DI Box

A handcrafted direct injection box — a compact, AC-powered audio preamplifier designed for dynamic microphones, capable of cleanly converting mic-level signals to standard line-level output (-10dBV).

Features:

• Class A FET input stage with high linearity and extended bandwidth
• XLR input with adjustable gain
• Balanced or unbalanced line-level output
• Low noise, low distortion performance
• Wide frequency response

🎙️ Motivation & Design Approach

While trying to record audio using a Shure SM58 dynamic microphone directly into a Mac’s line-in jack, I encountered the usual issues: low gain, poor signal-to-noise ratio, and uninspiring tone. So, I decided to build my own solution — a clean, simple preamplifier with tone characteristics I personally enjoy.

Crafting the Leaflet: A Night at Bar dello Sport

It all began with a casual evening at Bar dello Sport in Serramonacesca, sipping on the iconic Italian drink—Campari Soda—amid the warm embrace of local hospitality. Conversations drifted freely among friends and locals, and an idea sparked: designing a unique promotional poster for an upcoming jam session night sponsored by Campari. Fueled by inspiration (and a few rounds of drinks), I eagerly offered my skills as a graphic designer to craft the flyer.

Back To The Future

This is a semi-serious rendition of the story behind the making of this project —
a replica of the Time Circuits from Back to the Future, turned into a talking alarm clock.

Aside from actual time travel (which may or may not be possible depending on your time zone, ISP, and your ability to construct a flux capacitor), it works beautifully as a nostalgic gadget, delivering iconic quotes from the film.

A mighty Theremin build from an open source project powered by an Arduino UNO.

This video is the official behind-the-scenes documentary filmed in Los Angeles during the recording sessions of A Vision, an original jazz album by Italian vocalist, educator, and composer Lorena Fontana. I had the opportunity to fully edit and assemble the video, and the result reflects the intimate, professional, and collaborative atmosphere that only top-tier musicians in LA can create.

The Project

Recorded at the renowned studio of Dennis Moody, the production captures the magic of live jazz performance while blending modern vocal arrangements with traditional acoustic instrumentation.

Fire Makers – Metal Empire

In 2005, during a gap between travels and projects, I had the chance to collaborate as a guest keyboardist for an independent metal band named Fire Makers. They were in the process of recording their debut album Metal Empire, and I was invited to contribute organ, piano, and synthesizer parts on several tracks.

It turned out to be an electrifying and high-adrenaline experience. What struck me most was the stunning voice of their lead vocalist at the time—none other than Eugent Bushpepa, who would later rise to prominence on international stages.