The Chiptune Guide for Parents and the Uninitiated

So, you're new to the concept of chipmusic.

Welcome! If you're here, you're probably looking for some answers. This page will lay out the basics for you.

Chipmusic is, to put it as simply as possible, music created with vintage computing and gaming equipment. Think 1980s and 1990s. Commodore 64s, Amigas, Nintendo Entertainment Systems (NES), and Ataris. Here at Nonfinite Electronics, we specialize in the Nintendo Game Boy, A.K.A. Dot Matrix Game Boy, or "DMG", for short. The DMG is generally regarded as one of the superior consoles for making chipmusic due to it's distinct sound qualities, it's high level of portability, and also the software available. There are many different ways of composing music in this genre. Nonfinite Electronics in no way intends to imply that the DMG is the end-all, beat-all of chiptune, chipmusic, video game music, or whatever you choose to call it! We do, however, find that's it's an excellent platform for both a beginning musician as well as an advanced user for several reasons.

First, it's portability and ease of use. Let's face it. A more accessible instrument will typically be used more often than an inaccessible one. This is probably why you'll see infinitely more people playing the harmonica, or the guitar, than an accomplished harpsichord player.

Second, it's versatility. The Game Boy has four separate channels, capable of generating four different sounds, or "voices" simultaneously. One of these channels can actually be programmed to alter it's sound qualities quite drastically, making it a flexible instrument.

Third, it's software. Perhaps the most popular chiptune composition software of all time, Little Sound DJ (LSDJ) was written with the Nintendo Game Boy specifically in mind. This program, commonly known as a tracker, processes musical data over a period of time in a manner that is somewhat similar to that of present day sequencing software found on computers, such as Logic, Cubase, Fruityloops, Ableton Live, etc.

OK, but why chiptunes? Why shouldn't I just play guitar?

That depends. Personally, I find myself drawn to chipmusic for several reasons. First, I find it's limitations useful. Oftentimes, someone new to the world of musical composition will sit down in front of a computer with a new program loaded up, or pick up an instrument, and then say, "Alright, now what?" Modern day technology is incredibly vast and varied, to the point where most initiates get overwhelmed by the options at their hands. One of the beautiful things about chipmusic is that it takes away this confusing, "Now what" feeling, at least at first. Many seasoned musicians in this group find the limitations of their instruments and the challenge to stretch those limitations to find new sounds very inspiring.

Second, chipmusic has a focus on composition first and performance second. Don't be fooled into thinking that all musicians are alike! We each have our strengths. While some musicians find themselves drawn the the performance aspect of music, others choose to write, and still others do both. Chiptune is very open to the musician who would like to both compose and perform, which makes it an outstanding starting point for someone interested in writing music of their own.

It's inexpensive. A beginner can get everything they need to start writing music for well under $60. There aren't many instruments that can be had these days for such a small amount of money.

It's unique. How many people do you know who play guitar? Piano? Bass? Drums? Now, how many people do you know that write their own music? Of those, how many compose chipmusic? Many of us are unique individuals who take pride in our differing tastes.

But what IS chipmusic, exactly?

I'll tell you what it isn't first (and this is the part that so many people in the media get wrong.) Chipmusic and chiptune is NOT a musical genre. It's a means of creating any kind of music you like! Think of it like an instrument, such as a violin. You can play jazz violin, participate in a quartet, be in a philharmonic orchestra, perform in a bluegrass band... it's the same for composing with a DMG. The instrument is limited, not the application.

Now, as for what it IS... defining chipmusic can be hard. Some will say it's strictly limited to music made with the aforementioned vintage computing and gaming equipment, or, to put it in other words, some would say chipmusic is music made by utilizing the sound chips found in these items. Others would say that chipmusic can be viewed as any type of composition that features a sound that is characteristic of something created with a vintage sound chip. Personally, I find myself of the mind that it's any music that's central focus is on the chiptune element of the song itself, not taking into consideration whatever else is present. As you can see, the definition is a bit transparent. I encourage you find your own definition as you experience what the community has to offer.

Where should I begin?

My personal recommendation would be to get yourself a cartridge and a DMG. I find that the easier an instrument is to use, the more likely I am to use it, (obviously.) As such, I recommend a Pro backlit DMG and a USB cartridge. If you're on a budget, you can find Do It Yourself Kits and pre-loaded carts at my shop as well. Also, be sure to check out 8bitcollective. It's a great resource for beginning musicians.

What is a Cart?

'Cart' is short for cartridge. It's a game cartridge loaded with special software (be it LSDJ or something else that) that when loaded into the Game Boy, runs a program that allows you to write music. Almost all of the carts available for musical purposes have a save function built in as well, so you can both run your special software and save your songs on the cart. From there, you can back up your song/save data by using a transferer or a cart specifically designed to allow for a connection to your computer. At this point, things get a bit more technical. If you need more information, head on over to the FAQ section.

I hope you have found this starting guide useful! Welcome!