by Taiwan-based project, Muro Box, introduced an ingeniously designed mechanical music box back in mid-2020. This music box allowed users to load tunes onto the device using a smartphone app. Now, the makers of Muro Box are aiming to double the enjoyment with the launch of the Muro Box N40.
The original model of this mains-powered music box featured a patented cylinder that could be adjusted through the app. By doing so, ridges on the cylinder would strike the teeth of a tuned comb, creating a beautiful melody within a 20-note diatonic range.
The Muro Box N40, as the name suggests, expands the range to 40 notes by incorporating two units within a single box. This means that the standard model now covers almost four octaves of whole tones and semitones (with a few notes excluded).
The N40 model comes pre-loaded with 30 complimentary melodies that can be edited offline. Just like its predecessor, the Muro Box N40 allows users to load songs from a global user community using the free iOS/Android app. Users can also preview tunes and even compose new melodies directly on the app.
The mechanical music box features a zinc-alloy base with a maple housing. A notable addition to the N40 is the removable lid. It also includes 5-pin DIN and USB-C ports, which allow for direct connection to MIDI hardware for customized song creation. Additionally, the N40 features a 6.5-mm audio output jack connected to a transducer, enabling recording capabilities.
The Muro Box N40 also introduces a Sublime version, which showcases four tuned combs. With two combs on each side of the cylinder, each note is played simultaneously by two combs, creating a unique sound. These combs, also known as vibration plates, utilize a 14 cents difference. The flagship Sublime model boasts a brass base and is enclosed in a thermally modified acacia box.
Currently, Kickstarter pledge levels for the Muro Box N40 start at $972. As with any crowdfunding campaign, backers should exercise caution. If all goes according to plan, shipping is estimated to commence from April 2024.
In addition to the N40, the creators have also developed the N20 Lite Battery, which is a battery-powered version of the original Muro Box. However, this option will only be added to the campaign once a combined base figure of $660,000 is reached from this Kickstarter campaign and Wabay in Taiwan.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
