Strata Glow - Modular, LED-lit, 3D-printed Violins
TBD
Strata Glow is the latest evolution of the 3D printed Modular Fiddle project. LED strips embedded into annealed 3D printed parts are controlled by WLED running on an ESP32 microcontroller. This setup offers ease-of-use and good functionality, but limits the possibilities for lighting programs and options. A future version with custom electronics is under consideration — come talk with me about it!
The Modular Fiddle project began in 2018 with a simple 4-string 3D printed modular violin. Over the last 7 years, the project has expanded to a variety of bowed string instruments, including baroque gambas, electric violins and violas, and now the best LED-lit violins on the market.
After countless iterations seeking to create the best acoustics possible for a plastic violin — electric Strata Violins offer a uniquely rich amplified tone that is highly praised by electric violinists. Many players buy a Strata for the unique aesthetic only to find that it becomes their go-to instrument thanks to the exceptional sound quality.
The basic 4-string violin design will always be free and open-source. The design files are available in a variety of file formats to allow anyone to modify and use the design for any purpose (including commercial purposes). All existing variations (5-string, LED-lit, etc) are available to Patreon supporters that help keep the Modular Fiddle project alive and improving.
This foundation of the open-source Modular Fiddle project has created an active and diverse community of makers from around the world. Some folks are working on new pickups (for electric instruments) while others are adapting my work to improve traditional Indian instruments. Instead of focusing on licensing agreements, I have focused on community norms and expectations, with great success!