Superbooth 22: SOMA Labs TERRA – complex microtonal synth built into a tree
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SOMA Labs TERRA · Source: SOMA Labs
SOMA Labs TERRA · Source: SOMA Labs
SOMA Labs TERRA · Source: SOMA Labs
SOMA Labs TERRA · Source: SOMA Labs
TERRA is a conceptual device that invites us to fuse nature and technology by winding complex polyphonic microtonal sounds through the rings of a tree.
Update: New sound video added at the bottom.
TERRA
Somewhere within the fascinating interface lies the full range of a grand piano. You can tune each note with an accuracy of 125 steps per semitone. It has a unique system of pitch shifting using sensors where you can discover transposition and harmonic shapes. You’ll find notes with your fingers, and then apply velocity and pressure in interesting ways. It has dynamic sensors to control the timbre and modulations. With its three-axis motion sensor, you will have to become one with the tree.
SOMA Labs TERRA
Behind the beautiful front end is a digital synthesizer with 32 complex algorithms. TERRA is completely playable, like a musical instrument, and consequently has their own methods and creative directions. The synthesis flows from your playing and the focus is on the intuitive performance of the instrument rather than the programming of sounds.
Terra is like a descendant of the LYRA-8 combined with the principles of SOMA Labs’s ReFLEX technology. The demo video is fantastic! It gives a glimpse into the intention behind TERRA that no words could possibly explain.
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Natural hardware
There are 96 presets to play with, it has an effects engine and top-quality analogue parts around the digital heart. SOMA Labs made the case from a solid piece of wood making each one unique and different. In the video it’s only a prototype so there may be many changes along the way.
TERRA is a sanctuary for a natural soul right in the middle of the rumbling plastic world, a ground where you can breathe in and out slowly, and hold on to your roots.
TERRA is our dream about a bright future where we will be both technologically advanced and more connected to nature, where machines and technology are not a prison for our feelings and spirit but their extension.
SOMA Labs TERRA
The whole thing is intriguingly wonderful and as usual, there’s nothing else quite like it. SOMA Labs are not exactly sure when TERRA will be ready but you can sign up on the waiting list to be among the first to get it.
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- SOMA Labs TERRA: SOMA Labs
- SOMA Labs TERRA: SOMA Labs
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One response to “Superbooth 22: SOMA Labs TERRA – complex microtonal synth built into a tree”
Soma is getting so weird, I love it. Although none of their interfaces have been intriguing enough for me to consider coughing up that much cash. If this came as a DIY kit where I source my own tree maybe?