The Gamechanger Audio Motor Synth MkII represents a revolutionary approach to sound synthesis, utilizing eight custom-built brushless DC motors as oscillators to create a truly unique sonic experience. This innovative instrument builds upon centuries of rotating disc audio generation technology, from Robert Hooke's 1681 toothed wheel device to modern implementations, but achieves unprecedented precision and portability through high-speed, precisely controlled motors.

The synthesis engine primarily employs optical technology to generate waveforms. Each motor features specially designed optical discs with three reflective "tracks" engraved onto their surfaces, representing sine, saw, and square waveforms as circular optical patterns. Infrared lasers paired with sensors read the reflected light as the discs rotate, producing what Gamechanger calls "Optical Waveforms." Additionally, electromagnetic pickups positioned near each motor's rotating coils generate a unique "M" waveform through electromagnetic fluctuations.

The MkII iteration introduces significant enhancements over its predecessor, most notably the addition of a third Digital Voice (DCO) featuring a proprietary virtual-analog oscillator with noise engine, waveshaping capabilities, and dedicated multimode digital filter. This complements the two fully independent Motor Voices, each equipped with separate amplitude envelopes, pitch envelopes, and analog multimode filters.

The instrument's character is defined by what the manufacturer describes as "inherent imperfections in the mechanical system," which contribute to its distinctive analog sound. The waveforms produced are notably different from traditional synthesizers - the sine wave appears triangular, the square wave is rounded with sloped edges, and the saw wave is the most accurate representation. Despite these irregularities, the oscillator pitches remain remarkably precise and stable.

Performance features include an innovative "clutch" function that allows temporary parameter editing, an eight-button keypad for note input and step sequencing, and comprehensive modulation capabilities. The built-in sequencer offers advanced features like glide, ratcheting, probability controls, and step repetition, while the "motion record" feature can capture and playback knob movements at different speeds and directions.

The unit also functions as a powerful signal processor, featuring a surprisingly effective vocoder, envelope follower for ducking effects, and comprehensive CV/trigger integration for modular synthesis setups. With its weatherproof steel casing, anodized components, and meticulous attention to detail, the Motor Synth MkII represents both a functional instrument and a work of industrial art.

Technical Specifications

Unique Features

• Optical Waveform Technology: Proprietary circular optical waveform generation
• Electromagnetic Pickup: Additional waveform generation via motor coil fluctuations
• Mechanical Pitch Envelope: Acceleration and Brake controls for motor response
• Visual Feedback: Strobe effect from disc patterns creates pleasing visual feedback
• Inherent Character: Mechanical imperfections contribute to unique analog sound character
• Noise Levels:
  • 76.5dB @ 100mm from rear
  • 72.5dB @ 100mm above top
  • 80.0dB @ 100mm from right side (fan area)

Oscillator Engine

• Motor System: 8 custom-built brushless DC motors
• Motor Voices: 2 fully independent motor voices
• Digital Voice: 1 DCO (Digital Controlled Oscillator) with virtual-analog engine
• Polyphony: 4-note polyphony (2 motor voices + DCO with adjustable 4-note polyphony)
• Waveforms (Motor): Sine, Saw, Square, M (electromagnetic)
• Waveform Generation: Optical disc technology with infrared lasers and sensors
• Pitch Stability: Extremely precise and stable motor speed control
• Pitch Response: Fast response with characteristic subtle glide between notes

Voice Architecture

• VCAs: Polyphonic
• Envelope Generators: Polyphonic
• Filters: Paraphonic (re-triggers for all notes within each voice)
• Motor Voice Filters: Analog multimode filters (2x)
• DCO Filter: Digital multimode filter with extensive functionality

Envelopes

• Types: ADSR, AD, AR, DADSR, ADSHR, AD loop
• Control: Single encoder per envelope section
• Curve Adjustment: Very wide range of envelope curve shaping

Modulation System

• LFOs: 6 LFOs controlled by 3 knobs
• Modulation Destinations: 2 destination slots (A, B) assignable to any parameter
• MOD Shape: Selector with detailed editing menu and extensive wave-shaping options
• Clock Sources: Independently adjustable per modulator with subdivisions
• Additional Effects: Cross modulation between motor voices, Drift/Detune controls

Performance Interface

• Keypad: 8 non-velocity sensitive buttons for note input and sequencing
• Pitch Encoders: 4 rotary encoders for note editing and microtonal adjustments
• Clutch Function: Temporary parameter editing buffer
• Randomization: Up to 13 parameters with adjustable randomization amounts
• Sleep Switch: Motor sleep function (new for MkII)

Sequencer & Arpeggiator

• Step Sequencer: Built-in with illuminated button feedback
• Features: Glide, ratcheting, probability, step repetition
• Motion Record: Multi-channel recording of knob movements with variable playback speed and direction
• Arpeggiator: Built-in with trigger/clock input capability

Signal Processing

• Vocoder: High-quality with adjustable channel bandwidth and clear sibilance
• Envelope Follower: Adjustable parameters for ducking effects
• Input Processing: Multiple routing options for external signal processing
• CV Assignment: Modular-style parameter assignment for CV inputs

Display & Interface

• Screen: Relatively low-resolution with thoughtfully designed graphics
• Visual Cues: Clever visual navigation aids and real-time waveform display
• Controls: Push-button encoders (without indicator stripes) and standard rotary controls

Connectivity

• MIDI: In/Out ports
• USB: USB-B port
• CV Inputs: 3x mini-jack (-10V to +10V range with attenuation and inversion)
• Trigger Inputs: 3x mini-jack
• Send/Return: Mini-jack pair
• Audio: Input and Output
• Headphone: Dedicated output

Physical Specifications

• Construction: High-quality steel casing, weatherproof
• Weight: Pleasantly weighty construction
• Controls: Robust knobs and buttons with satisfying tactile response
• Visual Feedback: Two windows for viewing rotating motor discs
• Cooling: Internal fan system with side vent

Power & Environmental

• Power Supply: External 24V adapter
• Operating Environment: Enclosed weatherproof design
• Motor Load: Optimized for long-term operation with lightweight disc load