Beamz

The beamz is a laser-based music device. It is a W-shaped table-top device with six red laser beams.cite web
url= http://www.usatoday.com/tech/columnist/edwardbaig/2008-04-23-beamz-music-laser_N.htm
accessdate= 2008-08-07
title= Playing Beamz is addictive fun — but not worth $600
author= Edward C. Baid
date= 2008-04-23
publisher= USA Today] .

The system connects to a computer via USB. Each laser beam corresponds to an instrument or sound that the user plays by interrupting the beam. When the player removes his or her hand the sound stops. Even though the player’s interaction with the lasers occurs randomly, the device ensures that the music will always be harmonious. [cite web
url= http://www.bizjournals.com/phoenix/stories/2008/04/21/daily42.html
accessdate= 2008-08-07
title= Laser-activated music machine hits Sharper Image
date= 2008-04-24
publisher=Phoenix Business Journal]

Six laser triggers and two button-controlled triggers activate up to 64 independently controllable sequences of musical notes or events. When a laser beam is broken, the software program plays a musical note, event or musical phrase that is always harmonious to the other sounds being played at that time.

The product was created by musician and record producer Jerry Riopelle, who began working on creating the product in 2001. Riopelle built the original prototype with PVC pipe and lasers and later refined it by working with partners to develop the software that controls the device. [cite web
url= http://www.thebeamz.com/docs/company/team_cco.shtml
title= Founder and CCO Jerry Riopelle (corporate bio)
publisher=beamz Interactive]

The device was released and marketed in the United States in April 2008 by a Scottsdale, Arizona company called Beamz Interactive.

Related links

* Laser harp
* Music visualization

References