Love Hultén’s Custom Guitar-Like Synth with Ferrofluid Visuals

Love Hultén has crafted a striking custom synthesizer that blends musical innovation with mesmerizing visuals. Inspired by the Y17 sound machine, this guitar-like instrument features a built-in ferrofluid display that comes alive and “dances” in response to sound. Commissioned by a private client, the device is part of Hultén’s expanding collection of experimental sonic projects.

The instrument is fully battery-powered and houses a modified Arturia Microfreak synth paired with the ferrofluid visualizer. It also includes integrated speakers, allowing players to hear the sound immediately without external equipment.

Design & Build

The hand-built synthesizer has a compact, boxy body with the upper left corner cut away to accommodate the speakers. Two distinctive arms extend from the body:

• One hosts the sound-triggering buttons.

• The other controls reverb effects.

Switches and rotary dials are neatly arranged across the body, positioned next to the encased ferrofluid display. A shoulder strap lets users carry and perform with the instrument

on the go, enhancing its “portable guitar” feel.

Written by Otávio Santiago, a designer passionate about creating meaningful visual experiences through graphic, motion, and 3D design. Based between Berlin and Lisbon, he works across disciplines — from print and branding to digital and animation.