Erica Synths Pikocore

Lo-fi digital desktop synthesizer

• Lo-fi music mangler based on Raspberry Pi Pico, developed by Zack Scholl
• Up to 8 minutes of 8-bit / 33 kHz mono samples
• Power supply via USB-C
• Tempo sync with selectable BPM 60-300 and beat-synced effects (stutter, retrig, gate, tunneling)
• Real-time effects: resonant filter, timestretch, volume, wavefolding
• 128-step sequencer with recording/playback
• Save/load via EEPROM for instant recall
• Firmware and sample upload via USB-C, sync compatible with Pocket Operators
• Open-source and highly hackable

Pikocore: lo-fi music mangler on Raspberry Pi Pico

The Pikocore is a lo-fi "music mangler" based on Raspberry Pi Pico, developed by Zack Scholl. It is designed to shred samples and patterns with an immediate and creative approach: a small digital tool capable of transforming audio material into dirty grooves, glitches and rhythmic textures, with a performance-oriented workflow.

8-bit samples, tempo sync and tempo effects

It can hold up to 8 minutes of monophonic 8-bit samples at 33 kHz and works in time sync with selectable BPM between 60 and 300. "Beat-synced" effects (such as stutter, retrig, gate and tunneling) allow you to mangle samples following the rhythm grid, while real-time effects (resonant filtering, timestretching, volume control and wavefolding) add additional sound shaping.

Sequencer, patch recall and hacking capabilities

The 128-step sequencer with record/playback makes it easy to build and recall patterns. Presets are saved and loaded via EEPROM for instant recall. In addition, you can upload firmware and new samples directly via USB-C. The system is open-source and "hackable," and supports synchronization with Pocket Operators.

Important Note (DIY and Support)

Erica Synths DIY kits are sold "as-is" and do not include technical support, troubleshooting, or repair services. By purchasing and assembling a DIY kit, functionality depends on soldering skills, tools, and experience. Erica Synths assumes no responsibility for problems, malfunctions, or damage resulting from improper assembly or use.

Technical Specifications.

• Type: desktop lo-fi digital synthesizer/music mangler
• Platform: Raspberry Pi Pico
• Sample memory: up to 8 minutes, 8-bit 33 kHz, monophonic
• Power supply: USB-C
• Tempo: BPM selectable 60-300, effects synchronized to the beat
• Sequencer: 128 steps with recording/playback
• Storage: EEPROM (immediate patch recall)
• Transfer: firmware and samples via USB-C
• Sync: compatible with Pocket Operators
• License/approach: open-source, hackable