An Australian company known as AUUG is looking to shake up electronic music with the introduction of its new Motion Synth. The device uses the motion sensing feature of an iPod touch or iPhone to alter and create music.
AUUG works at a few different levels. First, there is the app that the user downloads, which allows them to choose a scale, the octave, whether the octave changes with device orientation, and other kinds of settings. The app itself does not actually make a sound, but instead controls other iOS music applications or external devices. It also features buttons that, along with the movement of the user, control the music.
For laptops and other iOS applications, no wires are required to connect. For users looking to connect to an older MIDI player, a special cable is available which will open up motion-controlled music to plenty of other devices.
The other important part of the system is the AUUG Grip, which serves as a case for the iPhone, a screen overlay, and a wrist strap that allows the user to play music without directly holding their device. The screen overlay folds over the phone when closed in the case, and it allows users to get some tactile feedback as they touch the buttons on the screen.
The company says that it designed the grip with touring musicians in mind, and as such, it has been created with aircraft grade aluminum. This should allow it to take a beating while on the road.
The next part of the system is the AUUG cloud, which allows users to share presets and download other users' settings. It also features a forum where users can share ideas and techniques.
Only iPhone models 4S and higher, and iPod touch 5th generation are supported. The company says it does not support Android because "the range of audio apps for Android is not as extensive as for iOS." It is open to supporting the mobile OS down the road, but for now, it's keeping its focus narrow.
AUUG is seeking funding on Kickstarter for its application, grip, and website. The company still has a ways to go to reach its US$70,000 goal. However, it still has plenty of time remaining in its funding period. Buyers interested in getting access to all three parts of the system will need to pledge $68 while the early specials last, and the required pledge goes up to $78 after that.
The Kickstarter pitch video below shows the Motion Synth in action, which is the best way to get an understanding of what it does.
Sources: AUUG, Kickstarter