TL;DR
German experimental musician Hainbach shares his memories of playing Breath of the Wild with his kids and explains his fondness for Swiss Army Knives. He also discusses his creative process and favorite tools.
German experimental musician and YouTuber Hainbach revealed in a recent interview that playing Breath of the Wild with his children during the pandemic was a meaningful experience, and that his favorite tool remains a Swiss Army Knife.
Hainbach, known for his unconventional music techniques using vintage and scientific equipment, discussed his personal connection to the video game Breath of the Wild, which he played with his children during the pandemic. He described the emotional impact of completing the game and his daughter’s dedication to fully mastering it. Additionally, he emphasized his long-standing affection for Swiss Army Knives, which he uses both in daily life and on stage to repair his equipment. The musician also shared insights into his creative process, including his use of passive bandpass filters and self-made plugins, as well as his frustrations with AI-generated music tools.
The interview also touched on his favorite gadgets, his approach to overcoming creative blocks, and his latest projects, including a self-destructing musical series called Destruction Loops. Hainbach highlighted the importance of deliberate movements during performances, a lesson learned from his early rock band days, and expressed his desire to focus on analog sound and tactile tools.
Why Hainbach’s Personal Stories Matter
This interview offers a rare glimpse into the personal life and creative philosophy of a respected experimental artist. His reflections on playing Breath of the Wild with his children highlight the emotional power of video games, while his attachment to Swiss Army Knives underscores his appreciation for practical, durable tools that embody craftsmanship. These insights can inspire fans and fellow musicians to value meaningful experiences and tactile craftsmanship in an increasingly digital world. Additionally, his critique of AI music tools adds to ongoing debates about technology’s role in creativity, making his perspective relevant for both artists and tech developers.
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Hainbach’s Musical and Personal Background
Stefan Paul Goetsch, known as Hainbach, is a German experimental composer and YouTuber renowned for his use of laboratory and vintage gear, often described as the ‘Dark Souls of synthesis.’ His prolific output in 2025 included six albums, collaborations, and a wide array of experimental techniques. His YouTube channel explores obscure gear, experimental music, and modern tools like plugins from AudioThing. Known for his meticulous approach and love for tactile tools, Hainbach emphasizes the importance of physical devices, such as Swiss Army Knives, in his creative and everyday life.
He has also shared personal stories about his favorite gadgets, his experiences with video games like Breath of the Wild, and his views on current tech trends, including AI-generated music, which he criticizes for lacking the skill and joy of traditional craftsmanship.
“Playing Breath of the Wild with my kids during the pandemic was a moment of joy and connection that I will never forget.”
— Hainbach
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Unclear Aspects of Hainbach’s Future Projects
It is not yet confirmed what specific projects Hainbach will pursue next or how his recent reflections will influence his future work. Details about upcoming releases or collaborations remain undisclosed.
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Upcoming Releases and Creative Directions
Hainbach is expected to continue exploring analog and tactile tools, possibly releasing new experimental music projects. Fans and followers can anticipate further insights into his creative process through upcoming videos and performances, though specific plans have not been announced.
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Key Questions
What is Hainbach’s connection to Breath of the Wild?
He played the game with his children during the pandemic, describing it as a meaningful family experience that brought joy and emotional closure.
Why does Hainbach favor Swiss Army Knives?
He values their practicality and durability, using them for repairs and stage work, and considers them his most useful gadget since childhood.
What are Hainbach’s views on AI music tools?
He criticizes them for lacking the craftsmanship, patience, and joy associated with traditional music-making, and wishes they would disappear.
What is the significance of his Destruction Loops project?
It is an installation piece that self-destructs over time, used by Hainbach to process online hate comments and negative emotions creatively.
What tools does Hainbach consider essential for his music?
His Nagra reel-to-reel tape recorder and passive bandpass filters are among his favorites, reflecting his focus on analog and tactile equipment.
Source: The Verge
