RyanEmerson said:
I've seen the specs, and I've read some reviews, but I still don't understand what it IS.
Just like you wrote, it's a sound effects generator. The only difference between this & other things is that you control the parameters in real-time with your hands in the air, just above the unit.
Is it just a toy that makes a bunch of different sounds?
Yup. Just like a rompler is just a toy that makes a bunch of different sounds.
Because then I don't undertsnad why it's so great.
maybe it ain't for you, then. I think they're pretty damn cool.
Like a theremin. When your hand(s) enter the active area above
the airFX, they act as modulators for whatever sound you've selected to play, and/or modulators for the sound source you're sending through the unit. Let's say you got a flange program selected, when you pass your hands through the sphere, you can control depth, rate, panning, volume, send or return amount, and so on by changing the position of your hands. More fun than turning a knob or programming changing parameters, and it can help transform a live performance into a freak-show of one if you're really playing around alot.
Hope that helps. maybe someone can better explain (or correct) me.
Check these links out...
http://thereminworld.com/learn.asp
http://theremin.info/
fd