SoundSniffer preamplifier

The SoundSniffer was designed by me as a low cost utility that would allow me to quickly prototype interactive art installations and make musical instruments using the following sensors: coil pickups, contact mics and electret mics. While there are many preamps on the market none cater specifically to these devices. Coils are useful for picking up moving strings (eg electric guitar), as well as electromagnetic interference as given off by electronic equipment. Contact mics pick up vibration and as such are useful for instrument builders, sound designers and live performers wishing to amplify a wide variety of materials and objects that may not always be considered musical! Electret condensor microphones work like standard mics found on phones or for music recording.

The kit includes a circuit board and all the parts needed. A laser cut box completes the unit - it is sturdy and easy to assemble without glue.

The device has been purchased by people all over the world, mostly working as sound designers and field recordists. I use this every day in my design studio to quickly test out how instruments sound, and have used it in educational settings as a way of bringing sound into interaction design projects.