SOMA LaboratoryThe Pipe Dynamic FX Processor

SOMA Laboratory The Pipe

The Pipe from SOMA Laboratory is a new take on dynamic breath control, offering a powerful, integrated vocal effects processor in an ergonomic form factor. Designed as an entirely new approach to using a voice in the context of an electronic or experimental music composition, The Pipe boasts a thoughtful design that underscores its powerful features. The breadth of its usefulness is immediately recognizable upon first glance—its unique shape makes it perfect for holding in a single hand, leaving the other free to manipulate its onboard settings, or even play other instruments simultaneously. Physically, The Pipe is essentially two components: 1) a handheld piece and 2) a break-out box that contains 1/4" L R audio output jacks (1/4-inch) and a DC input for power. A mic stand + neck-strap adaptor (sold separately) allows you to treat the instrument like you would a saxophone or other wind instrument, or even mount The Pipe on a mic or boom stand for maximum flexibility.

The Pipe is not limited to conventional singing, though it can certainly handle that approach just fine. Due to the careful construction and selection of components, the internal contact microphone is not just another one-trick-pony. Rather, it responds to subtle nuances like the performer's lip position and breathing. This affords the ability to transcend conventional singing and influence the instrument in a variety of ways more akin to that of a beatboxer, resonator, or non-linear noise source as opposed to a traditional vocalist. The Pipe can also host an external audio source via its 1/4" jack, making it a powerful effects processor for synths, drum machines, guitars, and more. Whatever the desired result, SOMA has taken great care to ensure that The Pipe is all one needs to unleash the depths of their subconscious through dynamic expression.

The Pipe holds 12 different algorithms, each of which alter its behavior in drastic ways and open new levels of interaction.

The Pipe Features

• Dynamic vocal effects processor with 12 unique algorithms
• Comprised of a handheld piece and breakout box for audio output and power
• Sensitive contact mic is easily influenced by subtle motions like breath and lip position
• Onboard effects selector knob and parameter control knobs for extensive control mid-performance
• 1/4" input for external signals
• Includes mic with Standard response (emphasized mids for a warm sound)
• Additional mic responses available with Flat and Bassy mics (sold separately)

The Pipe's Algorithms:

• ORPHEUS: a dual resonator instrument comparable to singing into a grand piano with the pedal depressed
• FILTERRA: a dynamic, resonant filter with reverb and manual control over the filter cutoff
• SYNTH: re-synthesizes your voice into an oscillator with a lowpass filter, reverb/delay and an octave effect
• REVERB: adds reverb to your voice with optional delay, distortion, and a dry/wet mix to combine the effects with your unprocessed voice
• MADELAY: a glitchy delay that leaps around inside the delay line at a rate set by the Tempo control
• PULSE: produces a pulse train at a rate set by the Tempo control for rhythmic, arpeggio-like effects
• BASSDRUM: analyzes the frequency content of your voice to produce either TR-909esque bass drum or snare hits
• SWITCHABLE BASSDRUM: allows you to alternate the BASSDRUM algorithm with the unprocessed sound of your voice for cybernetic beatboxing effects
• BASSDRUM+SNARE: gives you manual control over the presence of snare hits by touching the FX Sensor control
• OKTAVA: an octave pitch shifter that turns your voice into a massive lead with optional filter, shimmer, and delay effects
• GENERATOR: a highly experimental algorithm consisting of filters, delay with feedback, and ring modulation
• HARCHO!: Named after a Georgian sour beef soup and rice dish, this is the most experimental of The Pipe's algorithms, consisting of 3 digital distortion effects, a filter, and delay/reverb—proceed with caution!