# Modular Hackable Synthesizers The 'POLYTIK' Modular Synthesizer is Open-Source and Encourages Mods By Michael Hemsworth | Published 2017-02-02 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/modular-synth References: [geeky-gadgets](http://www.geeky-gadgets.com/polytik-pocket-sized-modular-synthesisers-01-02-2017/) & [kickstarter](https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/musicofthespheres/polytik-modular-synths-playing-with-graphics-and-s) The 'POLYTIK' is a modular synthesizer that is capable of being modified, hacked and adjusted to suit the individual needs or preferences of the user. This is possible thanks to the [open-source hardware design](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/open-printer) of the 'POLYTIK' that enables and encourages users to tinker with the components to create something inherently for them. The 'POLYTIK' modular synthesizer is the work of John Richards and Jack Featherstone in collaboration with Artists & Engineers. Each of the 'POLYTIK' devices is capable of producing an [array of different sounds](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/grid-modular-sound) and noises that can be utilized in a number of different scenarios. The 'POLYTIK' consists of four separate modulars that allow users to switch up what's possible and further augment the device to be just to their liking. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.0/10 - Popularity: 48% | Activity: 34% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: Europe ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Gadgets](https://www.trendhunter.com/gadgets) ## Key Themes ### What's Driving This Trend - **Modular Synthesizers:** The trend of open-source and hackable modular synthesizers is disrupting traditional musical instrument manufacturing. - **DIY Music Equipment:** The trend of DIY music equipment is disrupting the music industry and enabling musicians to create their own personalized instruments. - **Electronic Music Making:** The trend of electronic music making is disrupting the traditional acoustic music making industry and providing new avenues for music creation and exploration. ### Who This Affects Most - **Musical Instrument Manufacturing:** The disruption of traditional musical instrument manufacturing is creating opportunities for companies to explore open-source and hackable instruments. - **Music Production:** The disruption of traditional music production is creating opportunities for DIY music equipment companies and electronic music making technology providers. - **Music Education:** The disruption of traditional music education is creating opportunities for modular synthesizer manufacturers and DIY music equipment providers to offer resources for electronic music making education. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Modular Construction Guitar Pedals](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/modern-guitar-pedal.md) - [Eco‑modular Audio Speakers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mynd-speaker.md) - [Stealthy Portable Synthesizers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/opxy.md) - [Sustainable Hand-Crafted Keyboards](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/working-synth.md) - [Kid-Friendly Synth Kits](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/fourstep-sequencer.md) - [Ultra-Modern MIDI Instruments](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/midi-device.md) - [Thrifty Hardware Synths](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hardware-synth.md) - [Modular High-End Guitars](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/shark-guitars.md) - [Interactive Display-Equipped Synthesizers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/love-hultn-x-lirona-synthboi.md)