London-based creative design and invention studio Dentaku has developed a small device that allows users to create their own musical instruments out of everyday items.

The Ototo is a simple printed circuit board (PCB) synthesizer that combines sensors, inputs and touchpads as a means of producing sounds. The device can be used as a keyboard straight out of the box or can be attached to conductive materials using crocodile clips to create entirely new instruments.

The sounds produced by the Ototo can be manipulated by connecting electronic modules to its sensors. By way of example, Dentaku suggests that it can be used to create a “light theremin” that uses a light sensor to control the pitch of the sound. Other suggestions include making an electric drum kit out of saucepans or origami that “sings when touched.”

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