When Audio Attacks!

While searching online for information on DIY synth building, as you do, I came across the diagram for a 'WSG' or 'Wierd Sound Generator'. (WSG Link) The project was advertised as beginner friendly, so I thought I'd give it a go...  It turns out that I am one step below beginner.  Novice, perhaps.  Sub novice minus. 

I took one look at the diagram (which could have been for a time machine for all I knew) and lost resolve.  Luckily, Rob Chase, father of the acclaimed author Lottie Chase, was around to help.  Rob, in his infinite wisdom, talked me through the diagram and circuit, and got started on the project.  He managed to build the whole thing from bits and bobs in his shed, and it looks and sounds amazing.  

Dan's Synth DIY tip #1:  If you can't do it, let somebody smarter than you do it.  Thanks Rob.

 

 

Sorry about the over-production.  I just acquired a new video editing package and went all Spielberg.  Still, there are thousands of sounds and hours of fun to be had with the WSG.  In fact, I'm off to sample it now.  

 

The Decibell Square Box: My First Homemade Synth

I won't lie to you.  I barely passed GCSE Physics, and thought Ohms law was a type of biscuit.  It might then come as a surprise to know that I have, today, built my first synthesizer... well, at least a noise making box.  

As I can't afford to buy a Mini Moog, I decided to make one.  However, with absolutely no clue where to start, I took the only logical step:  I searched 'How to build a synth' on Youtube.  Then I found the Cowboy.   

Link to the Cowboy's video

The Cowboy is wise, and his series of videos were all I needed to get started.  I purchased all of the items needed and a breadboard (plus a few random bits for good measure) from Maplins.  Within a few weeks, I began to deviate from the Cowboy's circuit and added components of my own - largely pretty LEDs to distract from the horrible sounds.  Thus, the Square Box was born.

After a month or so of tinkering with potentiometers and diodes (yes, I'm down with the lingo), I decided to box up my project.  As I am incredibly lazy, I opted for a small breadboard (Maplins, £0.99) as opposed to copper strip board. 

Armed with only a soldering iron and two AAA batteries, I got to work.  The result?  Well, I like it.    

Work has started on my next project.  Watch this space for more boring waffle.