The Cardputer ADV has a real audio codec, a headphone jack, a mic and a motion sensor. Free firmware turns it into a pocket synth, a groovebox or a tracker. Here is what each one does and which to pick.
The short answer
Yes, the Cardputer ADV makes a real pocket synth. Play live with GLIDE (ours) or C.P.S.; program beats with MiniAcid or MicroGroove; track with Cardputer-Adv-Tracker. All free; most need the ADV.
- Why the ADV is a real music device
- GLIDE: the Cardputer synth that slides
- Other Cardputer music apps
- Which one should you use?
- How to install them
- FAQ
Why the Cardputer ADV is a real music device
New to synths? Read what a synthesizer is. Non-music apps live in our Cardputer ADV firmware guide.
GLIDE: the Cardputer synth that slides
GLIDE
Playable synth · Cardputer + ADVFull disclosure: this one is ours. GLIDE plays like a fretless string instrument: the key rows are strings and every note slides into the next. The firmware is free in Launcher's OTA list, or get one ready to play ($119.99, checked October 2026).
Hold shift for the notes in between; fn+K steps the key, fn+S the scale. Chords tapped on the bottom row loop one per bar while you solo above. alt is a loop pedal.
Other Cardputer music apps
| App | What it is · runs on |
|---|---|
| MicroGroove | Acid groovebox: 303-style synths, 808/909 drums, mic sampling. ADV |
| Cardputer Studio | Synth, sequencer, sampler and recorder in one. ADV |
| Cardputer-Adv-Tracker | Tracker with wavetable synths and drums. ADV |
| MiniAcid | Two 303-style voices, 808-style drums. Also on the web. ADV |
| C.P.S. | Playable synth, tilt, MIDI via Unit MIDI. ADV, original untested |
| beepBot DX | Mic sampler, 8-track sequencer, WAV export. Both |
| Bonnethead | Lofi 8-track drum machine. Original, ADV build in Launcher |
| M5Chord | MIDI chord controller, no sound of its own. Both |
From each README, checked October 2026. Tracker fan? See our chiptune guide.
Which Cardputer music app should you use?
Play it live
- Slide, scale lock, find a song's key: GLIDE
- Classic synth knobs and MIDI out: C.P.S.
- Chords for an external synth: M5Chord
Program patterns
- Instant acid: MiniAcid or MicroGroove
- Samples and songs: Cardputer Studio or beepBot DX
- Tracker workflow: Cardputer-Adv-Tracker
How to install Cardputer music apps
- Install Launcher once to keep several apps.
- Tap a key at the splash, open OTA, join WiFi, pick an app.
- To switch apps, press BTN RST, then tap a key.
MicroGroove and Cardputer Studio were not in Launcher's catalog; flashing their full images replaces Launcher.
FAQ
Can a Cardputer be a synthesizer?
Yes. Free firmware such as GLIDE, C.P.S., MiniAcid and MicroGroove turns an M5Stack Cardputer into a pocket synth or groovebox. The Cardputer ADV suits it best, with an ES8311 audio codec, a 3.5 mm headphone jack, a MEMS mic and a BMI270 motion sensor.
Does GLIDE work on the original Cardputer?
Yes, GLIDE runs on the original Cardputer (v1.1) and the ADV. Auto Key is ADV only because it needs the ADV's mic, and tilt needs a motion sensor, which only the ADV has. Most other music apps in this guide are ADV only.
Can a Cardputer synth do MIDI?
Some can. C.P.S. connects to external MIDI gear through M5Stack's Unit MIDI, and M5Chord turns a Cardputer into a MIDI chord controller that makes MIDI, not sound. GLIDE's documentation does not list MIDI; it is a self-contained instrument.
Is GLIDE free?
Yes. The GLIDE firmware is free to download and play under a noncommercial license, and it is in Launcher's OTA list. We also sell Cardputer ADVs with GLIDE already installed.
Does GLIDE have a drum machine?
No. GLIDE is a playable instrument with a chord jam row, a loop pedal and a metronome, but no drum sounds. For beats, use a groovebox such as MiniAcid, MicroGroove or Bonnethead, and keep both with Launcher.
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