Ep 1. Healing Drums, Raisins, Stereoscopic Viewers, and Ribbon Microphones

How It's Made season 13 episode 1 features a diverse range of products, including unique musical instruments, a popular snack, innovative technology, and specialized microphones. The episode starts by showing the making of Healing Drums, which are an important part of Native American culture and are believed to have therapeutic qualities. The drums are carefully crafted from rawhide and wood, with each drum having a unique sound and design.

Next up are Raisins, which are a popular snack produced through a careful drying process. The grapes are initially washed and de-stemmed, and then dehydrated to reduce their moisture content to about 16%. The raisins are then sorted, inspected, and packaged for distribution. The episode dives into the intricate process of creating raisins, which requires a delicate balance of time, temperature, and humidity.

Moving on from food to technology, the show then delves into the creation of Stereoscopic Viewers, which are often used to view 3D images. The process involves combining two separate images that are similar but have small differences to create a single image with the illusion of depth. This is done using a specially designed camera and viewer, which work together to create the 3D effect.

Finally, the episode concludes with a look at the making of advanced Ribbon Microphones, which efficiently convert sound waves into an electrical signal. Unlike other types of microphones, Ribbon Microphones feature a thin ribbon of metal that vibrates when sound waves pass through it. The ribbon generates a current that is then amplified and recorded. The complex manufacturing process includes several steps, including cutting and shaping the ribbon, installing the magnets, and assembling the microphone.

Overall, How It's Made season 13 episode 1 provides insight into the unique manufacturing processes behind some of the most interesting and innovative products. From food to technology to music, each segment explores the intricate steps required to produce high-quality, functional products. Viewers can gain a deeper appreciation for the hard work and skill that goes into manufacturing these items and may even come away with a better understanding of how everyday items are made.