[microsound-announce] Paper Bits – Make Your Own Analog Synthesizer, 10-11 Aug, Berlin

[wolfgang spahn]

===== Paper Bits – Make Your Own Analog Synthesizer =====

A summer workshop by Wolfgang Spahn
10. - 11. August 2018

Paper Bits is a small voltage controlled modular synthesizer system, 
created by Berlin based artist Wolfgang Spahn. Its simple design, 
accessible interface as well as low price offer a powerful sound tool 
dedicated to learning, experimenting and playing.

Analog synthesizers are known for their warm, rich, organic, and 
completely continuous sound, that arises from its analog waveform. 
Today, musicians, sound artists and DJ's are attracted by the 
opportunities that come with the sound-shaping functions of the analog 
synthesizer, such as sound producing circuitry and voltage control. 
While digital synthesizers are based on binary representations of 
various sound and instrument waveform that are stored in read only 
memory (ROM), the analog waveform allows for performatively generated 
sounds that exist only in the moment. Thus, it is possible to create 
finely nuanced tones, noises, and interference, or to generate imprecise 
and delayed sounds.

In contrast to the analog synths of the 60's, the modular analog 
synthesizers of today are less complex for standardized components, 
separable access and plug-and-socket connections (instead of patch 
cables) make for an easy set-up. Thus, using the instrument is just 
cool. Wolfgang Spahn's modular synthesizer system is based on Paper PCB 
and also comes with plug-and-socket connections. Therefore there is no 
need to fabricate circuit boards, because a simple color printer will 
do. It's rapid prototyping: each component can be created in an instant, 
and it's also possible to design them specifically.

Obviously, Paper-bits are very resourceful as they can be created and 
further developed without needing too many resources such as time, 
budget, space or weight. Newcomers may want to experiment with analog 
sounds, whereas professionals will appreciate how easily one can create 
new modules or develop special effects. However, Paper-bits are an 
amazing experimental platform for creating analog sounds that are 
digitally controlled by  an Arduino.

In the two day workshop we will build two modules as the core of our 
Paper Bits. We learn the basics about analog oscillators and how to 
control them digitally, and also patching and playing Paper Bits.

Beside a basic power and output board (PB321 Supply Unit) all 
participants can choose two out of these modules:
   * PB101 Sync VCO (two synced VCO)
   * PB109 VCO II (a sine wave VCO)
   * PB201 Step Sequencer (a 8 step sequencer)
   * PB401 Echo (delay and echo)
   * PB702 Midi Synth (a MIDI controlled polyphonic synthesizer)
   * PB701 Electric Intonarumori (a noise and FX module).

For other modules please ask beforehand.
All the tool and materials will be provided. The workshop will be held 
in English and German.


Workshop Fee: 80€
Material: 50€
Registration: post(at)wolfgang-spahn.de
12 seats are available
http://workshop.dernulleffekt.de/doku.php?id=paper_bits_aug2018:material

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10. - 11. August 2018  11am to 7pm
Studio W.Spahn
Gerichtstr. 12-13,  Aufgang 5
Berlin Wedding (S-Bahn Humboldhain)

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