README

ZicBox: A Modular Framework for Building Music Applications

ZicBox is a modular C++ framework for building music applications and custom audio hardware.

The project targets Raspberry Pi and Linux desktop first, with additional proof-of-concept ports on platforms like STM32H7 and ESP32.

Several hardware builds have been explored over time, and some are fully functional today.



If you have any questions, feel free to ask on Discord:



 🎵 Features 🎶

 Framework Architecture
ZicBox is organized as reusable C++ modules so new engines, devices, and interfaces can be added without rewriting the core.

 Rendering & Platform Support
- Runs on Raspberry Pi and Linux desktop.
- On Raspberry Pi, UI rendering can target an SPI display or the Linux framebuffer directly.
- Includes basic drawing libraries used to build portable UIs across targets.

 Core Libraries
- audio/ – Audio building blocks: synth engines, filters, effects, modulation, envelopes, sequencing, and more.
- draw/ – Cross-platform UI and rendering utilities.
- helpers/ – System and utility layer: GPIO, SPI, I2C, filesystem helpers, math helpers, and other low-level tools.

 🎛 Why Choose ZicBox?

- 🖥️ Hardware-First – Built to power custom audio instruments on Raspberry Pi and desktop Linux.
- 🧩 Modular by Design – Extend engines, UI, and hardware support incrementally.
- 🔧 Practical C++ Stack – One primary language across engine, UI, and platform layers.

ZicBox provides a practical foundation for building custom music applications and audio hardware, from compact embedded instruments to desktop-based setups.

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 📥 Get Started

The fastest way to dive into zicBox is to start with one of the existing builds.

 ZicXY

 

ZicXY is the latest hardware iteration in the zicBox family. It features 8 versatile multi-engine tracks, capable of running drums, synths, or samples — all handled by a single, flexible multi-engine system.

- 8 Multi-Engine Tracks – Any track can load drums, synths, or sample engines. Independent envelopes, mixer, and FX routing.
- DIY Friendly – BOM, PCB files, and build instructions are available for those who want to assemble their own Zic XY.

More details: https://github.com/apiel/zicBox/wiki/20-Zic-XY

 ZicPixel – The Most Accessible Build

 

If you want to try zicBox with minimal effort, zicPixel is the best entry point:

- Simple & Affordable – Only a handful of componen-ts to solder onto the PCBs.
- Pre-Built OS – A ready-to-flash system image is available in the Releases.
- Enclosures – Multiple 3D-printable cases exist.
- Plug & Play – Just assemble the hardware, flash the OS, and you’ll be making music in no time.

The Pixel Groovebox is a portable, performance-focused digital workstation combining drums, samples, and synths — all in one compact instrument.

 🧩 8 Tracks

- 6 Multi engine Tracks
  - Drum: Kicks, metallic hits, claps, bass drums, and FM percussion...
  - Synth: Build lush pads, sharp leads, or evolving textures with 9 synth engines.
- 2 Sam

Top issues

Discussions

Latest release

This release contains both zicPixelDrift firmware and zicOs image for rpi zero2w.