After somewhat success with my first Electro-Theremin (Meaning I could play it), I wanted to make an instrument that was more playable and accurate. So in 2000, with limited everything, I tried to make a new Electro-Theremin.
Using all the innards of the frist prototype, I spent a lot of time perfecting the sliding mechanism using some simple construction techniques. It slides very nice, and makes it very playable much moreso than the string-operated first prototype. I also spent a lot of time on the front panel, which I made at a local sign company on some scrap lexan.
Anyways, the thing looks awesome, plays and sounds great. However, the thing isn't stable and I'm not quite sure why. If you leave the slider alone, the pitch will slowly vary up and down almost 1/4 step in frequency. It isn't a HUGE deal, since you still sort of have to play an Electro-Theremin by ear. But it was enough to piss me off and completely discourage me from wanting to build these for other people (as the plan originally was). So I stuck it in a corner of the basement quite a while ago and it has been used for parts since.
I figure it is either the cheap-ass $20 function generator circuit that I used, or the cheap potentiometers. Or a combination of both, and maybe something to do with it being battery powered, and maybe some RF interference or something. Either way, I have begun a new prototype, entitled (you Guessed it!) "Prototype 3". The circuit to generate the waveforms is costing nearly 4 times as much to make, and the enclosure is going to be completely redesigned. I've already started purchasing more powertools so I can make the enclosure more intricate. I've also decided to try using 20-turn wirewound potentiometers to control the pitch, which also cost around $20 each as apposed to the $3 ones Prototype 2 used.
Prototype 2 was good and all, but nothing I'd feel comfortable selling (that's the perfectionist in me). So I'm hoping this summer's Prototype 3 will KILL anything I've made thus far. It will also feature lexan control panel, it will be AC powered and it should be stable as a rock. It will output Sine or Triangle wave and it should kick ass. Hopefully I get it done!
If you are interested in possibly purchasing an Electro-Theremin once I get the newest prototype completely finished, feel free to Email Me about it. I could use some musician input when it comes to designing the instrument as well
To give you an idea of what Prototype 3 might look like, I've included some pictures of Prototype 2.
Prototype 2 pictures!
