Maike Magazine has announced a new book, Make Analog Synthesizers, written by Music From Outer Space‘s Ray Wilson.
The book covers:
- The differences between analog and digital synthesizers
- Analog synthesizer building blocks, including VCOs, VCFs, VCAs, and LFOs
- How to tool up for synth-DIY, including electronic instruments and suggestions for home-made equipment
- Foundational circuits for amplification, biasing, and signal mixing
- How to work with the MFOS Noise Toaster kit
- Setting up a synth-DIY electronic music studio on a budget
Make Analog Synthesizers is priced at $27.99 and will be released in April.
What experience level with electronicsdo you have to be at before you can complete one of the designs?
Knowing how to solder *might* help, but it’s possible that some of the projects can be completed on prototyping board (breadboard). Other than that, maybe pick up a GCSE/A-Level electronics/systems and control school textbook. It’ll go into a fair amount of depth, but you’ll learn the base parts to understand what you’re doing.
In my experience, MAKE: projects aren’t about just copying what’s in the book – they tend to make sure you actually understand what you’re doing. You’ll have a headstart if you begin with a basic knowledge of prototyping, soldering and the types of components used though.
(Don’t forget to have fun!)
I just recently built an effect pedal from “Build Your Own Clone” (http://buildyourownclone.com). Great way to get started with electronics. Clear instructions, affordable kits, and when you’re done you have an effect (for guitar or keyboard) that’s worth twice what you paid for the kit. It’s given me the confidence to move on to bigger projects like synths.
Also I recommend the Hakko FX-888 as a GREAT soldering station. It’s what I use. http://www.amazon.com/Hakko-FX888-FX-888-Soldering-Station/dp/B004M3U0VU
I think you’ll find there’ll be something for everyone. Modular units go from quite simple to more advanced. Should be an interesting book!
Make books are fantastic, like glossy magazines, check out the make web site, I have the make electronics and UNO books, I suspect this book will be very good, I will be buying it!
often for RadioShack projects you only need to know how to solder which is pretty easy to pick up.
Next up:
Make: Me A Sandwich
Go to musicfromouterspace.com website and see all Rays stuff. I have just received the WSG(wierd sound generator) PCB and will be making a start on it soon
I love the smell of solder!
I love the “magic smoke” that comes out of an overloaded transistor after the casing bursts – it reminds me of the electronics lab at school…
Make: My Day.