Look Mum No Computer's latest DIY synth build sparks viral reaction

Sam Battle, the creator behind Look Mum No Computer, pushed his hands-on electronics work back into the spotlight this week with a striking new build that has reignited interest across music and maker communities. The video showcases a large, unconventional instrument that blends modular synthesis, repurposed hardware and an unmistakable live-performance ethos.

What viewers are seeing

The new clip, published this week and circulating rapidly online, opens with the creator presenting a heavily modified instrument rig: a hybrid of vintage keyboard components, custom-built circuits and a modular setup patched for live interaction. Viewers responded to the scale of the build and the clear, staged performance that follows — a short, high-energy set demonstrating the rig's sonic range.

Highlights include aggressive, distorted bass tones, chaotic percussive sequences produced by clocked noise modules, and playful melodic lines routed through unconventional effects. The practical electronics on display — soldered components, hand-wired panels and repurposed parts — underline the project's DIY spirit and showmanship.

Community reaction and impact

Reaction among synth enthusiasts and creators has been swift. Many praised the ingenuity of the hardware hacks and the accessible teaching style that often accompanies the creator's work. Threads in maker and music communities have already broken down the build into component parts, speculated about circuit designs, and debated potential replication strategies.

Beyond technical discussion, the video reignited conversations about the appeal of tactile instrument-building in an era dominated by software. Viewers repeatedly pointed to the visceral nature of physical interaction with hardware — pressing keys, turning knobs, and visibly patching sound — as a key part of the video's appeal. A number of musicians and small-scale builders indicated plans to attempt simplified versions of certain modules, while established modular builders noted the clip's potential to draw new users into hands-on synthesis.

Where this leaves the creator

The creator has long balanced showmanship with detailed technical explanations; this release seems to follow that model. The format — part demonstration, part performance, part walkthrough — has proven effective at engaging both casual viewers and more technically minded audiences. With renewed attention, interest in the creator's future projects, potential live dates and hardware releases looks likely to grow.

For fans of experimental sound design and instrument fabrication, the build offers a fresh example of how inventive hardware and expressive performance can combine to produce memorable, widely shared content. Whether the wider synth and maker communities will see a wave of imitators remains to be seen, but the video's early momentum suggests the creator's influence on DIY electronic music culture is as strong as ever.

Editors' note: This item reflects the most recent coverage and community reaction around the creator's new project and performance video. Times referenced are in Eastern Time (ET).