AI Cuts Music Device Software Development from Months to Days

With the approach known as “vibe coding,” code is developed with the help of artificial intelligence. This method has significantly accelerated the modification of music devices. Using large language models, enthusiasts are writing custom firmware for synthesizers, samplers, and drum machines. Simple add-ons that previously took weeks or months can now be completed in just a few days.

At the center of these innovations is the $70 (approximately 120 AZN) “M-Vave FM-1” synthesizer. Marketed as an inexpensive alternative to the “Yamaha DX-7,” the device has become popular for reproducing classic FM sounds. It now has dozens of custom firmware options, including “Felucca,” “Sloop,” and “x0x.” Many of the projects explicitly state that the code was developed with the help of “Claude.” This software allows the device to create virtual analog sounds, play samples, and sequence multiple sound channels.

Over the past 1 month, new features have also been developed for “Elektron” devices such as the “Digitone,” “Octatrack,” and “Digitakt.” The list includes the “Roland SP-404 MKII,” “Ableton Push 3,” “Move,” “Akai MPC Live,” “MPC One,” and the older “MPC 2000.” Custom software has also been released for the “Novation Circuit,” “Arturia MicroFreak,” and the 14-year-old “Zoom Multistomp” pedal series. “Claude” helped write the code for some of these projects.

Roman Rusinov has turned the budget-friendly “Zoom MS-70CDR” effects pedal, released in 2012, into a more capable modeler. The device can now emulate the sound of older amplifiers by processing “NAM A2 Lite” captures and custom impulse responses. In the “Modded Cycles” project, 6-channel audio over USB was also added to the “Elektron Model:Cycles” with the help of “Claude Code.” The community later joined the project, making it possible for the device to function like the “Model:Samples.”

However, this rapid development creates certain risks. Custom software may not undergo testing as extensive as the manufacturer’s official versions. Incorrect installation could render the device inoperable. “Elektron” has banned sharing links to such software on its forums. According to the company’s warning, modifications could cause serious problems during subsequent official updates. The creator of “Modded Cycles” has also paused the development of new features. He plans to improve the existing code and fix bugs.

“M-Vave” is taking a more open approach to this community. The company has announced the open-source “FM1 Open” firmware with additional features, a software development kit, and an installation tool. Although AI-developed music plugins and some new devices have faced criticism, custom software that adds new features to older equipment has received a more positive response. Nevertheless, users should keep in mind that installing unofficial software could damage their devices.