Another new crossover memeber

[james]

You might want to consider using a computer and a DAC. There are a number of applications that allow you to control the projector in real time in ways that are somewhat similar to an analog console. Plus you have all of the other features of being able to script shows with hand-drawn, cartoon like graphics.

If you're going to get into it, you have to start somewhere. Why not start out with something inexpensive that others have some experience with and then figure out what you really like and move toward that. There's nothing wrong with having multiple ways to make art.

[Revmutt]

Every once in a while a friend will give me an old PC laptop, I usually use it for something for a short while and then hand it to someone who really needs it. In the studio I use a Mac Pro, which isn't ideal for doing this space wise. The joys of a small apartment..

You are correct that any way to get there is better then none and art is art.
Aside from the lack of physical interaction the other issue with computers is one invests in hardware that is disposable which to me is very distracting. I like the fact that musical instruments go through decades making music. Wheel projectors from the early 70's still function. I like my tools to be solid and I really use the computer as a recorder editor.

You might want to consider using a computer and a DAC. There are a number of applications that allow you to control the projector in real time in ways that are somewhat similar to an analog console. Plus you have all of the other features of being able to script shows with hand-drawn, cartoon like graphics.

If you're going to get into it, you have to start somewhere. Why not start out with something inexpensive that others have some experience with and then figure out what you really like and move toward that. There's nothing wrong with having multiple ways to make art.

[james]

One method of making your own DAC might use a very inexpensive external USB sound device. Look for the USB SND8. It works in Windows, Linux and Mac OSX. It's fairly future proof. At the very least, there will always be some kind of inexpensive 7.1 surround sound device out there and you will probably always need the additional correction amp; at least with any kind of USB device that is powered by only positive voltage.

Did you look up Mac OSX OpenLase?

That might be closer to what you are looking for.

The good thing about going the whole route of using the correction amp is that you get a standard ILDA output that will work on any standard laser projector. You don't need to tweak your own projector to accept non-standard input voltages that would make both your DAC and your projector not compatible with the ILDA standard.

One more note about the analog console that DZ is showing here... That thing is absolutely beautiful and very much hand made. I have a feeling it will always hold its value, even if it's just a collector's item. I'm sure they will always be few in numbers.

James.

[Revmutt]

What I'm picturing is setting up a laser set up, either based on a console and then build lumia or diffraction wheels. The motors and servos are something i am comfortable working with and have some experience. I may start with an off the shelf lazer that can be modified to at least do xy audio control. I just don't see myself adding a computer. I don't mind them in the studio but whether I am standing there with a bass or next to light projectors I just don't want em around.

I may look into something like designing some stuff and off loading it from the computer but that's still really not what I want to be doing to start out. That would be if I found lasers worked for me then yeah..

[james]

Well, you could go with a much more "mechanical analog" approach. You can use DC motors with PWM speed controllers to create spinning mirror effects. You can create really nice looking Spirograph like images with just two or three motors. No galvos at all!

http://www.laserfx.com/Science/Science8.html

James.

[Revmutt]

I have a Chauvet Cirrus which I got very cheap because it needed some work. That unit gave me a chance to see what kind of laser images worked with traditional oils and collage. I do like the idea of building something although I am inclined to buy something and alter it because it gives me a chance to see what is going on inside the box.
If I could start with an off the shelf unit with xyz controls that can be driven by audio then I can get into the motors, mirrors and lenses.