Circuitnoise - a random fluctuation in an electrical signal

The name Circuitnoise refers to any unwanted or undesirable electrical signal that is present in an electronic circuit.

Music and electronics have been intertwined for decades. The use of electronics in early music making brought with it the issue of circuit noise, which impacted the quality and accuracy of the sound produced. Its caused by a range of factors, such as electromagnetic interference from other devices or components in the circuit, thermal noise generated by the components themselves, or electrical noise from power sources or other environmental factors. These circuit noises can cause a range of problems or desired effects, including distortion of signals, reduced signal-to-noise ratio, and even complete failure of the circuit.

The aim of the Circuitnoise project is to discover this vast field of random noises through electronic devices. Noises are an essential element of his sound design and he creates unique textures and soundscapes with it. He uses it to add grit and character to a sound, or to create complex and layered textures that are difficult to achieve with conventional sound sources. The Circuitnoise project uses it in conjunction with other sound sources, such as synthesizers or field recordings, to create a rich and dynamic sonic palette.

There are different kind of reasons for circuit noises such as electromagnetic interference from an outside source, electronic components emitting electromagnetic radiation or the current in the wire itself. Listen to these electromagnetic fields and radiations reveals an hidden cosmos of electromagnetic waves which can’t be heard or felt by a human being. These electromagnetic radiation are known and classified by wavelength as radiowave, microwave, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, x-rays and gamma rays. The process to make these unrecognizable waves hearable for human beings, is called Sonification.

Sonification is the use of non-speech audio to transport information or perceive data through sound. The Circuitnoise project uses these sonifications of data to complement sometimes visualisations, but he uses these mainly to create rhythms or sequences so that data can be perceived totally different. Like swelling sounds for increasing values or quite sounds of lower values. Tempo, pitch, amplitude and frequency resolution open here a lot of possibilities.

Algorithms and live music coding are also important aspects of his music. He’s uses Algorithms to generate complex and unpredictable patterns and rhythms, while live music coding allows him to create and manipulate sounds and rhythms in real time using programming languages such as SuperCollider or other apps in this area.

The use of noises in sound design, sonification of natural processes and algorithms offers unique creative possibilities and opportunities for experimentation. Whether it's the use of electromagnetic sounds and glitches in his compositions, or the sonification of waves beyond human hearing, he uses these noise to create rich and engaging sonic experiences that push the boundaries of conventional sound design. By embracing the art of noise, Circuitnoise explores new creative frontiers and push the limits of what is possible.