Sprachpümpe Mark III (Speechpump)

2023

Concept by Jonathan Sterne, design and production by Alexis Emelianoff

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Jonathan Sterne was a professor at McGill University and a prolific writer and lecturer. An episode with thyroid cancer left him with a paralyzed vocal cord and reduced speaking capacity, so he needs an assistive device to help project his voice. He disliked the previous commercial versions, calling them 'Dorkophones', so my task was to imagine a better solution.

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Two birdseye maple panels are driven by tactile transducers, forming flat speakers. The electronics box contains a mic preamp and a power amp for the speakers. 

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Jonathan has sadly passed away in March 2025, following a recurrence of the cancer. He was brilliant and highly respected for his work and personality. 

I hope the next version of the Sprachpümpe can benefit others with similar medical conditions, as well as performers. 

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