Beat Machine Grid
Transforming a visual grid tutorial into a sound installation
Tech Stack
Creative
Tools
Beat Machine Grid
An installation project that transforms a 3D grid into a beat machine, built in TouchDesigner and inspired by a Noto the Talking Ball tutorial.
Overview
The original Noto the Talking Ball tutorial explains how to instance geometry in a grid, with each cell reacting to mouse input. I reworked the concept to make it audio-driven instead of mouse-driven, turning the grid into an audio sequencer.
- A white-on-black image is fed into the grid, with white pixels raising cells and black pixels leaving them flat.
- The grid is divided into multiple rows, with each row representing a different instrument or track.
- A vertical bar sweeps across the grid like a playhead. When it passes over a raised cell, the corresponding sound for that row is triggered.
Why I Built It
I wanted to explore how TouchDesigner could be used not just for visuals but also as a real-time instrument. This project merges generative graphics with sound design, creating an experience where visuals and audio respond together.
Evolution
- Version 1: Basic adaptation of the Noto tutorial into a sequencer with image input.
- Version 2 (concept): Add a depth-sensing camera so participants can place objects on a physical table to alter beats in real time.
- Version 3 (concept): Use a projector to display control areas (volume, tempo, pitch, instrument choice) directly on the table, where objects placed in zones would manipulate the music.
What I Built
- A 3D grid driven by pixel brightness, where cells raise or stay flat.
- A timing bar that sweeps across the grid, triggering sounds by row and column.
- A system mapping rows to instruments, turning visuals into beats.
Tools Behind the Scenes
- TouchDesigner for real-time visuals and sequencing logic
- Depth camera (concept) for object detection on a table
- Projector (concept) to add interactive control overlays
What I Learned
- How to adapt a visual grid system into an audio sequencer
- Using TouchDesigner for sound triggering, not just visuals
- Designing for tangible interactivity, where physical objects can shape sound
Takeaway
This prototype showed me how TouchDesigner can bridge visuals and sound into one interactive system, and opened up ideas for installations where people could literally build beats by placing everyday objects on a table.
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