This is a great idea. By turning the CD case into an instrument (a photo-sensitive “theremin”), Moldover makes the clunky physicality of the object an asset. CDs are completely outdated as a way to pass around bits, but this has an edge on plain mp3s. (Although, as you can see by the fact that he made another version of the circuit board that is pocket sized, the CD form factor can still be a pain in the ass.)

Reminds me of Tristan Perich’s 1-Bit Music, another project that makes novel use of the jewel case form, but could be made much smaller/convenient. (Or who am I kidding—stick one in an orchestrion.)

(via Create Digital Music)

update: looks like CDM picked up on the 1-Bit comparison too.