KOMA Elektronik has introduced Kassiopeia, a 4-channel DC interface that lets you control motors, solenoids, LEDs, fans, lights and more using MIDI or CV/Gate.
Kassiopeia lets you control motors, solenoids, fans, LEDs and lamps using MIDI or CV/Gate. Each channel can send short triggers, which can be used for things like triggering percussive hits, or continuous voltages, for doing things like controlling motors.
It was developed in collaboration with composer Hildur Guðnadóttir and her band Osmium, incorporating ideas from the modified Halldorophone, used in the Joker soundtrack.
Osmium uses custom robotic string instruments controlled by solenoids, motors, and physical triggers powered by Kassiopeia. The devices rhythmically strike, bow, or vibrate the strings during live performances.
Kassiopeia lets you:
- Trigger solenoids to create percussive rhythms on any object.
- Control motors and fans to shak, vibrate, or bow strings.
- Control lamps and LEDs for an immersive performance.
- Build kinetic sound sculptures that interact with the physical world.
- Power-starve devices for glitchy, unpredictable results.
Pricing and Availability:
Kassiopeia is available now for $369 USD/298,00 €. Compatible DC motors and Solenoids are also available.
This is sort of cool.
However, why would I buy this over Koma’s own Field Kit? That has the same functionality as this plus a whole lot more for the same price.
This new one has four drivers instead of the single driver on Field Kit. Since Field Kit has four inputs for piezos these should player really nicely together.
Thanks for for the info.
I’ll keep an eye out for some more detailed videos etc.
Though, if I’m honest, the Field Kit and it’s extra solenoids etc are probably enough for me.
And MIDI
I read that as “Soma” instead of Koma and I was baffled. Soma already has the illuminator, which has 8 cv inputs which control 8 12v outputs.
However, this is Koma and has Midi as well, plus what looks like 9 – 24v, which is much more flexible.