Buchla Sili-Con Cello (1978–1979)
A desktop analog synth built for a cellist, designed to respond to acoustic performance gestures via microphone input and custom control logic.
Overview
The Buchla Sili-Con Cello is a one-of-a-kind desktop analog synthesizer made in 1978–1979 specifically for cellist Ami Radunskaya. It was created to perform a piece of the same name, where acoustic cello sounds trigger electronic responses in real time. Unlike traditional synths, it has no keyboard and is designed as an interactive instrument that interprets live acoustic input.
Specifications
| Engine Type | Analog |
| Voices (max) | 1 |
| Multitimbral | 1 |
| Oscillators | * |
| Keys | 0 |
| Key type | N/A |
| Velocity | N/A |
| Aftertouch | N/A |
Design
The Sili-Con Cello consists of five Buchla 200 series modules—281 Quad Function Generator, 292C Quad Lowpass Gate, 266 Source of Uncertainty, 259 Complex Wave Generator, and 270 Preamplifier—housed in a 203-8 Portable case with a model 214 power supply. A prototype A.I. binary counter module in the upper left corner interprets control voltages and gate signals to "play" the synth automatically. Using a microphone connected through a preamp and envelope generator, acoustic sounds generate CV and gate signals that control the instrument. It also features a mini breadboard with +/- 15V rails on the program card for custom patching.
Context
The instrument was named after its intended use: a performance piece called "Sili-Con Cello" composed for cellist Ami Radunskaya, who triggered the synth’s responses through her acoustic playing.
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