Tasty Chips has launched a Kickstarter project to fund production of the GR-2 Next-Generation Hardware Granular Workstation.
The Tasty Chips GR-2 is a hardware granular workstation featuring a touchscreen-driven interface, four synthesis engines, multi-layer polyphony, and extensive audio and MIDI connectivity for sound design and performance.
Here’s the official video intro:
The GR-2 is the next-generation hardware instrument from Tasty Chips Electronics, designed as a multi-layer granular and sampling workstation that builds on the architecture of the GR-1 and GR-MEGA.
It uses a 7-inch color touchscreen as the primary interface and combines four simultaneous layers of sound generation, each capable of high polyphony and deep granular processing. The instrument integrates multiple synthesis and playback engines within a unified performance system, with a workflow centered around real-time manipulation, sampling, and structured sound design.
Compared to earlier models, the GR-2 expands both synthesis scope and I/O capabilities, positioning itself as a hybrid instrument for studio and live use.
Features:
- Four sound layers, each capable of up to 16-voice polyphony
- Granular engine with up to 128 grains per voice and up to 4000 grains system-wide
- Four integrated engines: granular, sampler, tape, and spectral processing
- 7-inch high-resolution color touchscreen interface for primary control
- Sample recording capability (up to approximately 5 minutes 49 seconds) and audio import support
- Stereo 1/4″ audio inputs and stereo 1/4″ outputs for external sampling and output routing
- USB-C connectivity providing multichannel audio interface functionality (8 inputs / 10 outputs)
- Full MIDI implementation including multi-source support and advanced MIDI control options
- MPE support and polyphonic MIDI features including aftertouch and NRPN control
- Two assignable CV inputs for modular integration and parameter modulation
- Voice architecture featuring multiple envelopes and a multimode state-variable filter per voice
- System designed for layered patch creation and real-time granular manipulation
- Shared firmware lineage with GR-MEGA enabling patch compatibility across platforms
Pricing & Availability:
The GR-2 is available via Kickstarter with early bird pricing starting around €849. The campaign positions the instrument for production following funding, with shipping targeted for September 2026.
Note: Crowdfunding projects involve risk. See the project page for details.
