Arcano MIDI NES Chiptune Synthesizer 2 Re-Creates Classic 8-Bit Nintendo Sounds

Well, good news for chiptune lovers (sounds like an ice-cream flavour anyone?) The Arcano MIDI NES Chiptune Synthesizer 2 is now on Kickstarter. Not only is it an obvious improvement on the original, but after 7 days it’s already doubled its pledge.

There’s no software to install, no programming required. All you need to do is connect a MIDI controller and start playing authentic NES style sounds!

So, here’s some details from Arcano Systems LLC on the new Arcano MIDI NES Chiptune Synthesizer 2:

“The design of the Arcano MIDI NES Chiptune Synth II is the culmination of the lessons learned from the original Arcano MIDI NES Chiptune Synthesizer project launched in 2015. The most valuable resource in the development of the Arcano MIDI NES Chiptune Synth II has been the feedback from the community of Kickstarter backers who funded the original project. The Arcano MIDI NES Chiptune Synth II features many hardware and software improvements on its predecessor including:

• more polyphony
• more waveforms
• more patches
• greater bass range
• improved volume envelope system for reduced latency
• linearized vibrato depth
• improved Mega-Man-II-style two-channel echo patches
• USB power
• lower parts count
• filtered audio output (low-pass filter with fixed cutoff frequency)
• better audio signal DC-bias removal

Hardware Specifications:

• standard MIDI DIN input
• 1/8'' (3.5mm) jack audio output (stereo connector with same signal in both channels)
• 7-segment LED display
• simple two-button interface
• embedded ATmega168 microcontroller
• mini-USB connector (power only)

Software Specifications:

• 4-note polyphony
• 32 preset patches
• 8 waveforms
• 8 vibrato patches
• 8 arpeggio patches
• 8 Mega-Man-II-inspired two-channel echo patches

At time of writing you can pick up a kit for as little as $75 (soldering skills required). Or a fully assembled kit for as little as $80.

Web: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/599725696/arcano-midi-nes-chiptune-synth-2-classic-nintendo