Thoughtful Things has launched a Kickstarter campaign for Engram, a hardware sampler and groovebox designed for experimental sound design. The device utilizes a locally running, custom-trained AI model to process audio and generate new sounds, intentionally pushing models toward hallucinations.
Unlike cloud-based generative music tools, Engram operates offline without an internet connection. The company states that its AI models were trained exclusively on datasets licensed for commercial use, specifically excluding pirated or non-commercial content.
Founder Evan King describes the device as a field recorder for latent space, drawing inspiration from circuit bending techniques. Users can manipulate and intentionally disrupt the AI models to create glitchy, uncanny audio textures.
The startup plans to release the device firmware, allowing users to customize the system or load their own AI models. This open approach aims to encourage experimentation beyond the factory settings.
The Kickstarter campaign offers a limited initial run of units starting at $675. While the final retail price is not confirmed, the company estimates it will fall between $850 and $900, noting that the current pledge represents a 30 percent discount.
