Artiphon releases its third music-making machine, Chorda

Following a flurry of other synths being released, Artiphon has announced its brand-new instrument named Chorda.

About a week ago, Artiphon pledged their third instrument on Kickstarter and today they have reached beyond their target of US$25,000, raising US$339,393 so far.

This little tool that fits perfectly anywhere, is said to be an all-in-one device — a smart synth, looper and MIDI controller. You wouldn’t need to carry multiple bulky instruments around anymore as it includes many instrument styles such as the guitar, piano, drums, synths and more.

Chorda also allows one to play it flat as a piano or strum sideways like a guitar.

The device includes 12 capacitive sense pads that respond through lights that beam different colours when played, have the same width as piano keys and respond to the intensity of your fingers as they tap against sensors.

At the end of the 12th pad, there is a bridge pad which includes six triggers that creates a strumming sound from any instrument. Chorda also features a built-in accelerometer and gyroscope to allow a free range of movements while adjusting to the type of instrument that the user picks.

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There are four different modes in which the Chorda can be utilized — drum, bass, chord and lead. It also includes a built-in looper that allows for recording and playback so you’re able to build above beats and record a whole song. Because of its small size, built-in speaker, cordless feature and MIDI capabilities via Bluetooth, making music on the go has never been this simple.

Not only is this device for music fans, but it can also be an educational tool for kids and students. Individuals are able to still pledge for the project at an early bird cost of US$199 which includes 1 Chorda.

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They’ve also included a package which is US$359 that allows you to ‘Give One, Get One’ — the additional Chorda will be donated to one of their partners in youth programs, music therapy and music cognition research.

Last year, we included the Orba device from Artiphon in our Christmas gifts list and it’s most likely we’ll add the Chorda to this year’s one.

To learn more about Chorda and to back their Kickstarter, click here.

Miki Kitasako is Mixmag Asia’s Social Media and Content Producer, follow her on LinkedIn.