Playtime Engineering’s Blipblox range offers a pair of toy-like synthesizers designed to introduce electronic instruments to children, teaching the basics of synthesis while still offering audio and MIDI connectivity. They have now announced plans to launch a Kickstarter campaign to fund Blipblox myTRACKS, a new unit which will bring MPC-like sampling and performance to the line-up.
The company say that the new instrument is a complete music production tool rather than just a drum machine or basic sampler — it boasts five tracks, comes kitted out with a built-in microphone and a pair of effects processors, and boasts 25 pads that are capable of triggering over 50 acoustic and electronic instrument sounds. A pair of effects levels will offer hands-on control over parameters such as filter frequencies, pitch-bend and effects controls, and the instrument will be loaded up with tools that allow users to arrange, record and save entire songs without using any additional equipment.
Despite its focus on providing young children with a starter instrument, Blipblox myTRACKS will feature MIDI connectivity to allow it to be used alongside other instruments and MIDI-enabled gear.
“Creating music with synthesizers and modern music tech has always felt like play to me. By merging the portability, durability and safety of toys with high-quality and advanced functionality of a legitimate instrument, we’ve created a fun and accessible music-making machine that anyone can play.” - Troy Sheets, Co-founder of Playtime Engineering
Availability
A Kickstarter campaign to support the production of myTRACKS will be launched on 9 April 2024. Playtime Engineering say that they expect units to be shipping by November 2024. Take a look at the company’s website to find out more.
