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LeafAudio - Microphonic Soundbox mk2

Product information "LeafAudio - Microphonic Soundbox mk2"

The Microphonic Soundbox is an instrument for experimental sound creation. It features a resonant wooden body equipped with contact microphones, battery-powered low-noise preamps and a variety of sound-generating surfaces, including springs, rods, textured panels and a kalimba. Use it standalone to create textures and samples or pair it with delay and loop-based effects for evolving soundscapes.

The Instrument features a range of playable surfaces and objects that allow the creation of unheard sounds and textures. The main components are:

• Two metal rods – you can excite them with a stick or similar to get bell-like sounds, or play them with a bow to create ethereal–metallic tones. Pitching recordings down reveals deep metallic drones.
• Three metal springs – pluck, pull or whip them to produce vintage reverb-like spring sounds.
• Sandpaper surface – scratch it with different objects and materials to create sounds ranging from soft whispering to harsh scraping noises.
• Kalimba with 5 strips – play harmonic melodies or use the freely tunable mechanism to explore microtonal tunings. Transposing these recordings down can create low bass patterns.

The Soundbox is designed to be modular, featuring M3 threaded strips that allow additional objects to be attached using thumb screws.

To pick up the vibrations created by the surfaces and objects, two contact microphones are built into the instrument. One is placed at the centre for the kalimba, rods, springs and sandpaper. The second is positioned at the side to capture sounds from attached objects.

The internal preamp is specially designed to amplify contact microphones, delivering low-noise amplification with precise detail – allowing you to boost even the smallest and quietest objects and turn them into cinematic, gigantic soundscape.
Two Channels, One Input, Two Outputs

The Microphonic Soundbox offers two independent amplifier channels and a 1/4″ input for external contact microphones, enabling extended routing options. The Microphonic Playground can serve as an extension as well to multiply your sonic possibilities.

Output 1 provides a mono mix of both channels. Using Output 2 alongside Output 1 splits the channels, allowing the Soundbox to be played on one output while the second one functions as an amplifier for an external contact microphone.
Expand the Soundbox with Add-ons for New Sonic Dimensions

The Microphonic Soundbox is designed for experimentation and for playing with different objects, materials and surfaces. You are free to use whatever you like to develop your own signature sounds. To help you get started, we’ve developed several Add-on Packs that create interesting sounds straight out of the box.

Features:
• Two channels with internal contact microphones
• Battery powered low noise pre-amps (~100x / ~40dB Gain)
• Two outputs: mixed mono or channels separated
• Channel one can act as pre-amp for external input
• Multifunctional holder, based on M3 threaded strips (left side & under Kalimba)
• Removable Kalimba
• Soundbox is a hub for external contact mics: use channel 1 as pre-amp on out 1 while play the actual Soundbox on out 2
• Output features an attenuator switch
• Power management switches the LED from blue to red when battery goes under 7 volt
• Soft grip rubber feet for acoustic decoupling
• Removable metal rods which come in a plastic tube which is great for transpor
Color / Material: Wood
DIY Level: NOT DIY
Depth [mm]: 160
Height [mm]: 100
Power Input Type (pri.): 9 Vdc / Battery (6LR61)
Width [mm]: 260
Manufacturer "LeafAudio"
LeafAudio is the brand of Manuel Richter. He is a trained drummer & audio engineer, studio- and live-musician, was interested in electronic and experimental sounds since his childhood. He made releases and lots of live appearances as Xabec. He toured with Haujobb and others, was producer & songwriter for Anne Clark. LeafAudio started as Manuel's studio in 2008, he made lots of mixings and masterings but quickly ended up doing one of the most well known DIY workshop series in Germany by the mid 2010s. Meanwhile LeafAudio is most well known for their Microphonic Soundboxes and other sound design instruments which became super popular worldwide. Most of the production is still made by hand in Leipzig, Germany.

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Legal Manufacturer Information (GPSR compliance)

Manufacturer / Hersteller:
Tech Creation Lab Leipzig UG (haftungsbeschränkt)
Selnecker str. 26
04277 Leipzig, Germany
support@exploding-shed.com
WEEE-Nr.: DE94097895


Product Safety Information

Please read this safety guide before installation or use.

Important Notice & Intended Use
• The product is intended as a desktop / standalone unit and is powered by an external DC power supply or battery.

General Warnings

Electrical Hazards:
• Make sure the power supply matches the voltage and current ratings specified for the device (see the product manual). Using the wrong voltage can damage the module and create a safety hazard.
• Wrong polarity can damage your device, make sure the unit is connected with correct polarity.

Heat Generation:
• The device or power supply may generate heat during operation. Do not cover one of them.

Sharp Edges:
• The device’s faceplate and components may have sharp edges. Handle with care to prevent cuts or scratches.

Small Parts:
• Contains small parts that could cause a choking hazard. Keep away from children and pets.

Compatibility:
• This module is intended for use only with devices operating at Eurorack or line level. Connecting it to incompatible systems may cause damage or malfunction.

Installation and Use
• Use only the included or manufacturer-recommended power cable and/or power supply.
• Follow the module's user guide for instructions on operation. Do not exceed the input/output limits specified.

Environmental Safety
• Dispose of the module, its components, and packaging in accordance with local electronic waste regulations.

Liability Disclaimer
• The manufacturer or distributor is not responsible for any injury, damage, or malfunction resulting from improper installation, use, or modification of this product.

Contact Information
For further information visit the manufacturers homepage or our shop support team at:
Tech Creation Lab Leipzig UG (haftungsbeschränkt)
Selneckerstr. 26, 04277 Leipzig, Germany
support@exploding-shed.com

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