The Product design studio based in Berlin has created a very unique sound system using optical sensors rather than the traditional needle. The optical turntables were created for the premiere of Volkswagen’s new Beetle at the 2011 IAA motor show.
Rather than using vinyl disks like a traditional record player, the new optical turntables use discs with concentric geometric patterns printed on them and then placed below a glass surface to produce music. This innovative approach not only modernizes the classic turntable but also opens up new possibilities for sound manipulation and visual aesthetics. Watch the video after the jump to see it in action.
How Optical Turntables Work
The three turntables have been designed to translate concentric visual patterns into control signals for further processing in any music software. This is achieved through the use of optical sensors that read the geometric patterns on the discs. The rotation of the discs, each holding three tracks, can be synced to a sequencer, allowing for precise control over the music being produced. This method provides a unique way to interact with music, blending visual art with auditory experiences.
The Product explains:
“The Soundmachines premiered on the Volkswagen New Beetle stand at the IAA motor show in late Summer 2011. In cooperation with the sound designer/producer Yannick Labbé of TRICKSKI fame, we developed three unique discs, each controlling one track of an Ableton Live Set exclusively made for the Event. The show was supported by a set of realtime generated visuals, running on a 25m wide LED wall.”
Innovative Applications and Future Potential
The use of optical turntables represents a significant leap in the evolution of music technology. By integrating visual elements directly into the music production process, artists can explore new creative avenues. For instance, the geometric patterns on the discs can be customized to produce different sounds, offering endless possibilities for experimentation. This could lead to new genres of music and innovative live performances where visuals and sound are seamlessly integrated.
Moreover, the ability to sync the rotation of the discs with a sequencer means that these turntables can be used in professional music production environments. DJs and producers can incorporate them into their setups to add a unique visual component to their performances. The real-time generated visuals displayed on a 25m wide LED wall during the Volkswagen event exemplify the potential for large-scale applications, such as concerts and festivals.
The optical turntables also have educational potential. They can be used as teaching tools to help students understand the relationship between visual patterns and sound. By manipulating the patterns on the discs, students can see and hear the immediate effects of their changes, making abstract concepts more tangible.
Source: DVICE : The Product
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