To construct the instrument we made use of a 555 timer and an op-amp based synthesizer. It creates varying sound frequencies based on the resistance between its two probes. By exploiting the resistive properties of graphite in combination with conductive paint, we were able to place distinct points of electrical resistance around the disk.
Check out Resistive Record in the press:
A conceptual midi controller that simulates the haptics of scratching a record on a vinyl turntable
When you place your hand on a spinning record and pull the record back you hear a scratch. Combine this with precisely timed quick cuts in sound output and you get what DJs call "scratching". Its the "wicky-wicky" sound that's synonymous with hip hop. While most of the DJing world has moved past vinyl to digital alternatives, scratch DJ specialists are still using turntables from the 1970s. The major reason for this is the haptic feedback these old models provide. The way the record pulls on and slides beneath your fingers actually helps the DJ to manipulate the music in a more precise way.
Scratch-Function
This controller mimics the haptics provided by analog turntables by combining a motorized slider, like those found in mixing boards, with a capacitive touch sensitive control surface. When your finger makes contact with the surface, the DJ software receives a MIDI signal to pause the record. As you pull back, the audio of the track reverses and the motors in the slider apply resistance similar to that of a vinyl turntable.
Cut-Function
This secondary controller allows you to quickly cut the volume of the music in and out. It’s built using a hacked hard disk drive with the moving actuator arm acting as a volume slide. The adjustable electro magnets in the drive give you the ability to dial in just the right amount of resistance to make quick accurate cuts.
