MATRIXSYNTH: EML ElectroComp 101 – Vintage Duophonic Semi-Modular Synthesizer


Friday, May 30, 2025

EML ElectroComp 101 – Vintage Duophonic Semi-Modular Synthesizer

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via this Reverb listing, also on eBay

"A rare and revered classic, the ElectroComp 101 was Electronic Music Laboratories’ evolution of the original ElectroComp 100—crafted by the Connecticut-based company known for its educational and experimental instruments. Released as a flexible alternative to the ARP 2600 and Minimoog, the EML-101 brought serious innovation to semi-modular design.

Unlike its contemporaries, the 101 featured four voltage-controlled oscillators—two of which operate sub-sonically for LFO duties—with morphable waveforms accessible via rotary selectors. It’s duophonic, allowing up to two-note polyphony, and provides a unique modulation architecture where control voltage and audio signals are treated interchangeably, offering highly creative patching possibilities.

A 12dB/oct multimode filter (low-pass, band-pass, and high-pass) with resonance adds tonal versatility, and the onboard ring/amplitude modulation, sample-and-hold (“Sampler”), and dual envelope generators give the 101 deep sound-shaping power. Thanks to its use of op-amps instead of temperature-sensitive transistors, the 101 also boasts impressive tuning stability compared to Moog or ARP synths of the era.

Designed with portability in mind, the unit folds neatly into its own wooden case, making it ideal for studio or stage use.

Originally marketed to universities and educational institutions, the EML-101’s modular flexibility, rich analog tone, and rock-solid build quickly caught the attention of professional musicians and sound designers, cementing its place as one of the most powerful portable synthesizers of the 1970s.

Features:

Polyphony: Duophonic

Oscillators: 4 VCOs (2 with sub-audio range; variable waveforms + noise)

Filter: Multimode 12dB/oct filter (low-pass, band-pass, high-pass) with resonance

Envelopes: 2 ADS generators

Effects: Ring/Amplitude Modulator, Sample-and-Hold

Modulation: Any CV or audio signal can be patched freely

Keyboard: 44-note

Control: CV/Gate compatible

A previously used item that shows signs of cosmetic wear but is fully operational and functions as intended—a vintage gem ready to inspire."

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