stepper motors and cassette tapes, something I call the Ca.Step

A rough render of the Ca.Step

Hey all,

A friend directed me toward Dorkbot for help with my project. To put it most bluntly, I want to control a cassette tape with a pair of stepper motors via MIDI. From my research, I think the easiest way to build a prototype would be with a make controller programmed with MAX/MSP. My personal background is in studio engineering and production. I am knowledgeable in most forms of audio manipulation. Unfortunately I have yet to learn the ins and outs of MAX. My ultimate goal for this project is to release an open source Ca.Step device aimed at Djs and audio tinkerers, sort of like the Monome. If this product every reaches that level I can't say, although I would be perfectly happy with just making a few prototypes and having them for myself and fellow nerds. If all this banter piques your interest, and you might be willing to lend your knowledge, please let me know. Just imagine the audio mayhem that could be accomplished with this sort of unit. Pseudo tape delay? Sure! Crazy audio scrubbing/scratching? Why not! Things I haven't even thought of? Undoubtedly! I will be attending the next L.L. meeting if my schedule allows to further discuss my idea, and get to know everyone.

Thanks!!

J


Comments

Welcome!

First, you might consider looking at the Arduino platform as a cheaper alternatives to the Make controller board. Also, I would strongly recommend signing up for our mailing lists (see http://dorkbotpdx.org/wiki/mailing_lists) and posting your questions there. Of course, coming to the meetings is also highly recommended. ;~)


you so crazy!

First, that is a crazy idea!

Second, try Pd (pure data) instead of Max/MSP, because it is at least two kinds of free, and you are not yet married to Max.

The crazy part is, once you get the hang of Pd, it will be way easier to do your whole project in software than to make a custom tape deck (and I'm not even a software person.) But crazy is good right?

Hope I get to see you at a meeting!