Artinoise, the Italian startup known for re.corder—a smart device that reimagines the classic plastic recorder used in schools—has launched its latest innovation: Zefiro.
This portable device resembles a recorder mouthpiece and connects to any smartphone, tablet, or PC via a USB-C port, turning it into a versatile musical instrument.
Through its companion app, Zefiro offers access to around 32 unique sounds, allowing it to mimic a wide range of instruments, from soft flutes and violins to bold trumpets, saxophones, and even bagpipes.
When connected, Zefiro is recognized by the device’s MIDI input, and the app presents a virtual interface with buttons, keys, or wind holes.
Equipped with lip sensors and a highly sensitive air pressure sensor, the Zefiro can interpret breath power to control volume and pitch.
On Tuesday, Artinoise launched a Kickstarter campaign to support Zefiro’s release, offering backers a price of €22 (around $23 USD), while the retail price is expected to be €42 (about $44 USD).
Zefiro is marketed as both a MIDI breath controller and a digital instrument, addressing a niche market where wind MIDI controllers can cost up to $900. Many digital instruments on the market today are also notably expensive.
The Zefiro app enhances the user experience with features such as breathing exercises, sound layering, a looper, background sounds, and the ability to record and share audio clips.
It will be available for free download on the App Store and Google Play Store, though access to its functions requires a Zefiro device.
Artinoise aims to roll out updates every two months, with features allowing users to customize the interface by uploading images and selecting where to place buttons for playing specific notes.
“Maybe they can put the face of someone they know, the button on the eye, on the cheeks, mouth, or whatever, or invent some kind of different instrument, and putting down the notes that they want to play,” said Artinoise founder and CTO Davide Mancini in an interview with TechCrunch.
Zefiro’s design also makes it accessible to individuals with physical impairments, such as those with respiratory challenges.
Mancini explained that the sensor is easy to use and only requires a gentle breath, allowing users with limited lung capacity to set a low threshold for activation.
Artinoise is also planning to release an optional headpiece for hands-free operation, making Zefiro a complementary instrument for musicians playing guitar or piano.
In addition, Artinoise intends to make Zefiro’s technology open source, encouraging developers to create new accessibility applications. For example, users with disabilities could blow into the device to control smart lights.
The initial shipment is expected worldwide by late January to early February. Artinoise currently holds two pending patents in the U.S. and Italy.
