For makers and artists tired of wrestling with clunky controllers, the SPOKE board removes the barrier between imagination and execution. It transforms whatever conductive object you have on hand—be it a fruit, a spoon, or a graphite sketch—into a responsive MIDI input without requiring a degree in electronics.
A single board, infinite inputs
Developed by VulpesLabs, this plug-and-play capacitive touch controller connects to a computer via USB-C and is immediately recognised as a MIDI device. The hardware relies on the Raspberry Pi RP2040 chip to handle the processing, ensuring it boots up instantly without the need for drivers or complex configuration.
Beyond standard music production, the board’s versatility extends to lighting control, game development, and interactive installations. It supports Polyphonic MIDI, allowing users to define custom notes, scales, and modes. The interface includes 27 dedicated capacitive touch inputs, which can be wired using crocodile clips, nuts, and bolts, or simply played directly on the board itself.
Zero setup, total flexibility
The standout feature is the frictionless entry point. Users can begin experimenting immediately without installing a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW), coding environment, or specialist software. Instead, a suite of browser-based tools is provided for music creation, sound recording, and code editing, accessible directly from any web browser.
For those wishing to dig deeper, the firmware runs on CircuitPython and is fully open-source. This allows for extensive customisation, while the physical board features programmable NeoPixel RGB LEDs and JST connectors for expanded wiring projects. It also supports HID keyboard and mouse emulation, as well as OSC and serial communication protocols.
Conductivity is the only limit
The system detects anything with “capacitive potential.” Metal items like keys, coins, pipes, spoons, and jewellery function perfectly. Even conductive 3D-printed parts work seamlessly. Organic materials such as fruit, vegetables, and mushrooms can serve as touch sensors, while thick graphite pencil drawings can be used as playable inputs.
For projects requiring a compact footprint, a smaller variant known as the SPOKE-mini is available for permanent installation within custom builds.
Pricing and availability
The standard SPOKE board is priced at £40, while the SPOKE-mini is available for £25. Both options are currently available via the manufacturer’s website.
Key takeaways
- The SPOKE board turns any conductive object, from kitchen utensils to fruit, into a functional MIDI controller instantly.
- It requires no drivers or external software to start, offering a browser-based environment for immediate experimentation.
- Built on the Raspberry Pi RP2040 with open-source CircuitPython firmware, it supports extensive customisation for music, lighting, and interactive art.
Stay ahead of AI. Get the most important stories delivered to your inbox — no spam, no noise.
