Thoughtful Things launches Kickstarter campaign for AI sampler Engram

Music startup Thoughtful Things has launched the Kickstarter campaign for its first instrument, Engram. The sampler and groovebox does not rely on the internet: it runs a “tiny AI” locally to alter incoming audio and generate unexpected new sounds, focusing on experimental sound design rather than radio-ready music. The company says its models were designed in-house and trained on open datasets containing only audio licensed for commercial use.

Thoughtful Things also plans to open Engram’s firmware so users can modify it or load their own models. The campaign offers a limited run starting at $675; the retail price has not been announced, but The Verge estimates it will be between $850 and $900, based on the 30 percent discount listed for that pledge.