littleBits, maker of an open source library of electronic Bits modules that snap together with magnets, has officially announced its partnership with Korg to launch the new littleBits Synth Kit.

The new Synth Kit includes an assortment of 12 electronic Bits modules that snap together with magnets to create circuits like those used in KORG’s analog synthesizers. Modules included in the Synth Kit are power, oscillator (x2), filter, envelope, delay, keyboard, micro sequencer, mix, split, random, and synth speaker (which can connect to recording or live sound equipment).

“We’re excited to work together with industry leader KORG to design and launch the new littleBits Synth Kit,” said littleBits CEO Ayah Bdeir, right. “Our goal is to break technology down to its fundamental parts and put the power of electronics in the hands of everyone.”

The Synth Kit also includes a project booklet outlining step-by-step instructions for 10 projects. Accessories like mounting boards can be purchased separately to create a playable performance station.

And since the littleBits system is expandable, multiple Synth Kits can be used at once to create larger instruments. Users can also combine it with other littleBits modules to create complex visual, light, and mechanical installations, without wiring, soldering or programming.

Here’s a video demo of the Synth Kit in action:

The littleBits Korg Synth Kit



There are Twelve Bits modules:

One blue power module.

Nine pink input modules. The input modules are categorized as signal generators (Oscillators create sweeping tones), controllers (the keyboard produces voltages that create pitches), modifiers (the filter altera a sounds timbre), and modulators (random produces random voltages for sound control). two oscillator modules one random module one keyboard module one micro sequencer module one envelope module one filter module (based on Korg’s MS-20 synthesizer design) one delay module one mix module.

One orange wire module: the split module. Use this to send one signal to two different modules like using a keyboard to control two oscillators.

One green output module: the synth speaker module. This module amplifies the volume of your sonic creations and has an audio jack that can connect to recording or live sound equipment.

Open-Source designs give access to circuitry in order to enable iteration and creation of new designs.

Accessories:

One 9-volt battery and cable.

Optional mounting boards can be purchased to create a performance station.

Project Booklet:

Information on the included Bits modules and step-by-step instructions on creating circuits; 36 pages.

Educational information on the science of sound and the history of the synthesizer.

Ten projects with step-by step projects: Tuning, Play a Song, Spooky Sounds, Percussion Party, Metal Music, Synth Band, Synthesizer with the Works, Perform Like a Pro, Keytar and Synth Spin Table.

Supplemental information on creating sound-altering circuits, such as: pitch sweeps, white noise, key player, sequencer control, frequency modulation, shape your sounds, random voltage, filtering noise and echo and delay.

The new Synth Kits will be shipping the first week of December and available at littleBits.com and select specialty retailers for $159.