LOOKMUMNOCOMPUTER’s Tape Delay Extravaganza

It’s like entering a mad scientist’s lair; LOOKMUMNOCOMPUTER kicks things off by introducing his latest wild experiment. He’s spent months piecing together what can only be described as a contraption made with a big plastic disc and a horde of tape heads. This isn’t just some casual DIY project—it’s a bold venture into creating a tape delay system that would make even the most hard-nosed engineer scratch their head in disbelief. The excitement is palpable as he lays out the plan to craft a device reminiscent of the legendary Binson Echorec, but with a look and guts that are entirely its own. The project has been a laborious off-and-on affair, but the ambition is ambitious enough to warrant patience.

As LOOKMUMNOCOMPUTER richly details in over 20 minutes, building and innovating this tape delay goes beyond mere mechanics—it’s part ingenuity, part heart. The addition of a gearbox to the stepper motor represents a pivotal moment; the concept of torque emerges with the necessity of almost effortless spinning. Bringing in advice from outside sources underscores his dedication to perfecting the project.

Moreover, he describes the use of a new engagement mechanism, illustrating the collaborative spirit inherent in DIY culture. Here, the tape delay becomes less an object of electronic parts and more an expression of auditory art, where every change, every new gear is like adding a verse to a punk anthem. The reconfiguration of parts—the new motor gearbox, the debate over spacing—is akin to revising a song until it’s just right. This labour of love mirrors the flourish of a live gig, where unpredictability and creativity merge, creating something new every time.

Throughout, LOOKMUMNOCOMPUTER is relentless, pushing boundaries and challenging norms, much like the DIY artists in the heady days of punk. There’s acknowledgment of problem-solving through community wisdom, such as tips from friends, which speaks to the heart of electronic music creation—sharing expertise to propel art forward. In each gear tweak and realignment is the resonance of hands-on fervour that DIY enthusiasts will find deeply relatable.

The session rounds out with a flourish of sound demos, subtly guiding us through the aural capabilities of this contraption. LOOKMUMNOCOMPUTER isn’t just showing; he’s immersing. The additional tape heads mean more layers, and each output is meticulously adjusted to create a tapestry of rhythmic loops and haunting echoes. As if conducting an orchestra of tape, the real-time responses thrill with the kind of authenticity that calculated machines can only dream of achieving.

In the playful chaos, this recording tool teeters on the edge of control, proving its mettle as an experimental instrument. The setup morphs into a self-generating wonder, where every loop holds potential for discovery—it’s a symphony of ingenuity and chance. Demonstrated with gusto, he positions each head and output to bring forth an effect that might be misconstrued as chaos, but in reality, it’s calculated artistry. The experiment isn’t just undertaken by LOOKMUMNOCOMPUTER; it’s experienced by anyone daring enough to listen.

Leaning into future visions, he hints at further modifications, more tape heads, enhanced structures, and suggests the ultimate goal: to showcase this beauty in his museum. There’s a delightful sense of the journey not yet finished. The video is left lingering with the promise of more to come, aligning with his evident passion for continuous exploration. LOOKMUMNOCOMPUTER’s adventure is thus far a love letter to the experimental spirit and an open invitation to join in the sonic investigation.