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:
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ZicBox is organized as reusable C++ modules so new engines, devices, and interfaces can be added without rewriting the core.
- 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.
- 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.
- 🖥️ 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.
The fastest way to dive into zicBox is to start with one of the existing builds.
Zic XY 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
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.
- 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 Sample Tracks
- Play, stretch, and reshape any audio using mono, granular, AM, or time-stretch engines.
Each track runs its own engine, with independent envelopes, modulation, and FX.
- 🥁 Drums: Kick, Clap, Bass, Metallic, Percussion, ER-1 PCM, Volca-style, FM Drum, String Drum.
- 🎹 Synth: FM, Wavetable 1 & 2, Additive 1 & 2, SuperSaw, SpaceShip, Bass, String.
- 🎚️ Samples: Mono, Grain, AM, Stretch.
From tight kicks to shimmering pads and evolving textures, Pixel Groovebox is both classic and experimental.
Shape every transient, morph every tone, and push boundaries without losing groove.
Built with the mindset to keep things simple, Pixel focuses on
hands-on control, instant sound design, and
a world of simple, musical engines that are easy to use.
For those looking for something bigger, ZicGrid takes things further:
- RGB Grid Pad to improve the workflow.
- Large Screen for a richer UI experience.
- 12 Encoders to speed up tweaking of the sound engines.
While ZicGrid already has a strong base and working firmware, it’s more complex and expensive to build. Development is ongoing, but most efforts are currently focused on ZicPixel, so expect some rough edges.
Feeling adventurous? ZicBox is modular by design, so you can create your own hardware and custom UI layouts:
- Clone the repo and explore the different modules (UI, audio, hardware).
- Build a completely custom groovebox or drum machine suited to your needs.
This option gives you maximum flexibility, but keep in mind that interest has been lower in this area, so documentation and ready-made examples is limited.
git clone --recurse-submodules https://github.com/apiel/zicBox.git
cd zicBoxNote: If the repository has already been cloned but submodules are missing, run the following command to pull them:
git submodule update --init
👉 Whichever path you choose, ZicBox gives you a strong foundation to build music applications – from easy-to-assemble hardware to fully custom instruments.
More documentation here.
🎧 Built for musicians & developers
Example of old prototype:
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WyLNWE1CIYA&list=PLikTjJf4SwPpBYi4iVVPOwZ3j4N9gT0Sy
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLikTjJf4SwPpBYi4iVVPOwZ3j4N9gT0Sy