Unlock Sonic Landscapes: How to Control Synthesizers with Plants & Your Body
Have you ever imagined composing music with a living organism? It’s no longer science fiction. A fascinating new instrument, the Pocket Scion, is making biofeedback synthesis accessible to everyone – without the need for a complex adn expensive studio setup.
The Viral Inspiration: Modern Biology & Biofeedback Synthesis
The concept gained traction thanks to artist Modern Biology, who captivated audiences on TikTok with videos demonstrating control of a modular synthesizer using mushrooms. His innovative approach sparked curiosity about the potential of biofeedback in music creation.
But replicating his setup traditionally required a significant investment in Eurorack modules. That’s where the pocket Scion changes everything.
Introducing Pocket Scion: Biofeedback at Your Fingertips
Developed in collaboration with Modern Biology and Instruo, the Pocket Scion is a portable, self-contained instrument that translates the subtle electrical variations of living organisms into musical data. Essentially, it turns life into sound.
Here’s how it works:
Biofeedback Input: The device uses sensors to detect small electrical changes. You can connect to plants, or even use your own skin.
Signal Conversion: Touching two sensors completes a circuit. Fluctuations within that circuit are then converted into Control Voltage (CV) signals.
Musical Control: These CV signals can trigger notes,adjust filter cutoffs,or manipulate other parameters of a synthesizer.
Beyond the Basics: Features & Capabilities
The Pocket Scion isn’t just a novelty; it’s a surprisingly powerful tool for sound design and creative expression.
Standalone Instrument: it features four built-in sound engines, allowing you to create unique soundscapes directly.
MIDI Output: connect to external synthesizers and other MIDI-compatible instruments for expanded sonic possibilities.
Companion App: A dedicated app (available for Windows, macOS, and Linux) unlocks advanced sound design tools.
* OSC Support: Control audio and video programs like Max/MSP, Pure Data, and Unreal Engine via Open Sound Control (OSC) for immersive visual and audio installations.
Essentially, you can use the Pocket Scion to create reactive art, where the music and visuals respond to the electrical activity of living things.
The Technology Behind the Magic: Instruo’s Scion Module
At the heart of the Pocket Scion lies Instruo’s Scion module. Originally designed for modular synthesizers, Scion pioneered the concept of translating biofeedback into CV signals. The pocket Scion distills this technology into a more accessible and affordable package.
Availability & Pre-Ordering
The initial production run of the Pocket Scion quickly sold out, demonstrating strong demand. Though, pre-orders are currently being accepted for the next batch, expected to ship ”early next week” through retailers like Control Voltage.
The Pocket Scion is priced at $149, making it a remarkably affordable entry point into the world of biofeedback synthesis.
Ready to explore the intersection of music, art, and life? The Pocket Scion offers a unique and inspiring platform for sonic experimentation.