Blipblox myTRACKS, A Kid’s Toy – Like MPC-Inspired Groovebox
Playtime Engineering, the company behind the Blipblox line of toy-like instruments for ages three and older, has announced the upcoming launch of Blipblox myTRACKS, a groovebox and sampler for kids.
Combining the colorful aesthetics and safety of a kids’ toy (with the functionality of a legitimate musical instrument) with the sounds and style of a hip-hop-inspired groovebox, Blipblox myTRACKS brings the joy of making music to anyone, anywhere. A crowdfunding campaign to support the launch opens early next month.
In addition to being a drum machine and basic sampler, the Blipblox myTRACKS is a complete music production studio. The instrument features a built-in microphone for sampling, two FX processors, five tracks, and 25 play pads that trigger over 50 acoustic, electronic, and percussive instrument sounds.
myTRACKS’ set of 25 backlit pads can be used to trigger sounds from its library of 48 instruments and drum kits or play back samples recorded via the built-in microphone. Sounds can be layered and sequenced over five tracks and run through two FX processors (filter and delay) that can be modulated using the levers on the sides. The groovebox is battery-operated and has a built-in speaker.
Designed to “eliminate complexity and maximize fun”, myTRACKS promises to simplify beatmaking for kids by keeping musical key and style consistent across tracks and sounds. There’s also a randomize button for instantly generating new songs using myTRACKS’ built-in sounds. New sound packs and sets can be downloaded from Playtime’s website and uploaded to myTRACKS. The powerful randomize feature instantly creates new songs for unlimited fun and inspiration.
“Creating music with synthesizers and modern music tech has always felt like play to me,” says Troy Sheets, Co-founder of Playtime Engineering. “By merging the portability, durability, and safety of toys with high-quality and advanced functionality of a legitimate instrument, we’ve created a fun and accessible music-making machine that anyone can play.”
myTRACKS is equipped with 3.5mm audio out, MIDI Out for hooking up with external gear and a USB-C connection for power and sound pack upgrades.
To fund the launch of this newest addition to the Blipblox product line, Playtime Engineering is opening a Kickstarter campaign on April 9. Tiered pricing will range from $249 – $299 for Kickstarter contributors, and the first round of products is expected to be delivered in November 2024. Find out more on Playtime Engineering website.
