In a creative twist on music technology, programmer Brek Martin has successfully repurposed a Sony PSP 3000 handheld gaming console into a digital guitar effects processor. This innovative project showcases how existing technology can be adapted for new uses, providing musicians with a unique alternative to traditional hardware effects.
Innovative Repurposing of Technology
Brek, who had previously developed applications for the PSP including a GPS mapping program and an audio recorder, utilized his programming skills to explore new possibilities for guitar sound effects. The PSP, initially designed for gaming, includes a microphone input as part of its headset connector. However, Brek discovered that the console requires a Sony remote’s PCB to be connected in order to recognize the microphone input.
To streamline the process, Brek created a custom circuit board that linked the remote’s hardware to a standard microphone jack and an output plug. This modification not only simplified the connection but also expanded the device’s functionality, allowing for the integration of various audio effects.
Implemented Audio Effects
In his project, Brek implemented three distinct audio effects: a flanger, a bitcrusher, and crossover distortion. The flanger works by mixing the current audio signal with a delayed version of itself, creating a sweeping sound. The bitcrusher effect reduces the audio sample rate, resulting in a choppier sound typical of retro digital audio. Crossover distortion, on the other hand, alters the signal as it crosses the zero point, adding a unique character to the audio output.
While Brek expressed interest in developing additional effects, he faced challenges with program lag that would have hindered performance. He noted that reducing the sample chunk size from 1024 samples could potentially enhance the speed, but he has not yet found a viable method to achieve this improvement.
This project highlights the potential for musicians and tech enthusiasts to leverage existing technology in innovative ways. For those seeking a more dedicated digital audio processor, Brek also suggests considering the construction of custom devices that incorporate techniques to minimize lag and enhance audio quality.
Brek Martin’s work not only demonstrates ingenuity in repurposing technology but also illustrates the ever-evolving landscape of music production tools. As musicians explore unconventional methods, the boundaries of creativity and technology continue to expand.
