The SID Groove is a monophonic audio synthesizer module based on the MOS 6581 "SID" (Sound Interface Device) IC. Based loosely on the concept of the SIDstation, the unit has a variety of input methods for the various controls: MIDI, an array of potentiometers, and a multipoint touchpad. Handling the synthesis functions is the SID chip from the Commodore 64. A pair of PIC 16F877 microcontrollers interface the inputs with the SID, and allow many of the SID's parameters to be controllable via the potentiometers. A Tactex MTC Express touchpad is utilized to control several other functions of the SID, such as the cutoff frequency and resonance of the built-in filter.

The SID Groove is a proof-of-concept device, to be used as the basis of a more powerful synthesizer later on. It is a working prototype, playable via a MIDI keyboard and controlled by the various inputs. The touchpad is a very unique method for controlling the resonance and cutoff frequencies of the SID's output filter. With proper software algorithms, the touchpad can allow the user to create very original sounds with the unit, and in turn also create a new method of musical performance.

Downloads

Demo Instructions

To get SIDgroove up and running in a matter of minutes, follow these instructions:

• Hook up the main breadboard to a powersupply, approximately +13 to +15V.
• Connect one end of a standard MIDI cable to an external keyboard and the other end to the 5-pin female DIN connector of the SIDstation. Connect the MTC Express touchpad to the DB9 serial port connector.
• Apply power to the keyboard and MTC Express.
• Apply power to the SIDgroove.
• Connect the 1/4" audio output of the SIDgroove to either headphones or any other device that accepts an audio input; this is to hear the output from the SIDgroove
• Set the MIDI keyboard to transmit on Channel 1, and play a note. The SIDgroove should now output sound through its audio output.
• Turn the ADSR (attack / decay / sustain / release) knobs of the SIDgroove to change the volume envelope of the instrument.
• Move a finger around on the touchpad and change the resonant filter output of the SIDgroove.

Hardware Schematics

• Connections to/from master PIC16F877
• Connections to/from MOSF6581
• Assorted I/O connections
• Connections to/from slave PIC16F877

Related Links

The Old SIDgroove homepage

Related Projects

Parts of the design were inspired by Thorsten Klose's MIDIbox Plus. The base ideas was inspired by the Elektron SIDstation.

Contact Information