A Paper Bits workshop by Wolfgang Spahn

Date: 20. - 21. March 2020
Time: 11am to 7pm
Workshop Fee: 90€
Material: 50€
8 seats are available

at Studio W.Spahn
Gerichtstr. 12-13, Aufgang 5
Berlin Wedding (S-Bahn Humboldhain)

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Registration
or via mail: post(at)wolfgang-spahn.de

Paper Bits is a small voltage controlled modular synthesizer system, created by Berlin based artist Wolfgang Spahn. Its simple design, accessible interface as well as low price offer a powerful sound tool dedicated to learning, experimenting and playing.

Analog synthesizers are known for their warm, rich, organic, and completely continuous sound, that arises from its analog waveform. Today, musicians, sound artists and DJ's are attracted by the opportunities that come with the sound-shaping functions of the analog synthesizer, such as sound producing circuitry and voltage control. While digital synthesizers are based on binary representations of various sound and instrument waveform that are stored in read only memory (ROM), the analog waveform allows for performatively generated sounds that exist only in the moment. Thus, it is possible to create finely nuanced tones, noises, and interference, or to generate imprecise and delayed sounds.

In contrast to the analog synths of the 60's, the modular analog synthesizers of today are less complex for standardized components, separable access and plug-and-socket connections (instead of patch cables) make for an easy set-up. Thus, using the instrument is just cool. Wolfgang Spahn's modular synthesizer system is based on Paper PCB and also comes with plug-and-socket connections. Therefore there is no need to fabricate circuit boards, because a simple color printer will do. It's rapid prototyping: each component can be created in an instant, and it's also possible to design them specifically.

Obviously, Paper Bits are very resourceful as they can be created and further developed without needing too many resources such as time, budget, space or weight. Newcomers may want to experiment with analog sounds, whereas professionals will appreciate how easily one can create new modules or develop special effects. However, Paper-bits are an amazing experimental platform for creating analog sounds that are digitally controlled by an Arduino.

In the two day workshop we will build two modules (plus a basic power and output board) as the core of our Paper Bits. We learn the basics about analog oscillators and how to control them digitally, and also patching and playing Paper Bits.

Beside a basic power and output board: PB321 Supply Unit all participants can choose and build two out of these modules:

• PB101 Sync VCO (two synced VCO)
• PB109 VCO II (a sine wave VCO)
• PB201 Step Sequencer (an Arduino based 8 step sequencer)
• PB401 Echo (delay and echo)
• PB702 Midi Synth (a MIDI controlled polyphonic synthesizer)
• PB701 Electric Intonarumori (a noise and FX module)

For other modules please ask beforehand.
All the tool and materials will be provided. The workshop will be held in English and German.