Visco

Orbit is based on Visco, a plugin for DAWs such as Ableton Live. With Visco, users can play with sound characteristics like time stretching, tuning, and control software-unique parameters such as contrast, density. A 3D bubble on the display enables users to deform the sound on an x-y axis canvas. The plugin can also morph between two sounds in one sound bank to create a new mixed sound, for example, a mix of a dog bark and a synth sound.

Visco is meant to be used as a multichannel drum machine. We chose the most important parameters for flexible sound design and reduced the workflow to one sound bank to focus on the capabilities of two morphed sounds.

Process

Before we started the production, we had a general research on audio interface to gain basic knowledge of audio interfaces. We also tested Visco plugin ourselves, which was necessary to proceed to user interviews.

User Research

Interviews

As a user research, we reached out to 8 music makers across Europe and conducted an online interview. The interviews were essential to understand the habits of the users and get an overview of sound production. Interviewers ranged from beginners to experts, with 4 mid-to-low-level users, 3 high-level users and one visual designer. They were also provided an opportunity to use Visco, and we received the feedbacks during the interview.

Through the interviews, we identified and cataloged the issues with the Visco interface, prioritizing which ones are most and least important for future redesign. We also explored how interviewers envisioned the future physical product. The majority of respondents indicated that they would use Visco primarily during the initial production phase and later in live performances, with one respondent stating they would use it exclusively in live settings but with a more limited interface.

Additionally, feedback suggested that the graphic representation of the sound could be improved for better clarity in color and shape, to enhance identification and understanding during initial use.

Target Users

After the interviews, we defined our target users as follows:

The user, described as a versatile electronic music producer, desires a dedicated knob for each function, preferring to perform in the studio to achieve more humanized sounds rather than programming and designing them in the DAW. They are interested in delving into sound design rather than working with multiple tracks, and they favor a workflow that combines both studio and live performance. Many artists, in fact, prefer to perform their synths live rather than programming and designing them in the DAW.

Production and Prototypes

After defining the product requirements, we proceeded to the development, where we shaped the first of many concepts.

During this stage, we developed an initial prototype of the knobs, which were originally connected to the center in a radial arrangement. We tested by 3D-printing the actual pieces. Through the trials, the design evolved that allow users to connect the knobs more freely. The development continued with testing the knobs on real components to design the most effective coverage.

As for the interface, we progressively simplified it compared to the initial concepts, where the physical and digital interfaces were identical. This process led us to define the key features to focus on for the final product.

Features

One of the main features of our product is the custom-made knobs with the gears. The gears are connected with elastic bands and can be mounted up to 3 knobs. The gears are designed with three different circumferences: the second is twice the size of the first, and the third is three times the size. By connecting or crossing the elastic bands, you can achieve different speeds or even reverse movements. The visual impact of the knobs also makes the product stand out. Each of the gear layers is 3D printed with vivid colors, giving a playful and creative impression.

UI

The placement of the knobs was directed by the capability of a rubber band. It needed to be able to comfortably attach the bands and also maximize the options of possible connections.

We designed a minimalistic UI with a custom font, and the lines are meant to create structure and to underline the impact of the time parameter. + logos for visualizing parameters

The fader is on the left bottom side to allow the left hand to easily work the morph fader on Visco while using the right hand to turn other knobs.

Product Components and Sustainability

Product Components

The product is designed to be versatile and portable, with a distinctive aesthetic and a strong visual impact. To optimize costs, standard components are widely used, while custom parts are produced using low-cost, limited-batch techniques such as 3D printing and laser cutting. Given the relatively small number of potential users, these production decisions were necessary to keep costs manageable.

An internal PLA shell was chosen to store all the electronic components and secure the knobs through a metal plate, on which the interface will be engraved.

Regarding materials and finishing touch, the goal was to achieve a clear aesthetic with metallic characteristics.

Sustainability

To enhance the sustainability of the product, we opted to use recycled materials for each component and designed the entire product to be disassembled easily. Each part can be replaced and reprinted for new use, promoting a more sustainable lifecycle.

Final Product

Demo Video

Reflection

We know the product isn’t perfect, and unfortunately, we didn’t have the chance to conduct extensive testing with real users before Werkshau. However, during the event, we saw how enthusiastic users quickly understood how the product works and experimented with creative and original combinations, having a lot of fun.

For future improvements, we have several modifications in mind, such as developing a case to store the components(knobs and elastics), further engineering the cables, improving the electronics and securing some components, and testing the product in a studio setting or during a live performance.

Conclusion

This project required a comprehensive design knowledge as well as knowledge of music making. It could have not been achieved without teammates. We struggled with numerous technical difficulties which we had to compromise ourselves during the process. Time management was also challenging, since our team had 4 people and each one of us had their course projects and schedule.
Despite all the challenges, we are satisfied with the outcome. It was exciting to see the product take shape through all the development stages, leading up to the final event. During the event, it was especially rewarding to watch people of all ages play, experimenting to find their perfect combination with the elastics, and seeing their enthusiasm. At that moment, we truly realized that the product not only works but is also fun and tangible.
We cannot thank enough for Angelica, who has been supporting and guiding us across the production.