DIY Motor for Vibraphone Vibrato

The vibraphone is a staple percussion instrument of many concert and jazz band programs across the country both in high schools, and in more professional settings. However, a large feature of what makes the vibraphone unique compared to other percussion instruments is often overlooked. The fans that sit on each resonator can be spun with a motor to create a vibrato effect. But, in many settings this feature is simply inaccessible due to lack of funding for professionally made vibraphone motors, and inconvenience of needing the instrument to be plugged in while using the vibrato effect. Professionally made vibraphone motors can cost upward of 500$ each, which is far too expensive for many band programs. This simple DIY alternative, solves many of these issues.

Before we get into the main supplies, For this tutorial you'll need access to a 3D printer, as well as a CAD program. I used Fusion 360.

1. a 12 volt DC motor. I used this one from Amazon but as long as the size fits your needs and the RPM fits your needs you should be okay. Generally you wont need to go any higher than 150 RPM so I would recommend buying one in that range.
2. a DC motor speed controller. I used this one from Amazon but there are other options which keep the dial separate from the main board. Pay attention to the voltage when purchasing these and when you use it make sure you are using the correct voltage to power it so it doesn't become overloaded.
3. a rechargeable 12 volt battery. I used this one from Amazon as it came with a DC output and a charging cable but there are many other options of different capacities, just make sure you get a 12 volt battery .
4. Wire. I used this 18 AWG wire from Amazon but if you already have wire I would use whatever you have on hand if the gauge assuming the gauge is close enough.
5. Electrical tape. I used this to do all the wiring, but if you have experience with soldering then I would recommend doing that. I do not have any experience with soldering so I didn't bring it up in this Instructable.
6. 2 rubber bands. One is needed for each set of bars on the vibraphone.

You'll need some CAD experience for this part, But the main goal is just to make a small box capable of accommodating motor controller and the motor with holes for mounting the motor, the port, and the dial. Above I have a basic sketch for mounting the motor, and also a small piece to hold the motor controller in place by expanding its base. For designing the spool keep the barrel of the spool small and account for the size and shape of the axle on the motor.

Assembly is pretty simple after printing the parts. Just trim the wires to the appropriate length, connect them to the motor and controller with electrical tape, and put everything inside the casing. I kept the battery separate so I can easily recharge the battery without removing the whole system whenever I needed a recharge.

You can simply tape the casing to the vibraphone and use rubber bands to connect the spool to the small spools on the end of each next of fans on the Vibraphone. This is a good semi-permanent solution and it also leaves the option open for a more permanent mount in the future depending on your brand of vibraphone.

Simply twist the dial to your desired amount and enjoy the vibrato as you play when pedaling.