Circuit Bending Tips? (SK-1 related)

Snagglepus

For my ladyfriend's upcoming birthday, I found an unplayed SK-1 on eBay that I'd like to pair with some wires/switches/etc to assemble a "My First Circuit Bending Kit". (She'll cherish it ... and, no, she doesn't lurk). Just wondering if anyone on here has circuit bent an SK-1 (or anything similar) and can share a bit about their approach. I understand the basics, but I'm curious about specifics especially in the area of equipment to purchase (gauge/type of wire, type of solder, etc).Any tips?Thanks.

ako

my friend has been circuit bending a few toys and i just gave him an old portasound to work with, basically hes just buying random components and seeing what happens. probably the best way to do it, its all about fun and creativity.

Snagglepus

its all about fun and creativity.

Yep ... that's the impetus behind the gift. She's an artist/musician who cherishes organs and keyboards. This will be a fun thing we can do together and, with any luck, she'll end up with a pretty unique instrument when all's said and done.

MoSS

I did up an SK1 and one of those speak and spell's a few years ago. I just used the cheapest wire I could find (I purchased a roll at Radio Shack). I found various manual's/instructions online and learned the basics by finding out what was common between all the guides, and really from there I just played around with it for a while. I don't think you should really concern yourself with the "parts" other then the cosmetics if you're worried about the appearance.

pjl2000xl

http://www.amazon.com/Circuit-Bending-Build-Alien-Instruments-ExtremeTech/dp/0764588877

and

http://www.anti-theory.com/soundart/circuitbend/cb01.html

Snagglepus

http://www.amazon.com/Circuit-Bending-Build-Alien-Instruments-ExtremeTech/dp/0764588877

and

http://www.anti-theory.com/soundart/circuitbend/cb01.html

Nice ... I've looked at a few sites but that Anti-theory guide looks ideal. I may actually grab up that book as it would round out the gift pretty well.

Thanks.

billbradley

I haven't done any circuit bending but my friend Phillip in Houston is into it. He might be able to give you some useful info.

Here is his music side project: http://sk1project.com and http://www.myspace.com/sk1project