Twin robots play acoustic guitar for $100 — but you must 3D-print them yourself

Remember Animusic, those animated music videos where computer-generated robots performed original tunes? The MegCell Pulse might be the coolest robot-music project since then — and this time, the sound is real.

Builder Bruce spent six years developing MegCell Pulse, a futuristic setup featuring two robots that work in concert to play an acoustic guitar, just like a pair of human hands. Feed them digital tablature, and the fraternal twins get to work: one handles fretting, the other does the plucking via six individual plectra. It's digital music producing analog sound from a physical instrument — a blend of software and hardware that's rare in the DIY robotics world.

How does it work? The system is essentially a network of gears, magnetic actuators, and arms, all housed in a 3D-printed frame. The robots can't traverse the entire fretboard, nor can they slide between frets — those are the main limitations. But within that range, they can play whatever you feed them, turning a regular guitar into an automated instrument.

The kicker is that you can't buy an assembled MegCell Pulse. Instead, you must print and build it yourself. The good news: the most expensive backing tier on the Kickstarter campaign is just $100. For that price, you get complete digital plans, including 3D print files, an assembly guide, control software, and a parts list. The campaign has a modest funding goal, and backers can check out demo videos embedded in the project page to see the twins in action.

Robots playing guitars have appeared before, but MegCell Pulse stands out for its dual-robot design and accessibility. At $100 for the full blueprint package, it's an affordable entry into automated music-making for tinkerers and guitar enthusiasts alike. Whether you're after a novelty piece or a serious experiment, this project offers a hands-on way to bring robotic musicianship to your own instrument.