Critter & Guitari’s lineup of hackable music computer systems and video synths are undeniably distinctive. They do issues that virtually no different instrument can, plus they’re in all probability probably the most visually distinctive moveable music units on the market. Its newest creation is the 201 Music Synthesizer, an arguably lengthy overdue alternative for the corporate’s first product — the Pocket Piano. 

Like its flagship Organelle, the 201 is constructed on open supply software program, particularly Pure Data and Faust. But relatively than attempting to be all issues to everybody, it is extra narrowly targeted. It ships with six built-in synth engines masking chiptune-style bleeps, analog-esque sounds, drum samples, bodily modeling (possible by way of Karplus Strong), and vocal synthesis. Rather than 4 knobs that fluctuate in goal relying on what patch you’ve got loaded (which can or could not have notably good documentation, relying on who created it), the 201 has three parameter knobs for envelope, tone and “surprise” — for if you simply desire a pleased accident. 

One of the issues that makes the 201 actually standout although, is the sample generator and sequencer. While you may merely play notes dwell and document them for later recall, the synth may also create patterns for you. A few presses on the distinctive maple keys and the 201 will begin spitting out easy octave jumps, arpeggios or random polyphonic chaos. And if one thing strikes your fancy, it can save you that as nicely. And it can save you actually hundreds of sequences to the included 8GB microSD card. 

Like the Organelle, you may really hack collectively your personal patches for the 201 utilizing Pure Data or Faust, however that is extra of a pleasant bonus than the principle promoting level right here. Under the hood of the 201 is a 900Mhz ARM processor with 512MB RAM, which must be lots for many synth patches, nevertheless it’s not fairly as highly effective because the Organelle M. The 201 additionally has a built-in speaker, a 1/4-inch stereo out jack, 1/8-inch MIDI out and in, USB-A for connecting MIDI controllers, and USB-C for accessing the information on the microSD card.

Of course, to be a real alternative for the Pocket Piano, the 201 additionally must be moveable. So, along with the AC adapter, it may be powered by three AA batteries. And at about one pound and a bit of over nine-inches lengthy, it is fairly straightforward to toss in a backpack. 

The Critter & Guitari 201 Music Synthesizer is presently crowd funding over at Kickstarter and has already surpassed its purpose. If you’d prefer to safe one once they begin delivery in April of 2023 you may again it earlier than December twentieth for $295.