We were heading downtown the other day and passed by a collection of garage sale rejects that had been tossed to the curb with a "Free" sign. Christina saw a bicycle and Clover hasn't had a bike since we last relocated, so I figured I would check it out. It was red, pretty rugged looking, but I figured I could always paint it pink for her if it was in decent shape. Unfortunately, it was rusted pretty bad so we passed on it. As I was walking away I spotted a small keyboard, though.

It's a little white model made by Bontempi from 1985. I had never heard of the brand, but after a quick search on the internet it turns out that Bontempi was like the Casio of Italy. They produced basic consumer models with an occasional offering that caught the attention of professionals and enthusiasts. The model that I picked up for free, the T-100, is nothing spectacular. The sounds are pretty typical, but it has a decent little accompaniment that is pure 80's.

I found myself jamming and programming in some chords into the built in step sequencer in no time. I may just have to include some of it in my next release. At the least, this little keyboard is perfect circuit bending fodder. Inspiration happens in strange places, especially when the price is right.