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."
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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).
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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.
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