Optical Synthesizers

The Theremin uses the proximity of one’s hands to two antennas to appropriate pitch and volume. An Optical Theremin (named to illustrate the sound it emulates, rather than its inventor) uses a photoresistor or photocell similar to those found on solar yard lights to appropriate pitch. The photoresistor detects light, rather than proximity and this idea was utilized by composer/inventor Raymond Scott in his Circle Machine. This aptly named contraption rotated a photocell around several lights on independent dimmers. A demonstration of this device can be found on this page. A similar, yet much more versatile invention is that of organist/inventor Mr. Quintron. Rather than rotating a photocell, Quintron’s Drum Buddy rotates a turntable on which rests an opaque cylinder with strategically placed holes that permit light to escape onto the stationary photocells. Each light-sensing circuit is individually tuned to create a unique sound, replicating unique kick, snare, bass/organ and scratch sounds. Furthermore, one can imitate record scratching by manually interfering with the rotation of the cylinder. A demonstrative infomercial can be found at this site. Mr. Quintron and Miss Pussycat performed with the Drum Buddy recently at Calgary’s Sled Island Festival.

Sarah demonstrates the Wurlitzer Sideman to a captivated King Khan, Mr. Quintron and Miss Pussycat.