Benjolin Light Synth

casperelectronics · Joined: Feb 13, 2008 Posts: 23 Location: Troy Ny usa

I'm almost done with a dual benjolin unit. The latest addition is a high power tri color LED display. I used a 1W tri color LED, Each channel draws 350mA. they're bright!
The beauty of it (beyond how cool the light looks) is how simple it is. I wired up three FETs (high power transistors) to accept signals from one of the 8 benjolin outputs and the signal drives the LED. The LEDs are powered with a 1.5 amp 5 voltDC power supply.

The PWM output is especially useful since PWM is a common means of fading LEDs. By using the PWM signal out you can create some really nice, smooth pulsing. The more choppy signals are cool too!

I like how the patterns overlap to create complex color mixing effects.
I also like that the signals used to control the lights can be taken from signals that may not be apparent in the audio signal but are still linked. The audio to visual connection isn't always immediately apparent, but the link becomes apparent and it never seems purely random.

MusicMan11712 · Posted: Sun Apr 04, 2010 9:14 am Post subject:

I just checked out the demos on your website. Very nice indeed!!!

Tim Servo · Posted: Sat Apr 24, 2010 9:10 pm Post subject:

Completely awesome! Reminds me of Doctor Who piloting the TARDIS. Smile

Tim (Doctor Huh?) Servo