Niisoo meets the SK-1.

Niisoo meets the SK-1

Today we are exploring the grainy and lo-fi world of the Casio SK-1 but we will be using Niisoo to inject some serious analog filtering capabilities to shift and shape our humble toy keyboard into something spectacular. Let’s go!

0:00 - 1:40 Tones and drones.

In this first example we’ve tucked a couple picks into the keys of the SK-1 to create a continuous drone effect. Next, we use Niisoo’s lower and upper bound controls to dial in the two frequency points we want to shift between and add the time control to set how long that shift will take. With the time control set around noon, the shift will take roughly two seconds. This creates a dramatic tonal change as Niisoo moves between the selected frequency points. Lastly, we add some live playing over our drones while simultaneously working Niisoo’s shift control to create a morphing soundscape.

1:41 - 2:46 Filtered beats.

In the next section, we’ll explore Niisoo’s low pass and band pass modes to liven up the stock SK-1 drum sounds. Niisoo’s powerful filtering capabilities make it easy to fine tune the tonal quality of the drums. First, we’ll try out low pass mode using the momentary shift functionality. Low pass mode will give us a muted, bass-heavy sound on the low bound and a smooth and warm sound on the high bound. Next, we’ll try the band pass mode and set the shift control to latching. In band pass mode you’ll get a noticeably brighter sound on the lower and upper bound with a lot more mid frequency content.

2:47 - 3:59 Movement that blooms.

Next, we’ll use Niisoo to add some movement to a simple chord progression. In this example Niisoo takes on a phaser type quality as we shift between our selected frequency points. This is a good example of how Niisoo can add an unpredictable human element to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary.

4:00 - 4:46 Lo-Fi loop.

Lastly, let’s add Niisoo to a gritty lo-fi loop using both low pass and band pass modes. The slow frequency shifts really bring out the granular nature of the SK-1, highlighting its best attributes, while adding flexibility and range. We can cut excessive high frequencies, tame unruly lows, add mids where they were lacking, and shift between those extremes to create dramatically new sounds!

Let’s make some noise!

Now that we’ve explored the possible, let’s go and create the impossible.