumbeat. The data from the laser is sent to Processing before being exported melodically.
[via The Creators Project]
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In addition to being an online editor for MAKE Magazine, Michael Colombo works in fabrication, electronics, sound design, music production and performance (Yes. All that.) In the past he has also been a childrens' educator and entertainer, and holds a Masters degree from NYU's Interactive Telecommunications Program.
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