Help - Buying theremin for partially sighted person

Posted: 1/29/2026 3:52:12 AM
yoyoyo

Joined: 1/29/2026

Howdy all, 

I'm seeking some advice on the best theremin to buy for my brother who is partially sighted. I've done a little bit of research and some models appear to be a little too technical and have small screens that are not ideal for someone who is legally blind. He mostly plays woodwind instruments however is also talented with the violin and that's his usual instrument of choice when performing. He has perfect pitch and will learn songs based on sound, not sheet music so I would like to get him an instrument that doesn't rely on sight to learn and play. The theremin seems like a fantastic way to challenge him in a new way. 

Basically, I'm looking for a theremin where operation doesn't revolve around being able to read small text and that's not an outrageous price considering he's a beginner to the instrument and is not guaranteed to love it and want to use it for performing. 

Any help finding one that fits this criteria would be greatly appreciated

Posted: 1/29/2026 4:38:16 AM
Trymeinchesss

Joined: 7/5/2025

The Burns b3 deluxe theremin only has two knobs two antennas and no screens. While I do not own one, I have heard good things about their sound, simplicity, and relatively low cost. There is a slightly smaller, cheaper version but longer is better so your hands are not cramped. 

The Open theremin v4 also does not have a screen, and many say they sound better than the b3 in my experience. However, I don't think they look as good ;-)

Overall I would go with a B3, but I'm not a theremin master or anything so feel free to take or leave my 2 cents.

Posted: 1/29/2026 5:58:13 AM
yoyoyo

Joined: 1/29/2026

Haha aesthetic is definitely important. I've just had a look at the Open V4 and it might be a little better for him because it seems to take up less room... Very much appreciate the 2 cents! 

Posted: 1/30/2026 1:01:04 AM
oldtemecula

From: 60 Miles North of San Diego, CA

Joined: 10/1/2014

YoYo,

I do not want to be a Debbie Downer but the ideal theremin design has not yet arrived. I am also legally blind from diabetes and must make the type on my laptop very large.

A beautiful theremin sound is much easier to play. Before all the the theremin imitations showed up an authentic theremin sounded like this…

Authentic Sound.mp3

I wish you the best

Christophe S Becker
Old Temecula

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