nathan@woosteraudio.com | Photos on Flickr | About
Andromeda Space Rockers is a really cool series of low-cost beat-synced drum machines and synthesizers. They use a simple wireless infrared protocol to maintain sync between each other, but how do you sync them to Ableton, or an MPC, or ...
MIDI-IR!
What is it?
MIDI-IR takes an incoming MIDI clock and converts it to an IR clock. There are two outputs; one on each side, which can be set to different tempos. MIDI-IR has switches and a BURST button to subdivide the tempo of the clock signal, as well as MIDI-thru.
All controls are mounted to a credit-card sized PCB, which rests on a single 9V battery. Chassis/cases are optional and left to the end-user.
Tell me more about how it works?
You can have a look at the manual in html.
For a pdf file of the different burst rhythms, click here.
For the schematic, click here.
Demo:
What is it compatible with?
It can wirelessly sync to the following devices:
- Space Baby from Wooster Audio
- MK1, MK2, MK3, and MK4 Drum Machines from Eric Archer
- Autonomous Baseline Generator from 4ms Pedals
- Nebulophone Synth from Bleep Labs
- Bend Sequencer from Mickey Delp
Check out this video where Eric and Dann used four MIDI-IR modules chained together using MIDI-thru, to sync four different space rock stations in a unique installation.
How much does it cost?
$40 for a kit with all components (includes schematic and instructions.
$55 for a completed module, assembled and tested in Austin.
Shipping will be approximately $3-$6 depending on country.
For larger orders please contact me before you order for possible shipping discounts and to check stock
If you are in Austin, you can buy from me in person, too. Just send me an email.
Can I mod it?
Sure! MIDI-IR uses a PIC 16F88 microcontroller which can be easily reprogrammed with a $35 PicKit programmer from Microchip. I stuck some extra headers on the board for bringing out signals. There is also space for an external ceramic resonator if you want to run MIDI-IR at faster speed.
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