Make: Analog Synthesizers: Make Electronic Sounds the Synth-DIY Way

Ray Wilson

May 2013 · Maker Media, Inc.

About this ebook

Dive hands-on into the tools, techniques, and information for making your own analog synthesizer. If you’re a musician or a hobbyist with experience in building electronic projects from kits or schematics, this do-it-yourself guide will walk you through the parts and schematics you need, and how to tailor them for your needs. Author Ray Wilson shares his decades of experience in synth-DIY, including the popular Music From Outer Space (MFOS) website and analog synth community.

At the end of the book, you’ll apply everything you’ve learned by building an analog synthesizer, using the MFOS Noise Toaster kit. You’ll also learn what it takes to create synth-DIY electronic music studio. Get started in the fun and engaging hobby of synth-DIY without delay.

With this book, you’ll learn:

• The differences between analog and digital synthesizers
• Analog synthesizer building blocks, including VCOs, VCFs, VCAs, and LFOs
• How to tool up for synth-DIY, including electronic instruments and suggestions for home-made equipment
• Foundational circuits for amplification, biasing, and signal mixing
• How to work with the MFOS Noise Toaster kit
• Setting up a synth-DIY electronic music studio on a budget

Ratings and reviews

Good intro to DIY synthesis. I'd give one more star if there were more circuits and maybe less coverage of the kit projects.

so interesting

AAA BOSS NETWORK

About the author

Ray has been interested in analog synthesizers since the first time he heard "Switched On Bach" back in 1968. That magic box on the cover of the album with all of the knobs, switches and patch cords grabbed his attention and never let it go. After working at U.S. Steel, Intec Systems, Siemens Pacesetter, and Telectronics, he now runs his popular web site Music From Outer Space full-time. Most of his electronics learning has been hard won and experiential with hundreds of hours devoted to reading, bread-boarding, experimenting and appreciating analog synthesis.