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Commodore 64 home computer (1983) we use two C64s live that run synthesizer software off a custom cartridge I programmed. That piano keyboard overlay that you see is an original C64 accessory. Commodore's SID sound chip is similar to an analog synthesizer and even includes a real analog filter, and it sounds awesome. My synth program has several sound settings and includes an LFO, portamento, and filter control using paddle controllers." -more- |
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Atari 2600 video game console (1977) the Atari 2600 generates a lot of the drum and bleepy sounds, and it is responsible for generating all the video that we project at our live shows. Most of the songs use my 2600 sequence player software which is manually sychronized to the printer and 286. Since the Atari sequencer is already in sync, it is easy to generate video that is coordinated with the music. All the Atari software runs off a custom programmed cartridge board. We also usually do a song at our shows where we play the Atari like an instrument, using the keyboard controllers (you can actually buy a copy of the synth program here). -more- and -more- |
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Compaq Portable II 80286 personal computer (1986) this is a DOS 286 machine, and sound is generated using the Yamaha OPL/3 FM chip included on the Soundblaster 16 cards. We use a freeware DOS based sequencer program called Sequencer Plus Gold. The OPL/3 is good for drums, some bass, and noisy guitar-like stuff. And with a Boss Heavy Metal Pedal it totally rules. |
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Epson LQ500 dot matrix printer (1985) the printer has been converted into a music machine by reprogramming its internal firmware EPROM with my own software and music data. Sound is generated by the print head pins striking the paper and the sound is picked up by a tie-clip mic on the print head. By adjusting the frequency of the printing process in software, different pitches can be played (with about a two octave range.) I manually synchronize the printer to the Atari and 286. When the original EPROM is replaced this printer is still fully functional. -more- |
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