[sdiy] frequency counter

[Magnus Danielson]

Ingo Debus wrote:
> 
> Am 25.10.2009 um 01:35 schrieb Magnus Danielson:
> 
>> A 8253/8254 counter chip can make minor wonders for you along with 
>> some processing. Found in several synths and at least one high end 
>> counter.
> 
> Argh, why use such an ugly and outdated chip these days? It needs a 
> microprocessor anyway, and virtually any of today's microcontrollers has 
> a timer on board that does a far better job.

Depends on what other environment he has, but several chips can pull it 
off on their internal counters. The job needed to be done is the same.

> Or save yourself the trouble and get a chromatic tuner. I wonder why so 
> many synth DIYers want a frequency counter. Isn't a chromatic tuner 
> better suited for this job (and cheaper)?

Depends on what he wants to do.

> Is this just because Keith 
> Emerson had a frequency counter in his rig? :-)

No. It's stomp-box-oriented. :)

Cheers,
Magnus