Sort of OT - Controlling lights with audio signal

[primedynasty]

So I am embarking on a project for a show in February so I have lots of time to plan it.  I want to emulate this effect:

YouTube

So based on some preliminary research I believe that I will need to wire up an amplifier and send the signal out to a relay that will control power sockets which the lights will be plugged into.  I believe I need to use a solid state relay, or several.  So is the theory right so far?  I found on allaboutcircuits.com a write up about making a class b amp, and was hoping that would be a good road to pursue for the amp part.  The part that I really don't know, and I am sure will take some education is to learn what parts I need to use for the number of lights we want to use.  I imagine load will factor in at some point. 

This project is no doubt ambitious, but I am hoping with the time I have and some much needed help I should be able to make this happen.

[theundeadelvis]

Shouldn't be too difficult. I built something similar to what you're wanting to use as an applause-o-meter. The only difference is that in your use the relays would be hooked up more randomly. 

Here's mine in use: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DPuPyslm8xg

[theundeadelvis]

Mine is an audio amplifier feeding 2 LM3915 display drivers which in turn switch 10 S202S02 relays. Or you could just plug a bunch of lights into Clappers! 

[chilecocula]

Maybe piezoelectric sensors on each drum to generate signals to feed a PWM light intensity control system.

[davent]

Hello,
Back in high school, i won't give the years, a friend built something called a color organ that was hooked up to his stereo and turned colored lights on and off in time to the music. The colored lights were mounted in a box behind a piece of patterned plastic to give a diffused look to the lights, very groovy  

Googled color organ and found a kit that may be something like what he had built those many years ago.

http://www.goldmine-elec-products.com/prodinfo.asp?number=C4530

dave

[primedynasty]

the applause meter is really cool, and really well built.  What kind of amp did you use for it?

[theundeadelvis]

PM me your email and I can send you some info.

[R.G.]

http://www.swtpc.com/mholley/ElectronicsWorld/Apr1963/EW_Apr1963.htm

http://www.tinaja.com/glib/muse108.pdf