Richie Hawtin Introduces the Bullfrog: An Educational Electronic Music Instrument

Renowned electronic musician Richie Hawtin has unveiled the Bullfrog, a new “educational electronic music instrument” created in collaboration with Erica Synths, a boutique hardware synth company based in Latvia.

Designed as a semi-modular synthesizer, the Bullfrog aims to provide users with an intuitive understanding of synthesis. It features eight modules, including a voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO), noise generator, and two envelope generators. The instrument’s sound generation can be achieved through patch cables (ten of which are included) or voice cards. The inclusion of three swappable cards and three pre-configured cards allows for versatile sound exploration.

The Bullfrog’s design and functionality emphasize the principles of subtractive synthesis and sound design. According to the press release, the instrument offers hands-on experience and problem-solving opportunities that extend beyond the realm of sound, imparting valuable life lessons.

Richie Hawtin shares his perspective, stating, “We believe that the hands-on approach and problem-solving that is innate to synthesis on a semi-modular synth like the Bullfrog contains life lessons that go beyond what we can hear. The Bullfrog encapsulates the foundations of synthesis and is built with an immediate, intuitive design and a unique expandable architecture that grows and expands together with our users’ imagination.”

The Bullfrog will be available for purchase starting from August 10th through the Erica Synths website and select electronic music retailers. To learn more about this exciting instrument, visit the official website.

In addition to his work on the Bullfrog, Richie Hawtin has been actively involved in various philanthropic initiatives, such as donating revenue to Ukrainian humanitarian aid organizations. He has also recently announced the establishment of the Richie Hawtin PhD Scholarship in Electronic Music, Cultures, and Production at the University of Huddersfield, which is set to commence in September 2023. Furthermore, Hawtin expanded his creative endeavors by collaborating with Zurich-based fashion house FRENCKENBERGER to release a limited-edition line of knitwear featuring the iconic Plastikman logo.