The PlayStation Vita just got a new sampling groovebox and synth

Sony may have abandoned the PS Vita, but homebrew is ready to keep it alive. And the gorgeous handheld gaming console now gets a new identity as an all-in-one groovebox — with free, open-source software. It even supports multichannel audio over USB via a custom kernel plug-in. Meet DS-8 Drumstream, portable beatmaker.

Sinevibes Quarta: 10 FX, 4 zones on the pocket-sized NTS-3 kaoss pad

Korg’s NTS-3 is an absolute joy — a cute, pocket-sized, inexpensive kit that you can load up with custom effects. But that gets even more interesting once you add Sinevibes’ library of effects. And now you get one especially created for the X/Y pad. I’ve been testing a prerelease build, and this is a return to everything that I love about kaoss. And oops — here’s the perfect pocket live/DJ effect.

Peter Kirn - July 2, 2026

AudioWanderer noise maker is a glitchy, gorgeous, mysterious gem

You press a button to set it in motion, and from there, it’s anyone’s guess. The screen just makes glitchy patterns at you. The knobs and buttons do… something. Pressing the screen resets. But once it’s connected, the AW noise maker opens a wormhole to warped realms of sound.

Peter Kirn - June 10, 2026

Stylophone Voice, AA-powered sound-bending sampler + sequencer + FX

Peter Kirn - January 19, 2026

How to run Bitwig Studio on the Steam Deck gaming console

Peter Kirn - December 11, 2025

A little-known Nintendo DS piano peripheral meets homebrew sound

Peter Kirn - July 31, 2025

Bastl Instruments’ budget, handheld boxes are pure magic; new videos

Peter Kirn - May 12, 2025

KORG’s adorable Sanrio tuners and other stuff you can only get in Japan

Peter Kirn - March 13, 2025

Maker Monday: DIY your own tracker hardware for around $50-$75

Peter Kirn - January 6, 2025