This page describes my latest DIY project.  I saw information in the synth-diy music group about this synthesizer project from Elby Designs.

I haven't decided the format I want to build this synthesizer in.  I have completed three different panel designs shown at the bottom of this page.  These designs all use small 20K 0.25" panel mount 1/8" shaft potentiometers.

I built the PCB and temporarily wired it into a 1U rack chassis.  I did not install the PCB power supply or the output driver.  I am using the +5 volt rack supply to power the prototype. I bought a STK-500 development kit from Digikey to program the ATMEGA16 processor.

Panel Designs

Shown are three different panel designs for a: 19" 1U rack style synthesizer, a MOTM 2U module, and a rectangular panel for a small wood cabinet to compliment my MIDI bass pedals. Note that the FrontPanelExpress design files have evolved and differ slightly from these images.

Here is the design for a 19" 1U rack format synthesizer.

19" rack FrontPanelExpress design file

Here is the design for a MOTM 2U module.  I've added a MIDI thru to help with the MIDI cabling.  I've raised the MIDI connectors slightly from the bottom to ensure there is adequate clearance for the bottom mounting rail.  I've also changed some of the switch nomenclature to better reflect my thinking about the AVR Synth functionality.

MOTM module FrontPanelExpress design file

Here is a rectangular design for a panel to fit a small wood cabinet.  I've since eliminated the power on LED and will use a single bi-color LED to indicate power and MIDI data.  I've also changed some of the switch nomenclature and designed this in a gold with black letters to match my MIDI bass pedals.

Black FrontPanelExpress design file

Gold FrontPanelExpress design file

Latest Update

I've since upgraded the processor to an ATMEGA32 at 16 MHz to run the updated software modifications by Daniel Krüe.  I don't have it all running yet as the switch and control mapping has changed and now requires external MIDI CC controls for operation.  I have written a program for my CVS that merges incoming MIDI with 16 controls that send the appropriate CC messages.

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