Aurora: A Revolutionary Synthesizer Redefining Electronic Music

Introducing the Aurora Synthesizer, a Game-Changer in Electronic Music

The Aurora synthesizer, designed by Mohamad Montazeri, is a groundbreaking innovation in the world of electronic music. This unique instrument utilizes a green laser to control effects and sound filters, providing composers with a new and captivating way to create music. Inspired by the mesmerizing beauty of the aurora borealis, the Aurora synthesizer offers a truly immersive and unforgettable musical experience.

What sets the Aurora synthesizer apart from traditional synthesizers is its use of a laser to manipulate sound effects and filters. By replacing touchpads and sliders with this creative method, the Aurora synthesizer enhances ease of use and accelerates the composer's actions. The laser not only adds a visually stunning element to performances but also offers a more enjoyable and unique experience for both the composer and the audience.

In addition to the laser control, the Aurora synthesizer features a touch screen for effortless settings and status display. This multi-touch screen allows composers to play a digital keyboard and further enhances the user-friendly interface of the instrument.

The Aurora synthesizer is crafted using high-quality materials and advanced technology. The body of the instrument is made of ABS plastic through the injection molding method, ensuring durability and a sleek design. The laser is generated by a specialized generator and directed towards the composer for easy access. The length of the laser beam is adjusted by a processor, correlating with the frequency of each sound. As the composer manipulates the length of the laser beam, the corresponding sound frequency changes, providing endless possibilities for musical expression.

Technical specifications of the Aurora synthesizer include dimensions of 380 x 340 x 48 mm and a weight of 2.7 kg. The instrument boasts a wide range of effects, including Bit Crash, Fuzz, DIST, Pitch Shifter, PHASER, FLANGER, Tempo sync, Panning Delay, DELAY, LOW BOOST, Reverb, and more. The oscillator section offers various waveform options such as SAW, SQUARE, PULSE/PWM, TRIANGLE, SINE, NOISE, and SUPER SAW. The filter section provides LPF, HPF, BPF, and PKG filter types, while the LFO section offers TRIANGLE, SINE, SAW, SQUARE, and Sample LFO shapes. These features, along with many others, make the Aurora synthesizer a versatile and powerful tool for composers.

Operating the Aurora synthesizer is an intuitive and engaging experience. The laser beam, automatically set with the sound of each section, can be manipulated by the composer's hand to change the type of sound. By interrupting the laser beam's path, the composer can increase or decrease its length, resulting in a corresponding change in sound. Laser buttons allow for the quick selection and control of desired effects or filters, while the shift button enables instant switching. The instrument also features knobs, sliders, and buttons for adjusting oscillators, effects, filters, AMP, LFO, and other parameters. Additionally, the touchscreen display offers digital settings and a multi-touch virtual keyboard for seamless composition.

The Aurora synthesizer project spanned over 24 months, from 2019 to 2021. Throughout the design process, extensive research was conducted to ensure the laser technology seamlessly integrated with the instrument's sound characteristics. Overcoming creative, technical, and research challenges, the Aurora synthesizer now stands as a testament to the advancement of electronic music composition.

Recognized for its exceptional design, the Aurora synthesizer was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Musical Instruments Design category in 2021. This prestigious accolade celebrates designs that showcase ingenuity, technical prowess, and a commitment to improving the quality of life through art, science, design, and technology.

With its innovative laser control, captivating design, and powerful features, the Aurora synthesizer is revolutionizing the world of electronic music. Composers can now explore new realms of creativity and deliver mesmerizing performances that captivate audiences worldwide.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Mohamad Montazeri
Image Credits: Image #1 : Creator Mohamad Montazeri, Aurora, 2021. Image #2 : Creator Mohamad Montazeri, Aurora, 2021. Image #3 : Creator Mohamad Montazeri, Aurora, 2021. Image #4 : Creator Mohamad Montazeri, Aurora, 2021. Image #5 : Creator Mohamad Montazeri, Aurora, 2021.
Project Team Members: Mohamad Montazeri
Project Name: Aurora
Project Client: Mohamad Montazeri


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