Maker and 3D printing enthusiast James Bruton has created a new project in the form of a barcode scanner MIDI guitar. Using parts from old arcade machines, a little Arduino programming, and an Arduino MEGA with a USB host shield and a MIDI shield, this unique musical instrument uses barcodes to create sounds. Watch the demonstration video below to learn more and see the barcode scanner MIDI guitar in action.
Innovative Design and Features
“I built a guitar with barcodes instead of strings – but it has a few extra features including programmable buttons, pitch bend, and octave and channel shift, which are all controlled by retro game controller joysticks and buttons. It’s based on an Arduino MEGA with a USB host shield and a MIDI shield. In the demo I’m using an Arturia Beatstep Pro, a Novation Bass Station, Alesis DM5 drum synth, and a Korg X5D.”
The barcode scanner MIDI guitar is a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of modern makers. By repurposing old arcade machine parts, Bruton has managed to create a musical instrument that is not only functional but also visually striking. The use of barcodes as a means to generate sound is particularly innovative, as it allows for a wide range of musical possibilities. Each barcode can be programmed to produce different notes or sounds, giving the musician a vast palette to work with.
Technical Specifications and Components
The core of this project is the Arduino MEGA, a powerful microcontroller that provides the necessary processing power to handle the various inputs and outputs. The USB host shield and MIDI shield are crucial components that enable the Arduino to communicate with other MIDI devices, such as synthesizers and drum machines. This setup allows the barcode scanner MIDI guitar to interface seamlessly with a wide range of musical equipment.
In addition to the Arduino components, Bruton has incorporated several retro game controller joysticks and buttons into the design. These controls provide additional functionality, such as pitch bending and octave shifting, which are essential for creating dynamic and expressive performances. The programmable buttons can be customized to perform various functions, making the instrument highly versatile.
The demonstration video showcases the capabilities of the barcode scanner MIDI guitar, highlighting its unique sound and performance features. Bruton uses an Arturia Beatstep Pro, a Novation Bass Station, an Alesis DM5 drum synth, and a Korg X5D to demonstrate the instrument’s versatility. Each of these devices adds a different layer to the overall sound, creating a rich and complex musical experience.
This project is an excellent example of how modern technology can be used to create innovative and unique musical instruments. By combining elements from different fields, such as 3D printing, electronics, and music, Bruton has managed to push the boundaries of what is possible in the world of DIY musical instruments. The barcode scanner MIDI guitar is not only a functional instrument but also a piece of art that showcases the potential of creative thinking and technical skill.
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