Custom LZX BITVISION (built) video synthesizer

Bitvision is a compact visual synthesizer designed for audiovisualization. It creates a Composite Video output signal which displays a 32×32 pixel image using the currently selected 16-color palette. BitVision is available as an assembled unit or a kit for DIY assembly.

Transformations can be applied to the current color palette and horizontal/vertical display modes in realtime, creating animation and movement. The manner in which the external audio and the internal counter transform the image can be changed via various modulation modes.

The goal of this project was to create a versatile video generator with a vintage/imperfect response to color and shape, such as what you might see when playing your Atari 2600 on an old CRT television in 1977. Colors will bleed and slew due to the voltage-controlled color phase shifter, giving a degree of chaotic analogue response and noise missing when viewing simple pixel graphics on a modern computer.

In addition to generating the video image, we packed in as many modulation capabilities and controls as we could in such a small package. In the tradition of the Atari Video Music, an analogue envelope follower and frequency counter track external audio signals and can modulate shape and color via many variable modulation routings. We wanted an audiovisualizer that could potentially provide live video for an entire musical performance, so 16 separate preset image/palette options are stored inside.

Finally, we wanted BitVision to be an expandable and continually useful tool for creating video art. To this end we’ve included an AVR-ISP programming header on the circuit board which can be used to reprogram BitVision with new images, palettes, or entirely alternate applications.

– A 32×32 pixel frame buffer which can display internal shapes and images in many colorization modes.
– 8-bit color palette, although thousands more can be revealed from the analog color phase shifter.
– An analog envelope follower/generator that responds to an external audio or clock signal, with gain and decay controls to modulate video.
– A frequency counter also derived from the audio input, which can modulate video based on the frequency of the input signal.
– Program and mode selection pushbuttons, as well as two arbitrary knobs and one pushbutton to control parameters dependent on the currently selected display program and mode.
– Integrating programming header allows savvy users to upload their own images and animation routines.
– 1/8″ jack audio input.
– NTSC Composite Video output (PAL version may be available in the future.)

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