The theremin is a one-of-a-kind musical instrument, renowned for its ethereal and eerie sound. Invented in 1920 by the Russian physicist Lev Sergeyevich Termen, also known as Leon Theremin, this instrument embodies human ingenuity and creativity. What makes the theremin so unique is that it can be played without being touched: the musician controls the...
Category: Amplification and Electronic Musical Instruments
The Ondes Martenot Synthesizer: History and Characteristics
The Ondes Martenot is one of the earliest electronic synthesizers in history, invented by Frenchman Maurice Martenot in 1928. Martenot was a cellist and a radio telegraph technician who, during World War I, experimented with sound interference between radio oscillators. Inspired by the theremin, another electronic instrument invented by Russian Leon Theremin, Martenot aimed to...
Musical Synthesizers: History, Evolution, and Characteristics of Synths
Musical synthesizers, also known as Synths, have come a long way since their inception at the end of the 19th century. Today, they are more powerful and affordable than ever, and are used in all musical genres. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced musician, a synthesizer can be a valuable tool for creating unique...
Moog Synthesizers: History and Characteristics
Moog has always been a reference brand for professional keyboardists and electronic music enthusiasts worldwide. Moog synthesizers are renowned for their build quality, versatility, and, most importantly, their unique and distinctive sound. Many world-famous artists and bands have used these iconic instruments in their performances, contributing to the brand’s popularity and respect within the music...
The Hammond Organ: The Sound and the Invention of a Genius
The Hammond Organ takes its name from its “father,” the brilliant engineer and inventor Laurens Hammond, who, at 14 years old, approached Renault with a design for an automatic gear mechanism he had developed. Although the French automaker rejected his proposal, Hammond was undeterred, fully aware of his extraordinary abilities. Laurens Hammond can undoubtedly be...
Headphone Amp: A Guide to Choosing the Right One
The need for a headphone amplifier is often, and mistakenly, associated with sound-quality purists who demand and expect an obsessively perfect audio output. In reality, anyone can benefit, often significantly and satisfyingly, from the use of a headphone amplifier. The widespread availability and distribution of these devices, no longer limited to professional or audiophile environments,...
Microphone: History and Types
As with any invention of significant technological impact and revolutionary properties in its field, the microphone is surrounded by controversy. Amid light and shadow over the parentage of the microphone, it remains unclear, comprehensive, and evident from which mind, laboratory, or specific project this object, now present in everyday life, emerged. Let us delve deeper...
Hi-Fi Headphones: How to Choose Them
Music is an essential medium that conveys all kinds of emotions. Whether it’s energy or a pleasant feeling of relaxation, music can be a source of pleasure throughout the day. To fully enjoy music and audio files, more people are choosing Hi-Fi headphones, expanding the community of dedicated audiophiles. Below, we’ll explore the features, types,...
Loudspeakers/Acoustic Systems: How They Work and Prices
Acoustic speakers or loudspeakers are systems capable of sound diffusion through a transduction process, meaning the conversion of electricity into sound waves. There are many different types, varying in size and functionality. The Origins of Acoustic Speakers Today, acoustic speakers are everywhere. Speakers can be found in computers, TV remotes, MP3 players, and more… we...
Active Speakers: Operation, Components, Materials, and Prices
Active speakers – or powered speakers – are loudspeakers with a built-in power amplifier, offering the significant advantage of requiring no additional cables, making them very convenient for transport.These speakers are excellent for indoor use, such as in dance halls, conferences, presentations, or for live music evenings in venues. They can also be used in...