the Les Paulverizer

The Les Paulverizer allows students to learn about the history and stage implementation of Les Paul's "Les Paulverizer" and then implement that technology in their own creative pursuits. With the support of the Les Paul Foundation, our team, the WPI RATLab, recreated and adapted Les Paul's concept into this USB/MIDI-over-Bluetooth device that allows musicians to play back pre-recorded audio files using accessible controls. Students then compose and perform new pieces using this technology.

The Les Paulverizer is available for purchase through our friends at DIY:RE in two forms: 1) as a DIY kit whereby students can also learn about soldering and microcontrollers, and 2) as a fully-assembled device (identical to the kit). Proceeds from sales support the Les Paul Foundation and the WPI RATLab.

This project is proudly open-source—download the software and firmware from our GitHub repository. Be sure to view our video build guide here.