(Left) LEV-96 in the raw (Right) closer to production device (via MoogMusic)
Moog Music has been going strong since the early 50’s with products like theremin kits and Moog Modular synthesizer systems. Now they’re set to unveil the LEV-96 for acoustic guitars. According to Moog, the LEV-96 is a ‘sensoriactuator’ that is able to bring hidden harmonic/resonant frequencies (in this case from guitar strings) into the spectrum of human hearing from any ferromagnetic medium. Essentially, the device picks up the vibrational resonance from the strings that have previously been unheard but were nonetheless there all along. The LEV-96 was designed by placing 2 pick-up channels underneath each string which is able to control 8 harmonics per string resulting in a total of 96 harmonic resonances that can be handled at any given time. The harmonics are controlled by an onboard micro-processor (unknown as to which) and controlled through capacitive touch-based ‘sliders’ which can adjust the frequencies (harmonics, intensity and note sustainment). The device also has additional touch-based controls that provide additional settings such as tremolo, arpeggio and other various harmonic manipulations almost like using add-on effects pedals. The system settings are able to be locked so the player doesn’t inadvertently hit the controls while playing. Don’t get overly excited musicians, the LEV-96 is still being developed and is only in the working prototype stage. Chances are it will be ready for the consumer market sometime next year.
Cabe
