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RE: Axe*Synth Synthesizer/Theremin Guitar



Has anybody seen or used this thing?

DM

-----Original Message-----
From: Don Makoviney [mailto:dmakoviney@innfinityinc.com] 
Sent: Tuesday, November 16, 2004 8:40 AM
To: Loopers-Delight@loopers-delight.com
Subject: Axe*Synth Synthesizer/Theremin Guitar

ElectroKraft Announces Axe*Synth Synthesizer/Theremin Guitar

Full Press Release:
http://gearasaurus.com/content/?a=23&z=3


Classical guitar builder, pickup maker and custom effects pedal builder 
Tony
Amendolare has been immersed in the pursuit of creating electronic musical
instruments that spark the imagination and create worlds of new sound. 

"I was intrigued by other synthesizers that were constructed like guitars,
such as those made by Casio in the 80's. I wanted to make something that
sounded very "fat" and full, and could be controlled like a guitar with a
fretboard. I also wanted to create an instrument that exhibited the look 
and
aesthetics of something "Sci-Fi", like what you would see in one of those
post apocalyptic science fiction films like "Blade Runner". " 

Another important element was to incorporate "expressive control" elements
like the theremin photocell which controls some of the frequency settings,
and the responsive touch sensitive fretboard which you can play like a
guitar. These things make the Axe*Synth much more than a synthesizer most
people are used to. 

Inside there are two oscillators which can be played separately and/or
simultaneously for 2 voice polyphony. The oscillators can also be combined
via the internal ring modulator with the flick of a switch. There is a
frequency filter that can be used to further shape and enhance tone. A
Theremin? Yes. There is a photocell contained inside a lens on top of the
body that will react to light and shadow. Waving your "picking hand" over 
it
will create changes in frequencies while your fretting hand plays notes on
the fretboard. Further frequency adjustments can be made "on the fly" by
turning the frequency adjustment knob while playing notes with your other
hand. 

The photocell theremin effect can be turned off leaving you with just the
notes being played on the fretboard. Conversely the fretboard can be turned
off allowing only the photocell control and transforming the Axe*Synth into
a "light theremin". 

There is no "tracking" or MIDI involved here. Everything that is produced
comes directly from inside the Axe*Synth. Standard 1/4" in/out jacks, 9 
Volt
universal adapter power jack and power indicator LED. It's a combination of
digital and analog circuitry encased in all aluminum alloy construction. 

You can see the Axe*Synth in action with video demonstrations on the
company's web site.

Price: $549.00. Available direct from ElectroKraft

Full Article:
http://gearasaurus.com/content/?a=23&z=3


For more information, visit their web site at www.electrokraft.com.

Full Article:
http://gearasaurus.com/content/?a=23&z=3