[Manhattan Research Inc.]

[M.Ruberto]

hi,
> 
> The "Circle Machine" was a photoresistor on a motorized arm that scanned a
> circle of lamps. The individual intensity of each lamp could be adjusted,
> making a sequencer. The photoresistor controlled a tube oscillator.
> 
> The "Electronium" seems similar to the Sal-mar construction (in concept) in
> that it was synth modules controlled by random generators. He developed a
> miniature synthesizer module that could be resistor programmed and built
> banks of them to make multi-timbral "orchestras" under PSRG control.
> 
this is fascinating! i have always been a electromechanics nut. when i worked
as an embedded controller technician, i found it fun to go home and duplicate
some process i set up on a micro using relays and mechanical sequencers. i
have some cool stuff in storage yet. timers, cam driven sequential controllers
whos cycle time is controlled by a resistor heating a bi-metal contact arm. i
have solenoid sequential switchers with 9X11 and 12X23 contact matrices. i
have often though about putting this crap to use in synth stuff for some
really bizarre Frankensteinian modules. i once found an old (1930s?) tube
mixer in really bad shape inside an abandonded lab. i had planned on repairing
it but wound up giving it away to make space. the more i think about this, the
more fun it seems. electromechanical modular synthesis, who knows, could be
the next big retro thang :)

-<mike>-
 

New York's all right if you like saxophones.


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