[sdiy] Theremins

[Terry Ahrens]

I want to add that I also have a Paia Theremax that I built, and the CV
outs have provided (for me) the solution to the quest for that "classic"
sound. I use the pitch CV to provide tracking for a filter, and send the
output of the Theremin through the filter prior to the amp. Of course, I
could also use the CV to control an oscillator or two, but I have not
found that to be necessary. Since I own many different types of modular
filters, I can get a huge amount of variation in the sound of theremin,
and I almost always add a touch of reverb or delay as well.
I did a lot of research before deciding on the Theremax, and I have been
very satisfied with my choice.
~Terry (who also has no talent for actually playing music on the theremin)



"J. Larry Hendry" <jlarryh at iquest.net> on Tuesday, May 24, 2005 at 1:03 PM
 wrote:


>I can echo what Bruce says and perhaps add some more perspective since I
>have owned, built, and played both of these.
>
>First, I am not actually saying I can play either.  That would imply
>talent.
>Apparently, I do not have enough of the right kind for that.  But, here
>are
>some other comparisons for consideration:
>
>The PAiA is a true kit.  You build it all.  The Etherwave has a
>prepopulated
>PCB and you assemble the rest. With the PAiA, you even build the cabinet
>(their kit or your own) The Etherwave is an assembled cabinet you simply
>get
>to apply finish to.
>
>In terms of sound quality and playability, the Etherwave is the hands down
>winner.  It should be, it cost significantly more.
>
>One oddity I found with the PAiA is that you can tune the volume antenna
>to
>respond in a traditional manner, or backwards, which might be more
>intuitive
>for some (press down = more volume)  Probably appeals to guitar players
>and
>drummers <snicker>.  In fact, I found the backwards mode actually worked
>better on my PAiA.
>
>The PAiA is CV ready and the Etherwave is not.  In fact, I believe if you
>plan to use it for mostly CV, PAiA has some tweaks that improve CV
>performance.
>
>The PAiA has one feature the Etherwave does not and that is the reason
>that
>someone wanted to buy mine (and they were successful).  The Etherwave
>antenna is very nice, chrome and rigid.  But, the PAiA antenna is a bent
>piece of wire (about # 6 solid CU I think).  It is somewhat flexible and
>can
>provide the theremin "thwang" effect.  This is that happens when you pull
>the top of the antenna back as far as you dare bend it over, and let go.
>You then place your hand in the vicinity of the antenna as it oscillates
>back and forth (but not close enough to touch).  You can imagine the pitch
>response.  This technique was introduced to me by The Lothars.
>
>So, in summary, if I were going to pick from one of these, I would pick
>the
>PAiA for general CV production on a budget price.  I would pick the
>Etherwave if I actually wanted to learn to play and use the audio.  Both
>are
>fun.  Both are frustrating.
>
>I have seen Dana Bissell (better half of Harry) play the quantized
>theremin
>once a year for about 6 years.  Harry should be banished from any future
>theremin discussion and put on trial for Theremin treason. ;-)
>
>
>-----Original Message-----
>From: bruce tovsky
>i'd have to say that the big briar etherwave kit is better
>than the paia - with the caveat that i haven't played a
>paia in quite a while and i own an etherwave.
>bruce
>
>
>