Micro CV Controller
Angelo Fraietta’s Micro CV Controller isn’t a musical instrument in itself but, as with other types of controller devices, has become an inseperable part of many experimental musical instruments in recent years.
This type of controller might be better thought of as a converter of electrical signals (Control Voltage) to some form of data, most often this has been in the form of MIDI, but more recently Open Sound Control or OSC has been used. The Micro CV Controller employs OSC, and can be setup to convert signals in either direction – CV to OSC or OSC to CV. Which setup is used comes down to how the controller will function within a musical instrument system.
For the moment controllers are used predominantly in musical instruments which use some form of hardware sensor which generates raw data, such as pressure sensors, accelerometers, potentiometers, light sensors and so on. Usually these sensors are used in everything from robotics and manufacturing, to vending machines.
As an example, Jon Drummond uses one of Fraietta’s Micro Controller’s in his instrument Sounding the Winds. This instrument uses the movement of a flying kite to shape its sounds. In building the instrument, Drummond mounted an accelerometer onto the kite to record the X,Y movements and velocity of the kite flying about in the wind. The raw data from the accelerometer is then sent to the Micro Controller, which converts the accelerometer data into OSC information. The OSC information is then sent wirelessly (via Bluetooth) to a land-based laptop that Drummond operates during performances. Head over to the profile of Sounding the Winds for a more complete description of the instrument. [instrument profile coming soon].
The Micro Controller offers experimental instrument builders a robust and flexible device. As the example above shows, the controller is small, light, and portable enough to be used in just about every conceivable setup. The controller measures just 4.1cm x 5.3cm, and runs off a 9V battery. The added benefit of wireless connectivity further adds to the appeal of this little unit. Added to all this, by purchasing a Micro Controller you’re supporting Fraietta to continue his work in creating devices that are highly valued by experimental musical instrument builders in Australia and overseas.
A Mini Controller is also available, measuring 7.5cm x 7.5cm and using CV to MIDI, and providing a cheaper, entry level option for instrument builders experimenting with controllers for the first time – especially handy for builders who might be more familiar with using MIDI than OSC.
