Peter Blasser's approach to synthesis has always been about letting circuits behave like living systems, and the Srine is perhaps the most tactile expression of that philosophy—an oval wooden instrument that responds to gesture as much as intention.
The Srine operates as a self-organizing analog computer built around shift register circuits that generate pitch and envelope changes through two large recessed wooden knobs. Turning either knob introduces new voltage values into the circuit, creating stepped melodic movement that feels surprisingly musical despite its chaotic underpinnings. A central button energizes the system, which automatically powers down after a period of inactivity. The instrument outputs stereo audio via 3.5mm jacks and accepts external signals for processing, powered by either a 12V power supply or 9V battery.
What separates the Srine from conventional synthesizers is its patching environment. The banana jack patchpoints allow both cable and direct touch patching, inviting deeper exploration into how the internal circuits interact. In its unpatched state, you get evolving drones that shift character as you manipulate the knobs. Patch in some connections and the behavior becomes more unpredictable—the kind of push-and-pull between control and surprise that makes these instruments genuinely engaging to play over time. The wooden enclosure isn't just aesthetic; it's part of the design language that emphasizes tactile, almost pre-linguistic interaction with sound.
