Building My First Synth

[Byron G. Jacquot]

>Hi, I just joined this group.  I'm a senior in high school, and as my
>senior project, I want to build a synthesizer.  This would be my first
>experience w/ electronics.  Could I actually build something in 2
>months w/o any previous experience?  Also, could some one give me some
>links to good websites that could help guide a beginner like me?

You might start at www.paia.com.  They offer a range of electronic music
kits, including the Fatman synth, which makes a a great introduction to
synth construction.  It's got 2 oscillators, a VCF, dual Envelopes, plus
MIDI control.  For a first project, it's great because it's complete: all of
the parts are there, with pretty good instructions, too.  As far as instant
gratification goes, it's right up there.  You will need to add a MIDI
controller, though, like a keyboard or computer.

As a general introduction to electronics, you might see of you can track
down Craig Anderton's book "Electronic Projects For Musicians."  It's got a
bunch of projects, as well as a good beginners introduction to some of the
various parts, soldering technique and general background thats reasonably
grounded in music.

As for an even more general introduction, there are many electronics
magazines out there, including Nuts & Volts, Electronics Now and ETI.  

Good luck!

Byron Jacquot