Artiphon, a distinguished creator of specialty music devices, has returned with a unique musical gadget called the Chorda. This innovative device merges the design of the Instrument 1 with the self-contained functionality and looper of the Orba 2, offering a comprehensive, all-in-one musical tool. The Chorda expands on the multi-instrument technology of its predecessor, granting users access to a broad selection of instruments, ranging from guitars to drums and pianos.
While the Instrument 1 required a phone or tablet connection, the Chorda boasts an autonomous design, making it an enticing addition to the rapidly expanding market of standalone recording equipment. It comes with numerous pre-installed sounds and related control methods that mimic the experience of playing their physical counterparts. The device employs micro-gestures that include a diverse range of control parameters and operates through 12 pads that each respond to a variety of control techniques such as tapping, tilting, strumming, vibrato, and more, facilitated by capacitive sensing technology and Midi Polyphonic Expression (MPE).
The Chorda also introduces a bridge section designed for novice musicians, enabling automatic chord playing to accompany their favorite songs. This bridge seamlessly interacts with the built-in arpeggiator, allowing for tempo and key modifications. The incorporated looper offers flexibility in layering tracks as desired. While the device itself doesn’t have extensive sound design capabilities, an associated app provides access to the device’s sound engine.
In terms of connectivity, the Chorda can interact with any MIDI-based software and hardware instruments via USB-C or Bluetooth. It also automatically syncs with most Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs), including but not limited to GarageBand, Ableton, Logic, Pro Tools, Cubase, and FL Studio. It also accommodates any standard MIDI and MPE-compatible mobile app or hardware. However, the device’s battery life could be improved, as it only lasts for four hours per charge.
The Artiphon Chorda is currently up for preorder on Kickstarter and comes in three color options: black, white, and blue. The early bird pricing is roughly $200, but prices will increase as inventory depletes. The devices are set to ship in November.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Artiphon Chorda
What is the Artiphon Chorda?
The Artiphon Chorda is a unique, standalone musical gadget that merges the design of the Instrument 1 with the self-contained functionality and looper of the Orba 2. It provides access to a broad selection of instruments and boasts numerous pre-installed sounds and related control methods.
What are the unique features of the Chorda?
The Chorda has a variety of unique features. It has an autonomous design that doesn’t require a phone or tablet connection. It also comes with a bridge section that enables novice musicians to play chords automatically. The built-in arpeggiator allows for tempo and key modifications, and the integrated looper offers flexibility in layering tracks.
How does the Artiphon Chorda connect to other devices?
The Chorda can interact with any MIDI-based software and hardware instruments via USB-C or Bluetooth. It also automatically syncs with most Digital Audio Workstations, including GarageBand, Ableton, Logic, Pro Tools, Cubase, and FL Studio.
Can you alter the sound design on the Chorda?
While the Chorda itself doesn’t offer extensive sound design capabilities, users can access the device’s sound engine through an associated app.
How can I purchase the Artiphon Chorda?
The Artiphon Chorda is currently available for preorder on Kickstarter. It comes in three color options: black, white, and blue. The early bird pricing starts at around $200.
When will the Artiphon Chorda ship?
The Chorda is set to ship in November.
What is the battery life of the Artiphon Chorda?
The device’s battery life lasts for approximately four hours per charge.
More about Artiphon Chorda
- Artiphon Official Website
- Chorda on Kickstarter
- Introduction to MIDI Technology
- Understanding Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs)
- Guide to MIDI Polyphonic Expression (MPE)
6 comments
standalone functionality, built-in sounds, arpeggiator and looper? This is a sweet deal for any music producer out there.
200 bucks for a portable multi-instrument? count me in! but gotta say, the 4 hours battery life is a bit of a bummer…
I’m really interested in that MIDI connectivity. Just hope it works smoothly with my DAW. fingers crossed!
Kickstarter here I come! black, white, or blue though? decisions, decisions…
Awesome! the chord playing feature might finally help me make some decent music, lol.
Whoa, Artiphon’s at it again! Chorda sounds sick, cant wait to get my hands on one. Hope the battery life is better in next versions tho.