What’s in a Vocoder – voice synthesisers and Robots

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Kraftwerk, Styx and My Vocoder – Shaping human voices

Generating and shaping audio and RF wave patterns has long been an interest for many and is seen in the medical, military and commercial industries.

Not wanting to re-invent the wheel but rather looking at another spin, what is the appeal?

Although there are many makes and models, dedicated or otherwise two entry level but well rated models are the Roland VT-3 and the Paia Vocoder designed by Craig Anderton. Check out an upcoming series as we attempt to build our own.

An off-tuned SSB received signal through the BFO will create vocals which sound like monkey chatter or off pitch. It doesn’t take radio students long to see the multiple effects ring modulators and different tones have on the output.

Circuits and Kits

Instructables – Build and Analog Vocoder by Planetone

MFOS – Music from Outer Space / Article / Makezine

Ghetto Talk Box

Muffwiggler / Elektor 10 channel vocoder

And of course….

Crank That Soulja Boy Talk Box (from Ghetto Talk Box)

Audio Tools

Two of my favourite audio tools would be Audacity (free) -multitrack recording which allows effects and of course, Reaper, a fully equipped DAW. Free for 60 days then although not crippled, $60.00. You will not find this kind of software anywhere for this price.

Both the above allows vocoder inserts and with proper manipulation are exceptionally good.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0LUlNRjKeY0