Synth Kickstarter Round-Up 2023

Synth Kickstarter Round-Up 2023

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The past few years have been tricky for the electronics market, including synthesizers, as global supply chain issues and component shortages were common. However, despite all the issues, there have been a few synth-based Kickstarter projects that were launched. Here’s a quick round-up of the most notable ones.

Groovetube

Link: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/groovetube/groovetube-a-prototype-plasmaphone/description

Groovetube is a prototype plasma synth that allows users to make crazy sounds with fluorescent tubes that they can control with a magnet. The idea for this instrument came about after the creator played around with a fluorescent tube and a magnet and discovered that making sounds with it is a tactile, surprising, and absorbing experience. 

The Kickstarter warns users that Groovetube is not a conventional synth that can be connected with a CV cable to get a conventional response. In addition to plasma being unpredictable and challenging to control precisely, there are far easier and better ways to produce pure tones accurately. This means that Groovetube is really for people who want something different and unique. 

The Groovetube Kickstarter launched in February of 2023 with a funding goal of £4,500, eventually ending at £8,775 thanks to 16 backers. Backers could pledge £699 or more for the Groovetube kit version, which includes all components and enclosures, or fully assembled models starting at £899. The estimated delivery dates are December 2023; according to recent updates, everything still appears to be on track.

CHOMPI

Link: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/chompiclub/chompi-a-magical-tape-music-instrument

CHOMPI is a quirky tape music machine featuring a one-of-a-kind sampling engine, unique multi-effects, and a tape-style looper. According to the creators, they used their creative skillsets and experiences as teachers, musicians, community partners, and graphic and sound designers to make something that is ready for immediate fun. 

CHOMPI offers a fun and inviting user experience on a flexible hardware DSP platform that promises an ever-evolving firmware library. It boasts powerful yet minimalistic multi-fx and will also play nice with other devices. Four modes of operation give it plenty of flexibility for all types of users. Thanks to the hot-swap-enabled mechanical keyboard and panel enclosures, the hardware is also very customizable.

The CHOMPI Kickstarter has a US$ 30,000 goal, with pledges starting at $29 for a “swag pack” up to $499 for the CHOMPI Sampler and $799 for the CHOMPI Club “super bundle.” The Kickstarter was fully funded in under one minute, and the estimated delivery date for backers is November 2023.

Matrix

Link: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/203null/matrix-grid-controller-for-lightshow-performance/description

Matrix Kickstarter

Matrix is a fully open-sourced grid controller specialized for live music performances, user customization, and much more. It is aimed at users who want extreme portability, wireless capability, open-sourced design, customizable software, and an affordable price. In addition to being one of the thinnest and most portable MIDI devices available, it boasts features such as velocity sensitivity, ambient underglow, and a magnetic module connection port. 

Hiding beneath the minimalist look of the Matrix is a hidden control button at the center and two hidden touch strips on the sides that allow for customizable control. In addition, it offers everything from USB-C and Bluetooth to WiFi and 2.4GHz connectivity options. While the creators promise to ship new features and apps in the future continually, the open-sourced and hackable operation system means users can create their own applications and customize the system if they have the know-how. 

Pledges for the Matrix started at $99 for early bird standard models and $169 for the Pro model, with an MSRP of $199. Thanks to 139 backers, the Kickstarter easily surpassed its $5,000 goal and ended at $25,887, with deliveries estimated in May 2023. 

Exquis

Link: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/dualointuitiveinstru/exquis-the-smartest-way-to-create-expressive-music/description

Exquis Kickstarter

Exquis is an expressive keyboard and intuitive app that is designed to play and compose today’s music efficiently. It is aimed at everyone from absolute beginners to couch composers, skilled musicians, and sound engineers by offering the quickest way to play and compose music. 

The Exquis Kickstarter had a €60,000 goal and ended up at €160,067 thanks to 745 backers. Recent updates revealed that it would feature an optimized keyboard and that the final electronic board has arrived, so everything is on track for delivery in April 2023.