Pocket Scion Brings Modular Synth Sounds to the Masses
The Pocket Scion, a new musical instrument developed in collaboration with viral musician Modern Biology, is now available for $149, offering a portable option for creators, reports 24brussels.
Modern Biology, who gained popularity by demonstrating control of a modular synth using biofeedback from mushrooms on TikTok, presented a compelling case for accessibility in music technology. The Pocket Scion provides similar capabilities without the hefty investment typically associated with a Eurorack system.
This device features a Scion module from Glasgow-based Instruo, which converts biofeedback into control voltage (CV) for managing other synthesizer modules. By connecting sensors to hands or organic matter, users can generate musical notes or modulate effects, enabling an interactive experience in sound creation.
Launched a little over a year after Modern Biology approached Instruo, the Pocket Scion emerged as a self-contained instrument that translates electrical changes from living organisms into MIDI data. It boasts four built-in sound engines for crafting unique soundscapes.
The Pocket Scion includes advanced features such as MIDI output to control external instruments. It also comes with a companion app compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux, providing sound design tools and data transmission via Open Sound Control (OSC) to interface with audio and video software like Max/MSP and Unreal Engine. This functionality enhances its versatility for complex artistic applications, especially considering its $149 price point.
The initial production run sold out rapidly, demonstrating significant demand. Preorders for the next batch, expected to ship early next week, are now open through the retailer Control Voltage.
