Looking more like a VGA card than a Moog, the SuONOIO is capable of pumping out all sorts of glitchy noise and madness.
The SuONOIO synthesizer is a collaborative effort between Alessandro Cortini (Modwheelmod, SONOIO, NIN, etc.) and The Harvestman (maker of modular synth equipment). It is quite a bizarre little beast of a synthesizer. Looking more like a VGA card than a Moog, the SuONOIO is capable of pumping out all sorts of glitchy noise and madness. It runs off either a 9V battery or power supply (not included) and can either be used with the built in speaker or plugged in to your other studio gear using its 1/4” output (I would recommend using the output as the speaker has limited range and distorts at higher volumes).
The heart of the synthesizer is two identical sound banks of sixteen samples taken from Alessandro’s SONOIO album. Each sample bank has a knob for selection as well as pitch controls. Noticeably absent, however, are inputs to trigger the sounds with other gear; once you turn it on, it immediately starts making sound. This makes it a bit tricky to sync things up with other gear. I found myself sampling it into my sound editor and using chopped pieces in my DAW.
Sounds can be modified in several different ways. Each of the twin patch banks has a series of jumpers that can turn the various effects on and off as well as patching available via mini patch cords. In regards to the sound mangling tools available, the synth comes with a couple of different distortions, an LFO, delay (with multiple settings), random on/off generator, sample reverse and an octave up effect. The included manual is a simple one page, but it is really just a reference to each of the pins and jumpers function. Once you take a quick once over of the manual I recommend jumping in head first and start patching. With the sound mangling tools built in, the samples will be unrecognizable in seconds.
Priced at $159.99, it is a nice introduction to semi modular synthesis. I will say, however, that this machine is not for everyone and will most likely appeal most to noise artists or people wanting to add some glitchy rhythmic elements to their compositions. According to the SuONOIO website, the first batch of 200 units have already sold out and they are taking pre-orders for the next set due to be available in January, 2011. It will be quite interesting to see where they take this microbrew approach to synthesis next.
The SuONOIO synthesizer can be purchased here.
