KnittedKeyboard II: A Wearable MIDI Keyboard
The KnittedKeyboard II is a groundbreaking prototype that uses digital knitting technology to create a unique musical instrument. It’s not just a keyboard; it’s a scarf, offering expressive playability and novel tactile interactions.
Innovative Design and Functionality
This five-octave keyboard boasts a familiar piano key layout. But what sets it apart is its Theremin-like characteristics, recognizing both pressure and proximity. This allows for expressive playing techniques beyond traditional keystrokes.
The Inventor: Irmandy Wicaksono
Irmandy Wicaksono, a PhD candidate at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), spearheaded the KnittedKeyboard II project.
Portability and Versatility
The KnittedKeyboard II’s fabric construction offers unparalleled portability. As the inventor states, this fabric keyboard “can be easily folded, rolled up, and packed in our luggage like a pair of socks or a scarf.”
The KnittedKeyboard II cleverly combines discrete controls from traditional keystrokes with expressive continuous controls from proximity sensors, adding a novel dimension to musical performance.
Interactive Features
Beyond standard playing, users can squeeze, pull, stretch, and twist the KnittedKeyboard II to create unique effects. The MIDI information generated can be sent to a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) like Ableton Live for further customization.
Future of the KnittedKeyboard II
While a commercially available version isn’t expected soon, the KnittedKeyboard II represents a significant step in the evolution of music technology. Its innovative design demonstrates the potential for creative and unexpected developments in musical instruments.
Read also: Anyone Can DJ in 2025, But What Makes You Stand Out?
* generate randomized username
- COMMENT_FIRST
- #1 Lord_Nikon [12]
- #2 Void_Reaper [10]
- #3 Cereal_Killer [10]
- #4 Dark_Pulse [9]
- #5 Void_Strike [8]
- #6 Phantom_Phreak [7]
- #7 Data_Drifter [7]
- #8 Cipher_Blade [6]
