Buchla Sili-Con Cello (1978–1979)
A desktop analog synth built for a cellist. It responds to acoustic performance gestures through a 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 for cellist Ami Radunskaya. It was built to perform a piece of the same name, in which acoustic cello sounds trigger electronic responses in real time. It has no keyboard. It is 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 has five Buchla 200 series modules - 281 Quad Function Generator, 292C Quad Lowpass Gate, 266 Source of Uncertainty, 259 Complex Wave Generator, and 270 Preamplifier - in a 203-8 Portable case with a model 214 power supply. A prototype A.I. binary counter module sits in the upper left corner. It interprets control voltages and gate signals to "play" the synth automatically. A microphone feeds a preamp and envelope generator, and the acoustic sounds become CV and gate signals that control the instrument. The program card also carries a mini breadboard with +/- 15V rails for custom patching.
Context
The name comes from its intended use, a performance piece called "Sili-Con Cello" composed for cellist Ami Radunskaya. She triggered the synth's responses through her acoustic playing.
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