MATRIXSYNTH: The Sonica


Saturday, August 18, 2007

The Sonica

Title link takes you to shots via this auction. Not mentioned in the auction, this features Serge components.
"This is definitely the first time 99% of you have ever seen this exceedingly rare instrument, and it is most likely that this will be the only opportunity to purchase one. No information is available online and only one other Sonica has ever been auctioned on eBay (approximately 4 years ago.) [Not Exactly]

This rare "portable self-contained synthesizer" as it is described within the original pamphlet (included), features "Sens-a-Touch, an electronic sensor that converts the pressure of your touch into creative musical tones and expressions."

For the lack of a better analogy, this instrument is most like a stylophone. However, the Sonica is more responsive, better sounding, more versatile, and seemingly effortless to manipulate. The Sonica features; volume control, key control, half-step pressure-pad function, tone pressure-pad function, and the slider pressure-pad function. The Soncia is powered by a 9v battery, has a built in speaker and features a mini-jack output ability.

The back of the headstock has a heart-shaped plate which typically has a serial number. This one has the plate without a number as I was told it is a prototype version. It is 1.5 octaves and still includes the original soft case and original booklet which is signed and dated 1979.

The Sonica works perfectly with the exception of the "key" control being temperamental, as such it is being sold "as is" with the belief that it is in need of repair. There are also several non-original screws which fasten the front brass plate to the lute-like body. Otherwise the Sonica is in great cosmetic condition with no breaks or significant originality issues.

The Sonica was designed by Frank Eventoff of Sound Instruments L.A., CA."

No comments:

Post a Comment

Note: comments that insult people will be removed. Critique on gear is allowed. Do not ask if listings are still available. Click through auction links to check yourself. Posts and pics remain for historical purposes. To reduce spam, comments for posts older than one week are not displayed until approved (usually same day).

PREVIOUS PAGE NEXT PAGE HOME



Switched On Make Synthesizer Evolution Vintage Synthesizers Creating Sound Fundlementals of Synthesizer Programming Kraftwerk

© Matrixsynth - All posts are presented here for informative, historical and educative purposes as applicable within fair use.
MATRIXSYNTH is supported by affiliate links that use cookies to track clickthroughs and sales. See the privacy policy for details.
MATRIXSYNTH - EVERYTHING SYNTH