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# Toolkit-Inspired Experimental Synthesizers
Love Hultén Has Debuted the MDLR-37 Synthesizer

By Kalin Ned | Published 2021-06-15 | Art & Design
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/experimental-synthesizer
References: [dezeen](https://www.dezeen.com/2021/06/02/love-hulten-mdlr-37-synthesiser-wooden-design/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:+dezeen+%28Dezeenfeed%29) & [lovehulten](https://www.lovehulten.com/)

Many are familiar with the works of Swedish audiovisual artist Love Hultén who is beloved for his [experimental synthesizers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/electronic-musical-instrument), as well as his striking juxtaposing approach of nostalgic sensibilities with modern references. Most recently, the creative launched the design of his MDLR-37 synthesizer.

The experimental synthesizer is a one-off machine—much like the majority of Love Hultén’s work. The instrument is distributed across “[four semi-modular sections](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/grid-modular-sound) [that are] enclosed in a painted wood case.” If you look closely, you might come to the logical conclusion that the MDLR-37 is reminiscent of a “fold-out wooden toolkit.” The piece is designed for a client “who wanted a [portable set-up](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/opxy) combining his favorite synth gear.”

About his process, Hultén shares with Dezeen: ""My designs are usually based on something I've come across recently, an interesting object, could be anything really – anything that sparks my imagination."

Image Credit: Dezeen

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 1.3/10
- Popularity: 23% | Activity: 5% | Freshness: 10%
- Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women
- Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X
- Top markets: North America, Europe

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/design)

## Key Themes

### What Makes This Trend Stand Out

- **Experimental Synthesizers:** The demand for handmade, experimental synthesizers is growing, presenting opportunities for small-scale artisanal producers.
- **Semi-modular Synthesizers:** Semi-modular designs are becoming increasingly popular due to their portability, flexibility and affordability, creating opportunities for entry-level producers and hobbyists.
- **Nostalgic Modern Synthesizers:** There's a growing interest in taking inspiration from nostalgia, while still incorporating modern technology and design, offering opportunities for creative mashups in the music industry.

### Sectors Adopting This

- **Musical Instrument Manufacturing:** Handmade and customizable instruments are gaining popularity and manufacturers can tap into this market by providing unique, high-quality and innovative products.
- **DIY Synthesizer Kits:** The rise in DIY synth culture presents opportunities for kit manufacturers to develop and market accessible, affordable, and customizable product offerings.
- **Electronic Music Festivals:** Electronic music festivals can incorporate experimental and unconventional synthesizers into their events to attract and engage new audiences.

## Related on Trend Hunter

- [Interactive Display-Equipped Synthesizers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/love-hultn-x-lirona-synthboi.md)
- [Stackable Modular Synths](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/3tonic.md)
- [Sustainable Hand-Crafted Keyboards](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/working-synth.md)
- [Artist-Designed Instruments](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/tame-impala.md)
- [Plant-Powered MIDI Sound Sculptures](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/love-hultn-tegel.md)
- [Kid-Friendly Synth Kits](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/fourstep-sequencer.md)
- [Quirky Strummable Synths](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/electronic-synth.md)
- [Stanalone 61-Key Synthesizers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/astrolab.md)
- [Stealthy Portable Synthesizers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/opxy.md)
