The SquishBox is a compact enclosure for the Raspberry Pi (not included) that provides a stompbutton, a rotary encoder, a bright and easy-to-read 16x2 character LCD display, and a high-quality sound card with 1/4" outputs. With this you have a software stompbox (hence the name) with simple controls that you can take anywhere and do audio things! The software for the SquishBox lets you set it up as several different types of software synthesizers, an audio player, or even create interfaces for your own apps using Python.

I created the SquishBox because I wanted a software synth for playing live that was portable and easy to set up, and that I could customize exactly the way I wanted. Now I show up to a gig, plunk the SquishBox down on the floor or set it on an amp/table/keyboard and plug it in using a standard 9-Volt effects pedal power supply, plug in audio cables and MIDI controllers, and start playing. The FluidPatcher software I designed for the SquishBox uses the FluidSynth sound engine, with a vast library of soundfonts available on the internet (a healthy selection is included), the ability to play MIDI files and sequences, arpeggiate and loop notes, and use plugin effects - all set up using easy-to-read text files. I've created a series of lesson videos that teach you how to use all these features.

The SquishBox works with a Raspberry Pi 3A/3B/4 or a Raspberry Pi Zero - make sure to choose the correct lid when purchasing. Please note that this product does not include a Raspberry Pi computer. The SquishBox can be powered by a 9-Volt adapter with a center-negative 5.5mm x 2.1mm DC barrel jack, like those used for many effects pedals, or you can use your regular 5-Volt Raspberry Pi power supply by threading the connector through one of the side notches near the DC jack and plugging it directly into your Pi. It's easy to install and remove the Pi as you need - it plugs right in and four screws secure the lid, which holds your Pi snugly in place. You don't have to install a custom OS or image - the software installs into an existing Raspberry Pi OS. You can connect to and program your Pi using its built-in wifi, or by connecting a USB to TTL console cable to the serial port pins on the left side.

The SquishBox is also available as a kit if you'd like to assemble it yourself. Setup instructions are in the Documentation link below. For additional information, support, and tips on customizing your SquishBox, visit Geek Funk Labs!

SquishBox Features:

• Durable 3D-printed PLA case, currently available in blue, red, or black
• Rotary encoder for selecting patches/options and opening menus
• Stompbutton for triggering effects, sustain
• Indicator LED for stompbutton
• 16x2 character LCD
• 1/4" jacks that can provide mono, stereo, or headphone connections
• A built-in PCM5102 DAC for high-quality, low-latency audio output