Show HN: I built a synth for my daughter (bitsnpieces.dev)

Article summary

The author built a portable step-sequencer synthesizer for their daughter's third birthday, featuring an onboard synth module, tempo and volume controls, and an OLED screen with visual feedback. The project involved learning about microcontrollers, CAD, PCB design, and 3D printing. The author is considering making a small batch of these synths and potentially bringing the product to market. The synthesizer is designed to be a child-friendly, tactile music toy that can be used by people of all ages.

Main themes

• DIY electronics
• Music education
• Product design
• Parenting and child development
• Synthesizer technology

What commenters say

• The project is an inspiring example of a DIY electronics project that can be used to introduce children to music and technology.
• The synthesizer's design and functionality make it accessible to people of all ages and skill levels, not just children.
• Bringing a product like this to market would require significant investment in safety certification, manufacturing, and regulatory compliance.
• There are existing products on the market that offer similar functionality, such as the Teenage Engineering Pocket Operator and the Dato Duo.
• Designing and manufacturing a PCB can be a relatively straightforward and affordable process, especially for simple circuits.
• The cost and complexity of designing and manufacturing a PCB can vary greatly depending on the complexity of the circuit and the chosen manufacturer.
• Some commenters believe that the project's focus on making music accessible to children is liberating and can help to foster a love of music, while others think that it may not be the best approach for serious music education.
• The project's use of a custom-designed PCB and 3D-printed enclosure is a key aspect of its design and functionality.