Turntangilism: Enhancing traditional Turntable Setups with Tangible Controls for Digital Sequencing and Live Sampling

Abstract: This thesis examines how the familiar setup of vinyl DJ turntables can be reimagined by introducing tangible interfaces and digital tools. The goal is to open up new ways of making music while still respecting the traditions and gestures that define vinyl-based DJing. Influenced by practices such as turntablism, sequencing, and especially live sampling, the project focuses on how physical interaction with sound can be extended rather than replaced. The outcome of this exploration is the Turntangilism 3000, a modular system that uses small physical tokens, called Tamples (tangible samples), to control sound in playful and tactile ways. The setup connects seamlessly with a standard turntable environment and deliberately avoids screen-based interaction, emphasizing hands-on, non-quantized control. A range of custom-built devices, built around ESP microcontrollers, color and motion sensors, and a Bela audio board, provide the technical backbone for sampling, arranging, and processing audio in real time. The work is informed by my own background as a DJ, by historical developments in sampling culture, and by research in tangible user interfaces. Alongside documenting the technical development, the thesis discusses the design ideas that shaped the system and reflects on its potential in live performance. In the end, the Turntangilism 3000 seeks to connect digital and analog approaches, encouraging tangible and playful interaction in a performative context.