Part of the growing trend of artist-created hardware, the Orchid was created by Kevin Parker, the multi-instrumentalist behind Tame Impala.

Developed by Telepathic Instruments, Orchid appeared briefly in mock-ups and press releases just before Black Friday with the kind of mystical vibes once associated with new Apple products. Orchid, according to a release, was an “advanced chord generating hardware synthesizer,” sold as an entirely new instrument, dubbed by Telepathic as an “ideas machine.” Every link on their website for more information pointed to a sales page. Sales could only be conducted on the morning of December 18, when that sales page would be hidden behind a password, which would be disclosed on a Patreon page, which would grant you the honor of paying $549 for Kevin Parker’s ideas machine.

Surprisingly, “ideas machine” probably is the most accurate description of Orchid from what’s been revealed. It’s a very small idea machine, but we are advised that not all big ideas must come in big packages. Orchid features a single octave keyboard of just 12 keys, compact buttons and wheel knobs. You press a key to determine the root note of a chord, then apply one of 4 “chord types.” Spinning the radio dial you can modify the position of the chord and… well, do you care about this kinda thing? Almost everyone who saw the ad for Orchid fell in love with the ad for Orchid. The product itself seemed to be part of the aesthetic of the ad. I’m not sure if that’s the dopest or the dopiest thing I’ve ever heard.

When asked if Orchid was for experienced musicians or novices, Telepathic answers “Yes.” It’s not just for fans of Tame Impala, but I would be surprised if anyone who isn’t already a fan has gotten the chance to touch one.

The production run for Orchid was 1,000 pieces, sold out during that December 18 sales odyssey. Even those aren’t shipping yet, but it seems there is a waitlist for if and when they produce more.

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MOVE! Originally published in 5 Mag Issue #218 featuring Detroit’s ambassador-at-large, Mike Agent X Clark, plus Mystic Freaks, DJ Slugo and more. Become a member for $2/month and get every issue in your inbox right now…