Synthroteck ATARI JUNK CONSOLE

ATARI JUNK CONSOLE High Quality Sound Sample Lofi Synth Kit by Synthrotek.com

YouTube Published on May 9, 2012 by synthrotek

http://www.synthrotek.com

"Originally designed by DIY electronics guru Forrest Mims III as the "Stepped Tone Generator", the Atari Punk Console is one of the most famous and recognizable Lo-Fi synth circuits ever. Using a single 556 dual timer IC with minimal part count, the Atari Punk Console circuit is a solid, time-tested noise generator capable of outrageous square wave madness!

Features:

Low part count = easy build for beginners!
Dual power supplies: use a 9V battery or save money on batteries with an AC Adapter rated at 5-12V 200mA Center Positive polarity. DC Jack allows for power switching so that battery power is only enabled when there is no AC Adapter plugged in.
Control Voltage (CV) input allows step sequencers and waveform generators to expand the sonic capabilities of the Atari Punk Console from drone to arpeggio-like dynamism. Use any variable voltage source from 0-Supply Voltage for some glitchy goodness!
3 potentiometer controls - Pulse Width and Frequency contour the tone while the Volume control sets your output just right.
The Atari Punk Console PCB is designed here at Synthrotek and manufactured to high-quality specs by our friends at Imagineering here in the USA! Silkscreen layer helps you place components onto the Atari Punk Console PCB with minimal effort.

The Atari Punk Console Bare-Bones Kit includes everything that you'll need to build your very own APC !

Check out the Assembly Instructions for detailed instructions, troubleshooting, and ways to mod your circuit in amazing ways! For a list of parts, go to the Atari Punk Console BOM"

Synthmonger Atari Punk Console Lo-Fi Eurorack Synth Module

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this auction - learn how to sell on eBay here
Perfect Circuit Audio (RSS)

"Originally designed by DIY electronics guru Forrest Mims III as the "Stepped Tone Generator," the Atari Punk Console is one of the most famous and recognizable Lo-Fi synth circuits ever. Using a single 556 dual timer IC with minimal part count, the Atari Punk Console circuit is a solid, time-tested noise generator capable of outrageous Square wave madness!

The Atari Punk Console PCB is designed at Synthrotek and manufactured to high-quality specs in the USA!

Features

Use a 9V battery or an AC Adapter rated at 5-12V 200mA Center Negative polarity (adapter not included).
DC Jack allows for power switching so that battery power is only enabled when there is no AC Adapter plugged in.
CV input allows step sequencers and waveform generators to expand the sonic capabilities of the Atari Punk Console from drone to arpeggio-like dynamism.
Use any variable voltage source from 0-Supply Voltage for some glitchy goodness!
3 potentiometer controls Pulse, Width, and Frequency contour the tone while the Volume control sets your output just right.
The two-way switch powers the unit on or off.
Uses 1/4" instrument jacks."

RIP Hans R. Camenzind - Creator of the 555 Timer IC

via Designing Analog chips

"Hans Camenzind was born and raised in Switzerland and moved to the U.S. after college. He received an MSEE from Northeastern University and an MBA from the University of Santa Clara. After several years doing research in the Boston area, he moved to the West Coast to join Signetics (now Philips) and later started his own company, Interdesign. After heading it for seven years he sold Interdesign to Plessey. Since then he has been an independent design consultant in analog IC design, operating under the name Array Design in San Francisco. During his career at four different companies he designed the first integrated class D amplifier, introduced the phase-locked loop concept to ICs, invented the semicustom IC and created the 555 timer. He has designed 151 standard and custom ICs so far."

via Wikipedia: "Hans R. Camenzind (1934-2012[1]) is an electronics engineer best known for inventing the 555 timer IC in 1970.[2] He has also acquired 20 US patents,[3][4] written numerous books and technical articles,[5][6][7][8] and lectured at the University of Santa Clara.

He received an MSEE from Northeastern University and an MBA from the University of Santa Clara. After several years doing research in the Boston area, he moved to the West Coast to join Signetics[9] (acquired by Philips Semiconductors, now NXP Semiconductors) and later started his own company, Interdesign. After heading it for seven years he sold Interdesign to Ferranti. Since then he has been an independent design consultant in analog IC design.

During his career he has written three textbooks, designed the first integrated class D amplifier, introduced the phase-locked loop concept to ICs, invented the semicustom IC and created the 555 timer. He has designed 140 standard and custom ICs as of 2006.

Camenzind's latest book, Much Ado About Almost Nothing, a general audience book on the history of electronics, was published in February 2007.[10] Other books in publication include Designing Analog Chips."

The Atari Punk Console by Forrest M. Mims III consisted of two 555s. Via wikipedia: "The Atari Punk Console (commonly shortened to APC) is a popular circuit that utilizes two 555 timer ICs or a single 556 dual timer IC. The original circuit, called a "Stepped Tone Generator", was published in a Radio Shack booklet: "Engineer's Notebook: Integrated Circuit Applications" in 1980 and then in "Engineer's Mini-Notebook - 555 Circuits" by its designer, Forrest M. Mims III (Siliconcepts, 1984). It was named "Atari Punk Console" (APC) by Kaustic Machines crew because its "low-fi" sounds resemble classic Atari console games from the 1980s, with a square wave output similar to the Atari 2600. Kaustic Machines added a -4db line level output to the circuit which was originally designed to drive a small 8 ohm speaker."

via this auction
YouTube Uploaded by makemagazine on Sep 13, 2011

http://bit.ly/prZRJ1 "A true classic for DIY synth makers & circuit benders, the Atari Punk Console can kick out some ear-catching square waves. It's easy to build and a lot of fun to play around with. It may be challenging to make traditional music with an APC, but hey - there's enough of that around already, right?" via Create Digital Music where you'll find a good write-up by Peter Kirn.

Dr. Blankenstein ATARI PUNK CONSOLE DELUXE V2.0 - Only 3 Left!

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
I didn't realize these were all about gone.
SN 114 pictured.

via this auction

"ATARI PUNK CONSOLE DELUXE V2.0
with 2 Movement / Light Sensors, 6 Body Contacts,
Special Diode Circuit, Stutter Switch & CV INPUT !

LAST BATCH EVER!
(3 left till they are all gone!)

"DESCRIPTION: All great things must come to an end. This is 1 of the last 3 Dr. Blankenstein APC's that will ever be made... period. Last batch, it's time to move on to other wonderful projects. After 3 Years, 300 pieces (one of which went to the great Forrest Mims himself)... what else can really be done? :)
If you don't know, you are looking at a Dr. Blankenstein's Limited Edition Atari Punk Console Deluxe v2.0. Pretty much a super Atari stylized APC with a TON of tricked out features. There are two photo Theremin style motion / light sensors to control the sound, as well as a control switches to use a classic APC knob setup. Each light sensor can be turned on and off independently.

To add even more weird control to this sucker I have added SIX BODY contacts that allow for some pretty cool sound manipulation (see video below). Two of the body contacts are running through a specially designed Diode circuit that you will ONLY find on Dr. Blankenstein's APC Deluxe V2.0.

There is also a 1/8" Control Voltage (C.V.) Input so that it can be sequenced with an analog sequencer / modular synth setup or even modulate the sound by connecting a piezo trigger to it... fun stuff! :)

Another exciting addition to version v2 is the On / Off Momentary switch on the top of the piece, this allows the player to rhythmically stutter in the sound in! Of course there is still the standard On / Off power switch by the Atari logo as well. The side knob controls the master volume, and their is a 1/4" output jack on the back of the unit.

All in all... this is one of the nicest built, most feature stocked, MOST PLAYABLE VERSION OF THE ATARI PUNK CONSOLE out there today. But don't take my word for it... take a look at the demo video below. Point is, this is NOT your grandmothers APC! :)

FEATURES:

- 1 OF THE LAST 3 EVER MADE!
- 2 Motion / Light Sensitive Theremin like top mounted sensors
- 2 Light sensor On / Off Switches
- 2 Square Wave Synth Control Knobs
- Momentary Stutter ON/OFF switch
- Standard ON/OFF switch
- Cool Color Changing / Randomly changing how it flashes mounted power LED
- 1/8" Control Voltage Sequencer / Piezo Input
- 6 Body Contact points for pitch change and other glitch effects
- 1/4" Mono Output Jack
- Volume Control knob
- 9V Battery Powered
- Quality / Professional build
- Classic ATARI 2600 Graphics
- Limited Edition Numbered Piece!"

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Atari Punk Console "APC 2600" - Circuit Bent Analog Synth

Atari Punk Console "APC 2600" - Circuit Bent Analog Synth w/ Theremin Control !!

Published on Dec 13, 2012 by DoctorBlankenstein

Dr. Blankenstein's Website: http://www.drBlankenstein.com

This piece and others like it are for sale on eBay:
[Dr. Blankenstein on eBay (RSS)]

Atari Punk Console Deluxe v2.0... Pretty much a super Atari stylized APC with a TON of tricked out features. There are two photo Theremin style motion / light sensors to control the sound, as well as a control switches to use a classic APC knob setup. Each light sensor can be turned on and off independently.

To add even more weird control to this sucker I have added SIX BODY contacts that allow for some pretty cool sound manipulation (see video below). Two of the body contacts are running through a specially designed Germanium Diode circuit that you will ONLY find on Dr. Blankenstein's APC Deluxe V2.0.

There is also a 1/8" Control Voltage (C.V.) Input so that it can be sequenced with an analog sequencer / modular synth setup or even modulate the sound by connecting a piezo trigger to it... fun stuff! :)

Another exciting addition to version v2 is the On / Off Momentary switch on the top of the piece, this allows the player to rhythmically stutter in the sound in! Of course there is still the standard On / Off power switch by the Atari logo as well. The side knob controls the master volume, and their is a 1/4" output jack on the back of the unit.

All in all... this is one of the nicest built, most feature stocked, MOST PLAYABLE VERSION OF THE ATARI PUNK CONSOLE out there today. But don't take my word for it... watch the video. Point is, this is NOT your grandmothers APC! :)

- 2 Motion / Light Sensitive Theremin like top mounted sensors
- 2 Light sensor On / Off Switches
- 2 Square Wave Synth Control Knobs
- Momentary Stutter ON/OFF switch
- Standard ON/OFF switch
- Cool Color Changing / Randomly changing how it flashes mounted power LED
- 1/8" Control Voltage Sequencer / Piezo Input
- 6 Body Contact points for pitch change and other glitch effects
- 1/4" Mono Output Jack
- Volume Control knob
- 9V Battery Powered
- Original PCB Design / Etching
- Quality / Professional build
- Classic ATARI 2600 Graphics
- Limited Edition Numbered Piece!"

Dr. Blankenstein Atari Punk Consoles in Classic Atari Styles

Dr. Blankenstein demos the Atari Punk Console (APC) / Module DELUXE!


Atari Punk Console Deluxe 1.5

Published on Aug 22, 2012 by DoctorBlankenstein

via this auction and this auction.
Space invaders pics below.

DESCRIPTION: Up for auction is Dr. Blankenstein's Atari Punk Console Deluxe v1.0 "Atari 2600". Pretty much a super Atari stylized APC with a bunch of tricked out features. There is a photo theremin style motion / light sensors to control the sound, as well as a control switch to use a classic APC knob setup.

To add even more weird control to this sucker I have added FIVE BODY contacts that allow for some pretty cool sound manipulation (see video below). The middle one is connected to a low voltage germanium diode distortion circuit, this is a mod I haven't seen on many other Atari Punk Consoles.

There is also a 1/8" Control Voltage (C.V.) Input so that it can be sequenced with an analog sequencer or even modulate the sound by connecting a piezo trigger to it... fun stuff!

The case is build of strong, built to last ABS plastic. The graphics were taken from the Atari 2600, stylized to make the box look almost like a mini game unit. People seem to really dig the faux wood sides, I would have to agree. ;)

Make sure to check out the video and pictures bellow...


FEATURES:

- 1 Motion / Light Sensitive Theremin like top mounted sensor
- 2 Square Wave Synth Control Knobs
- Standard ON/OFF switch
- Cool Color Changing / Randomly changing how it flashes mounted power LED
- 1/8" Control Voltage (CV) Sequencer / Piezo Input
- 5 Body Contact points for pitch change, distortion and other glitch effects
- 1/4" Mono Output Jack
- 9V Battery Powered
- Quality / Professional build
- Classic ATARI 2600 Graphics
- One of a Kind numbered piece!"

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Atari Punk Console

via this auction


YouTube Uploaded by FrankenMusik on Jul 12, 2011

"Atari Punk Console (APC) with a classic Atari feel."

"By FrankenMusik

Atari Punk Console Blinky Version

2 frequency Controls
On/Off Switch
1/8" Audio output jack
2.1mm input voltage jack (7 to 9VDC, 200mA, positive tip)

Hand made analog synth based on the Atari Punk Console circuit. Provided in this unique Blinky tin enclosure."

THE CIRCLE SYNTH OF DOOM, The Atari Atari Atari Punk Punk Punk Console Console Console

LOOK MUM NO COMPUTER

"These Songs Are Obsolete Atari Atari Atari Punk Punk Punk Console Console Console info available here :- https://linktr.ee/lookmumnocomputer
project page :- https://www.lookmumnocomputer.com/pro..."

Building the Atari Punk Console

Building the Atari Punk Console from Sparkle Labs on Vimeo.

This one actually via Gizmodo - cool to see some Synth DIY make it there.

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Atari Punk Pedal modification of the Atari Punk Console - GetLoFi

YouTube via circuitmaster
"In order to appease the stomp box market, here is a version of the Atari Punk Console in a Pedal case with True bypass switching and Frequency control using the Guitar's Volume knob. The guitar is basically used as a remote potentiometer for the APC circuit. WARNING! This Pedal will not work with Active Preamp Guitars, or in the middle of a pedal chain. However it has guitar control, active circuit volume reduction, and stomp switch pop elimination. Cruise over to GetLoFi.com to find out more!"

Atari Punk Pedal modification of the Atari Punk Console through Delay

This is Obsolete & The Atari Punk Console - VCS Tribute

YouTube Uploaded by thisisobsolete on Aug 18, 2011
via This is Obsolete - be sure to see the site for more.

"I am an artist and outsider engineer living in Brighton on the south coast of England. My work is inspired by vintage technology. It aims to celebrate the abandoned, the derelict and the obsolete."

Video description:
"From Forrest M. Mimm's 1980 publication "Engineer's Notebook: Integrated Circuit Applications" came the stepped tone generator - two 555 timer ICs are configured to create a single square (pulse) wave. Kaustic Machines coined the term Atari Punk Console to describe the circuit as it's output is similar to the sounds of the Atari VCS games console of the 1980s.

The work featured here is a DIY build of an Atari Punk Console inspired analogue synthesiser known as the Dub-Step-Arcade designed by Matt The Modulator (aka Matthew Newlove). As a tribute to it's origins in the dusty circuits of the 1980s the build is housed in a heavily modified Atari VCS enclosure.

Materials used include hand machined matte black acrylic control panel and Atari VCS enclosure, laser engraved gloss black acrylic fascia (RazorLAB), salvaged mains power supply, reconditioned stock Atari VCS DPDT switches, stock arcade machine parts and miscellaneous fixtures, fittings and electronic components."

SISMO ATARI PUNK CONSOLE - APC, Synthesizer - Pacman & Space Invaders Themes

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this auction

See the seller's other listings for additional designs.

"The Atari Punk Console is one of the most famous Lo-Fi synth circuits ever.
Sismo Atari Punk Console (APC) create an unique design imitating the video games classic Atari Console from the 1980s.

Features
- Square waves “low-fi” sound
- Low current design extends battery life
- Built in amplifier and speaker
- 2 potentiometer controls
Specifications
Power source: 9V Battery (Not included)
Weight: 300g
Dimensions: 8cm(H) x 5,5cm(D) x 9cm(W)"

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Circuit Bent Cigarettes

via this auction
Details:
"Atari Punk Console AKA Forrest Mims' Stepped Tone Generator.
What a fantastic stocking stuffer!
I built this atari punk console into a metal American Spirit cigarette pack. I tweaked the circuit for extra tasty bass. It fits nicely in the palm of your hand, with your thumb on the trigger. The lower knob is pitch, the upper controls the "steps" or "range". I added a 1/4 inch line out. I put a little speaker in the bottom so you can play it "on the go" (though it is small and fairly thin sounding). The LED at the end of his pipe is ultra bright. This video shows me playing it through a boomerang delay/looping pedal. Runs on 1 9 volt battery"

Circuit Bent Cigarettes - American Spirit Atari Punk
YouTube via 3rdness
"Wish I had more of these metal cigarette packs.
Atari Punk Console AKA Forrest Mims Stepped Tone Generator.
by 3rdness
http://www.mobiusband.com/blog
http://www.myspace.com/3rdness"

sismo-apc

sismo-apc from sismo on Vimeo.

"The Atari Punk Console is one of the most famous Lo-Fi synth circuits ever.
Sismo Atari Punk Console (APC) create an unique design imitating the video games classic Atari Console from the 1980s.
setup:
4 Sismo Atari Punk Console + Ableton Live for drum loops."

Synthrotek Atari Punk Console with Graphics Fully Assembled

YouTube Uploaded by synthrotek on May 18, 2011

"http://www.synthrotek.com
Our new APC packaging with sick punk graphics!!! check it our"

via this auction

"Synthrotek.com's Atari Punk Console APC. Forrest Mims designed this oscillator dubbed the Atari Punk Console years ago and it's great 8 bit chunky sounds have been sought after by the lofi / electronic crowd ever since. This Unit comes with a 1/8" CV (Control Voltage) input to interface with other synths, sequencers, and any CV Modular gear (Output on the left, CV on the right). Top of unit comes off to add your (hopefully rechargeable) 9V battery. We have models RIGHT NOW that take both 9V battery or a 9v 300-800mA Center Positive AC adapter, contact us to get more info for this option. All boards are professionally drilled and produced to offer maximize quality. Graphics are ballistic and can take years of use! These units just plain sound great as well, since we use high quality components. More info at synthrotek.com"

synthrotek on eBay (RSS)

Dr. Blankenstein's APC 2600 Atari Punk Console

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this auction

"The ultimate Atari Punk Console with all the bells and whistles... and one of the last built/sold! Serial # 186. LIKE NEW.

Free shipping in the continental US.

'Atari Punk Console Deluxe v2.0... Pretty much a super Atari stylized APC with a TON of tricked out features. There are two photo Theremin style motion / light sensors to control the sound, as well as a control switches to use a classic APC knob setup. Each light sensor can be turned on and off independently. To add even more weird control to this sucker I have added SIX BODY contacts that allow for some pretty cool sound manipulation (see video below). Two of the body contacts are running through a specially designed Germanium Diode circuit that you will ONLY find on Dr. Blankenstein's APC Deluxe V2.0.'"

CLICK FOR MORE »

Atari Punk Console - blue box by 3rdness - Circuit Bent!

YouTube via 3rdness
Note this is up for auction here.
Be sure to see the sellers other items including the Circuit Bent Cigarettes and other items featured here.
"Atari Punk Console AKA Forrest Mims' Stepped Tone Generator.

I built this atari punk console into a little blue plastic box I found by the side of the road, left on a damp table of junk left over from a rained out yard sale. Can anyone tell me what it is? I want more.

It fits nicely in the palm of your hand, with your thumb on the trigger. The lower knob is pitch, the upper controls the "steps" or "range". I added a 1/4 inch line out.

I put a little speaker on the top so you can play it "on the go", and the ultra bright LED pulsates in time, setting the whole box off.

http://www.mobiusband.com/blog
http://www.myspace.com/3rdness"

Atari Punk Console and Mini Moog and owyheesound sequencer

YouTube via nathanielscott
"Recently someone asked me if my DIY sequencer would work with an Atari punk Console.

I was so motivated that I worked out the design and then created my own Atari Punk Console with a Voltage control input. This video shows my APC being used with my own 8 step sequencer and a minimoog. There is a quick shot of one of the Printed Circuit Boards that I am developing for my latest sequencer design. The Reuseum in Garden City Idaho is sponsering much of my work which is why the Reuseums name appears on the PCB. The Reuseum will also make the PCBs and full kits available for sale for those who want them."

Vacuum Tube Atari Punk Console + MAY UPDATE

video upload by THIS MUSEUM IS (NOT) OBSOLETE

"​@Usagi Electric vacuum tube atari punk console! check his project out!
---------
WE ARE OPEN THIS WEEKEND information / contact:-
https://www.this-museum-is-not-obsole..."

Vacuum Tube Atari Punk Console Build Video Here

Vacuum Tube Atari Punk Console

video upload by Usagi Electric

"Happy New Year! To kick the new year off, we’re going to do something completely out of the norm – we’re building DIY synth stuff out of vacuum tubes! Well, maybe that’s not totally out of the norm, haha. The Atari Punk Console is one of the most quintessential circuits you can build when taking your first steps into the world of DIY synth stuff, so I figured why not make it out of vacuum tubes!"

Chapters
0:00 Intro
3:08 555 timer kit update
4:13 What I got wrong in this version
5:13 Testing the 555 timer kit
7:25 Two 555 timers = Atari Punk Console
10:46 Building a better APC
12:44 First tests
14:12 What I got wrong
15:04 The schematic
17:35 What if we try a different tube?
19:31 Testing even more tubes in it
21:31 Thoughts
23:17 Bunny!