New EEE student project combines music and engineering for guitar pedal innovation

The Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering are excited to announce a new, student-created project - Sheffield Sound Systems. Undergraduate Electrical and Electronic Engineering student Hazem has been awarded funding from the department after putting forward an innovative idea that brings together sound engineering and electronics in an exciting new project. 

Sheffield Sound Systems is a dynamic and hands-on opportunity for students from the Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering to improve their skills while designing creative circuits to produce interesting sounds, working with musical instruments. EEE students who are interested in music will have an opportunity to apply their engineering knowledge to create their very own sound systems. The main highlights for the project for undergraduate students considering joining, as put forward by Hazem, include:

• Innovative Design: Imagine a pedal board where each pedal circuit is seamlessly integrated into a single physical unit. This ground-breaking design approach not only saves space but also allows for unparalleled flexibility in crafting your own unique sound.
   
• Sound Quality: Ever dreamed of improving your instrument's sound without breaking the bank? That's precisely what we're after. This project is all about engineering sound systems that deliver a crisp, powerful, and resonating auditory experience.
   
• Engineering Challenges: Tackle real-world engineering challenges head-on as you navigate the intricacies of circuit design, signal processing, and electronic integration. This project will expand your problem-solving skills and ignite your curiosity. 
   
• Collaborative Learning: You won't be in this alone. Join a community of like-minded engineers, collaborate with fellow students, and share insights that push the boundaries of sound engineering and electronics.
   
• Hands-On Experience: Theory is important, but practical skills are what set engineers apart. Improve your practical electronics skills by designing, developing, and testing your own circuits for sound systems. You will also gain the opportunity to learn some mechanical design when developing enclosures for your guitar pedals!

Hazem was inspired to put forward this project after he greatly enjoyed working on his own distortion pedal. He is now looking forward to getting stuck into the project, which will enable him to explore the possibilities in this area with a brilliant team made up of his fellow students.

I'm excited to introduce Sheffield Sound Systems, a new project dedicated to designing and building custom guitar effect pedals. This project stems from my passion for both music and electronics, along with a desire to create interesting sounds using innovative circuit design.

I'm grateful for the opportunity to start this project, which has been made possible by funding from the EEE department. This support will enable us to delve into the fascinating world of sound design and create pedals that resonate with musicians and enthusiasts alike.

Hazem KM Zied

MEng Electrical and Electronic 

The focus for the first year of the project will be to create a fully integrated guitar pedal board. The aim is for individual guitar pedals to become a building block within a single enclosure containing multiple circuits, allowing musicians to switch between effects seamlessly and sculpt their desired sound. There will also be lectures given on electronic design techniques typically used within sound engineering to provide those students taking part in the project with a base level of understanding. Hazem is also considering the inclusion of students from the University of Sheffield's music department at a later stage, providing an opportunity for engineering students and music students to work together to create the perfect tool for musicians.

When asked why students from EEE should take part in this new initiative, Hazem commented:

"This project isn't just about building a pedal board; it's about honing your skills, growing your knowledge, and gaining experience in the world of sound engineering. Whether you're just starting your degree or in your final year, Sheffield Sound Systems offers a unique chance to grow, innovate, and connect."

Undergraduate students from the Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering can get involved with the project through an email they'll be receiving on the 25 September 2023, where they can find out more about the project and how to apply through an introductory session on Monday 9 October.