One thing I've been thinking about is if I could use a Raspberry Pi as a controller for an analog poly synth microcomputer system. The Sequential Prophet-5 used this same concept to create a computer system that would control the keyboard, Individual Oscillators, Filter CVs, Common CVs, Individual Voice Gates, and Switch Signals. If we look closer, no sound is created digitally as each oscillator is voltage controlled, not digitally controlled. The computer makes it easier for polyphony to be achieved because it controls, as said before, the Filters and CVs. It also creates the ability to program the Prophet making it perfect for switching sounds during a performance or recording session easily.
Now we fast forward to the digital age where everything sound is created almost always digitally. Even in today's world, we can't let go of the historic sounds that were made in the era of poly synths. So, as said before, I'm going to explore the possibilities that the Raspberry Pi and other modules have for creating a much more reliable control system for a DIY polyphonic analog synthesizer...
One thing that sets the Raspberry Pi apart from the other modules I looked at that could perform the same task is that it has multiple I/O pins, the fact that it has so much software, and a long list compatible parts that are helpful. Another module that could be helpful for making a poly synth control board would probably be an Arduino. The problem I have with an Arduino is the lack of things like a micro SD card slot for holding the code required for controlling the keyboard and other components. I could probably work around this as the Prophet-5 was designed in a much more primitive time in computer power. The best thing about the Arduino is that it has many different types of I/O controllers and other devices that could be added on to the board itself. For this project, the controller choice is clear to me: the Arduino Uno board. This board would make the simulation of the Prophet's original circuitry easier as it is limited in both power and Random Access Memory. And because of the potential this board has for musical projects such as this, it is perfect for making this concept from the 80s a reality again.
I'm going to do some research on how I going to pull something like this off. In other words, I'm just explaining the concept of digital/analog hybrid poly synths in today's post.
As I stated before, none of the sound is generated from the computer. The only thing that is generated by the computer are the CVs, voicing assignments, and other things that would simply not be possible without the microcomputer system. That's why the Prophet is loved by so many musicians, the sound is all analog.
I'll keep you guys updated on this project and I'll do some more research on how I can make this DIY poly synth a reality.
As always, thanks for reading!
Your friendly neigborhood blogger,
AJ