This is a full kit which includes everything you need to build this standalone 8-bit synth.
- 8 bit synth kit (PCB and all components)
- Ready programmed Arduino Uno
- USB Cable
- Acrylic Enclosure kit
The miniAtmegatron is a DIY kit shield for the Arduino Uno. It turns the Uno into an 8-bit synthesizer with an audio engine based on the Atmegatron. If you’re a dab hand at soldering and want to dip your toes into the 8-bit ocean, this could be the synth for you! The package comes with instructions, PCB and all the electronic components. The Arduino Uno must be bought separately.
Features
Build
- 0.5 – 1 hour build time, depending on experience
- Soldering experience recommended
- YouTube tutorial to help building
- Once built the shield slots into the top of the Arduino Uno
- Powered by USB
- Audio via 3.5mm mono jack
Play
- 8-bit monophonic MIDI synthesizer
- Unique Wavetable PWM Synthesis audio engine
- Controlled via 2 RGB LEDs, 5 buttons and 6 pots
- Instantly playable using inbuilt sequences or play button
- A huge number of Atmegatron features in 1 tiny device
- Save sound to memory for future use
Hack
- Download the open source code from the downloads page
- Download the free Arduino development environment
- Upload the source code to the Arduino Uno and it’s ready to play!
- Tutorials and forums to help programmers
- MIDI hack your Arduino Uno and the miniAtmegatron becomes a MIDI instrument
Specification
| Synthesizer | ||
|---|---|---|
| 16 waveforms | LFO with 16 waveforms | MIDI clock sync (if Uno MIDI-hacked) |
| 15 digital filter algorithms | Filter and pitch envelope modulation | Sequence player with 15 sequences |
| 2 Envelopes with 16 preset shapes | Pitch and phase LFO modulation | 8 Wavecrusher or Portamento presets |
| 1 memory patch | Filter, amplitude and pulse width LFO modulation | Phaser and distortion fx |
| Inputs/Outputs | Extras |
|---|---|
| 3.5mm mono jack | Assembly and operation instructions |
| Power via Arduino USB | Pre-MIDI-hacked Arduino available |
Synthesis Engine
The miniAtmegatron synthesis engine is based on the Atmegatron engine, with some features cut back or removed because of the simpler interface. Like the Atmegatron, the mini uses the PWM output of the Atmega328P processor.
To find out more about the synthesis engine, see the Atmegatron page.