Sound synthesis: A flexible modular approach with integrated circuits

Recent interest in environmental art has generated a need for sophisticated but inexpensive sound synthesis and lighting control systems which can be manipulated by artists unfamiliar with electronics. A system philosophy that meets these requirements is described. Maximum flexibility through voltage control of audio variables by separate functional modules and input-output voltage compatibility among all the modules forms the basis of the system. Extensive use of integrated circuit technology offers low cost and high reliability. Specific examples of modules, including a complete description of one module (a voltage-controlled oscillator), are used to elucidate the system design philosophy. The 42 modules of 10 different types that were constructed demonstrate both the feasibility of the input-output compatibility approach and the advantages of integrated circuit technology.