10.10.2026 –, FabLAB Chemnitz Language: Deutsch
MLP is a hardware groovebox built around an internal modular framework that allows performers to shape its structure according to their own artistic approach. Instead of following the conventional “one design fits all” philosophy, it operates as a flexible performance system: layout, signal flow, and behavior can be reconfigured by selecting ready-made modules or by designing custom modules in Pure Data. At the same time, MLP includes ready-to-play patches that require no prior customization, making it immediately usable as a complete instrument without the need to build a setup from scratch.
The starting point of MLP was the drive towards independence from corporate product cycles and mass-market constraints. It runs on a Raspberry Pi 5 and follows a modular hardware philosophy focused on longevity and repairability. Components are interchangeable and designed to be serviced rather than discarded. If greater processing power is required in the future, the computing unit can simply be replaced with a newer Raspberry Pi instead of replacing the entire instrument.
MLP Core
The heart of the system is a large Pure Data patch designed like a modular synthesizer. It currently includes complex 64-step sequencers, drum modules, LFOs, mixers, and basic effects, with its own saving and modulation structure. More modules will be added over time. The core runs on any system that can run Pure Data (Vanilla). In the future it will be developed into a dedicated version for MLP Hardware, making use of unique libraries and compiled objects that are not available on standard systems.
MLP GUI
When running on its dedicated hardware, the user does not interact with the Pure Data interface directly. Instead, a custom Python GUI handles all essential functions — loading, duplicating, and deleting patches, shutting down, updating the system, and importing patches from USB — without requiring a desktop environment or terminal access.
MLP OS
MLP OS is a preconfigured and minimally customized version of Patchbox OS, which itself is based on Raspberry Pi OS. It is optimized for low-latency audio performance and configured specifically to run MLP reliably as a dedicated instrument system.
MLP Hardware
The current reference build runs on a Raspberry Pi 5 with its official 5" touchscreen, a HiFiBerry 8X (8 audio outputs), and a modified Akai APC Key 25 (mini keys removed), all housed in a plywood case. We are testing alternative hardware options including the Zynthian main module and prototyping a modular hardware approach — but that process is still in its early stages.
For further information about the group behind the project:
www.wueste.info
The project itself is fully documented on codeberg:
www.codeberg.org/johannkabuye/wueste_mlp
wueste.info is an independent platform for experimental music, live improvisation and DIY culture, developed over the past ten years.
The project grew out of a desire to explore music beyond fixed genres and established formats. Instead of focusing on a particular style such as techno, krautrock or rock, Wüeste is interested in improvisation, experimentation and the spaces between genres.
Over time, this approach expanded beyond music itself. The project also questions how music is produced, distributed and consumed in an increasingly platform-driven environment.
Rather than relying exclusively on commercial platforms and their algorithms, Wüeste aims to build its own infrastructure for publishing, documenting and sharing music. The website brings together recordings, interviews, performances, works in progress and experiments with tools and formats.
The underlying idea is simple: instead of only criticising existing structures, build small alternatives and see what happens.