Ben&Stelios@KSYMENov2025

video upload by Schema Musicalis

"Ben Roidl-Ward: bassoon - Stelios Giannoulakis: EMS Synthi100
Free Improvisation at ΚΣΥΜΕ/CMRC, Athens 27 Nov 2025

A frequency-to-voltage converter and two envelope followers allow Ben's bassoon to drive voices from the synth, while Stelios radically adjusts parameters and adds elements with the joysticks, the faders, and the other controls. No other sources or effects were used.

Recognized by the Washington Post as one of the artists “changing the sound of classical music,” Ben Roidl-Ward stands out for his technical and expressive versatility. He is an Associate Professor of Bassoon at the University of Illinois and Principal Bassoonist in three symphony orchestras. He collaborates with the Ensemble Dal Niente and the Lucerne Festival and has participated in over 180 premieres. He studied at Northwestern, Rice, and Oberlin, mentored by prominent bassoonists. On 27 November 2025, together with the Composer Niki Charlafti, Ben visited CMRC to present the project Building Bridges. Stelios Giannoulakis is a Greek composer and engineer playing with modular and circuit-bent devices. While teaching Electroacoustic Composition and Creative Music Technology at ΚΣΥΜΕ, he has been fortunate to become familiar with the historic EMS Synthi100 analog synthesizer.

from the event:
'Tο ΚΣΥΜΕ φιλοξενεί τον Αμερικάνο φαγκοτίστα Ben Roidl-Ward (Assistant Professor of Bassoon at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign) και την Ελληνίδα συνθέτρια Νίκη Χαρλάφτη (PhD in Composition and Music Technology, Northwestern University) με το project Building Bridges. Παρουσίαση και συζήτηση πάνω στην δημιουργική και εκπαιδευτική προσέγγιση της ομάδας, εκτέλεση έργων για σόλο φαγκότο των Μηχάλη Παρασκάκη, Στρατή Μηνανάκη και Νίκου Χαριζάνου, αυτοσχεδιασμός με το EMS Synthi100 από τον Ben Roidl-Ward και τον Στέλιο Γιαννουλάκη. Το Building Bridges έχει σκοπό την ανάθεση, εκτέλεση και προώθηση τολμηρών νέων έργων για φαγκότο από Έλληνες συνθέτες σε διεθνές επίπεδο, όπως και την εκπαίδευση και διασύνδεση διαφορετικών ομάδων ακροατών'"

Very early Synthi A -1971! s/n 4118

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this Vemia listing

Click the auction link on top when you get there for additional listings.

Pic of the inside below.

"This auction is for an original 1971 Mk1 EMS Synthi A synthesiser, serial number 4118, in its Spartanite case. The case has a few marks and scratches as befitting a 55 year old instrument, but no chips or breaks. The latches, although showing some corrosion, work perfectly.
The Synthi front panel is one of the cleanest we’ve seen, being almost immaculate with virtually no panel marks and, unusually, no writing or marking absent or worn from the screen printing. In addition this example comes with the early chrome mirror finish knobs.

The internals are extremely clean and original with no modifications (see photo#4 now under the wrong thumbnail) and the unit has the genuine GE PA234 audio amplifier devices for the outputs and reverb.

The unit has been fully tested by one of the three or four people in the world who can call themselves EMS experts. It has been aligned and found to be working perfectly, and consequently given the original condition of the unit, no capacitors have been replaced. The original ones are working fine and show no signs of leakage or decay. However while the existing pots are electrically good with no scratchiness, some are a mechanically stiffer than current production models and the buyer might wish to have these replaced. This can be done at additional cost either here in the UK by EMS experts Lucid or by the buyer’s own engineer.

The Synthi comes with a full set of 20 patch pins and a new UK 240VAC mains lead (not shown). (Observant viewers may notice the absence of the usual Synthi A plastic name plate which usually adorns the outer case. This isn’t missing, but was simply never fitted as there are no holes for it, perhaps because of the early serial number. In addition the rear case is attached by four factory fitted screws and bushings, rather than the more usual arrangement of three)."

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Three Phutney EMS clone PCBs, Tuned

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via this Vemia listing

Click the auction link on top when you get there for additional listings.

"Set of Three Phutney PCB Cards – EMS VCS3 / Synthi A Clone A set of three fully built Phutney PCB cards for the EMS VCS3 / Synthi A. These are the highly regarded clone boards designed by Derek Revell, widely considered among the most accurate reproductions available for anyone wishing to recreate one of these classic synthesizers, or to replace cards in an original EMS instrument.

The boards were professionally assembled by an experienced audio engineer, using new old stock germanium and silicon transistors to get as close as possible to the character of the original EMS circuitry.

They have been extensively tested and calibrated in my 1975 EMS Synthi AKS. My original intention was to use them to build a VCS3 “Cloney”-style synth, but that project never materialised.

During testing, resistor values were carefully adjusted until the cards performed and sounded indistinguishable from the original EMS circuit boards.

The sale also includes: • Header and PCB solder-in edge connectors to simplify wiring during a build • A set of blue edge connectors with solder tags if you prefer the more traditional “old-school” wiring approach

All three boards are fully populated, tested, and confirmed working. As mentioned, they were bench-tested and run inside a working EMS Synthi AKS, allowing direct comparison with original EMS cards during calibration.

If you are planning to build a vintage EMS-style synthesizer, this is an excellent starting point, as the boards are already assembled, tested, and carefully tuned to match the performance and sound of a 1975 Synthi A / VCS3."

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EMS Synthi AKS Mk2, 1975 w/ Docs & 7" Record

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this Vemia listing

Click the auction link on top when you get there for additional listings.

"A superb and highly original EMS Synthi AKS Mk2, manufactured in 1975, in full working order and very nice cosmetic condition as shown in the photos. The aluminium front panel is in excellent shape and fitted with the original vernier dials, which have developed a lovely natural patina with age and use. The Spartanite briefcase is also in very good condition and retains the correct EMS London badge.
This is a genuine, unmodified example that retains its original character and components, something that is becoming increasingly difficult to find. It has clearly been a well-loved and carefully maintained instrument. I have owned it for the past 11 years, but it’s now time for it to move on to someone who will give it the use it deserves.

The Synthi A itself has been recently serviced by a professional vintage synth technician, and the KS sequencer was serviced four months ago by Robin Wood at EMS in Cornwall, ensuring everything is functioning exactly as it should.

Included with the synth: • Extra patch pins • Original Synthi–KS sequencer umbilical cable (excellent condition) • UK mains cable • Two keys for the Spartanite case so it can be locked — a great security feature… after all, no one would think of stealing a locked briefcase synth!

Also included is an excellent collection of original EMS documentation and ephemera, which is becoming increasingly difficult to find with surviving instruments: • Original EMS user manual, bound for protection • EMS 7' 33rpm demonstration record with cover • Original guarantee form (unused — unfortunately the manufacturer’s warranty has now expired!) • Several original EMS leaflets for the Synthi, VCS3 and Synthi 100 & Synthi Hi-Fli • Unused patch cards from 1975, in two different formats • Original 1975 EMS price list • An unbound copy of the Synthi Educational Handbook

Overall this is a beautifully preserved and highly original Synthi AKS Mk2, complete with period accessories and documentation — something that is becoming increasingly rare.

If you are looking for an authentic EMS instrument with real provenance and ready to continue making extraordinary sounds for decades to come, this is a wonderful example. Serial Number: 45104KS"

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EMS Synthi AKS _vintage 100% serviced

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via this Vemia listing

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One pic of the inside below.

EMS Synthi AKS!

* Vintage original. Fully serviced and restored! *

Original Synthi from the 70's with KS keyboard sequencer & cables.
The Synthi and KS have been together from new so they have matching serial numbers.

Recently serviced by specialized EMS tech. Ready for another future!

Nice condition. See pictures and make sure to click 'expand' and scroll for full detail.
Just ask if you'd like larger pictures or details.

Here's a list of the mods and extensive work done:

--------------------------------------
Caps replaced
Trimmers replaced
Vernier dials replaced : 3x
Envelope lamp replaced
Filter slew/unslew (push-pull)
Trapezoid polarity switch
VC Waveshape of Osc 1 and 2 via reverb mix column
Osc sync 3x + sync amount pots
Osc3 hi/lo range
Portamento
KS service
Calibrated
--------------------------------------

Fully working and technically great original Synthi AKS. This is a real instrument!
The recap, new trimmers and verniers should keep it going smooth for many years.
The very useful mods like Osc sync, portamento, envelope ±, controlled waveshape make it so much more versatile! Filter slew/unslew also a must on Synthi's. :)"

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EMS Synthi A

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via this Vemia listing

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"A brand new Synthi A. Shipped Dec 2024 by EMS Cornwall after 4 years on the waiting list. Mods done by Robin Wood of EMS: - Oscillator stabilisation on Osc. 3 - Dual transistor upgrade for Osc3 if Hi/lo fitted - Oscillator Sync on Osc2 – variable with depth pot - VC Shape fitted to Osc2 and Osc3 - Hi/Lo frequency range - switchable (on all three oscillators) - X10 Envelope Attack/Decay time multiplier - 10-turn pot on Input Channel 1 - Centre-zero trapezoid - Patchable voltage inverter - Filter unslew switchable - Papageorgiadis Sample & Hold Built in a (vintage) Spartanite case (+ matching keys) and including all EMS documents (manual, invoice)."

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EMS clone Cloney Synthey and DKS

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this Vemia listing

Click the auction link on top when you get there for additional listings.

"It is complete with DKS keyboard and has been recently serviced by the clone circuit designer Derek Revell. It has a gate input modification but apart from that is unmodified."

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Djangosfire Buchla Patch: Pulsing Din & Texture

video upload by djangosfire

"Spent the afternoon playing in the studio today, did a little bit of patching with the 'Buchla' came up with this improv … thought I’d share! Djangosfire Buchla Patch: 'Pulsing Din & Texture' Cheers to sonic exploration! Thank you, Adam Scramstad"

The Extraordinary EMS Synthi 100

video upload by Alex Ball

"A look at an incrediblY rare synthesizer from 1971.

Enormous thanks to the Townshend Studio and the University of West London for this opportunity.

https://www.uwl.ac.uk/study/study-fac...

Malcolm Clarke demonstrates the Synthi 100 sequencer as discussed in the video: [below]

0:00 Intro Performance
2:31 History of EMS
12:22 Music Interlude 1
13:46 Guided Tour of the Synthi 100
19:16 Music Interlude 2
21:48 The Vocoder 5000
24:59 The Digital Sequencer
25:49 The Townshend Studio
26:48 Summary & Thanks
27:36 Patreon Outro Performance"

The New Sound Of Music - 1979 - (Full Documentary) (BEATS T.V)

video upload by BEATS TV

Tubbutec MC-2oh2 sample player on channel 3 #tubbutec #mc2oh2

video upload by analogia pl

"One thing that’s not discussed enough - or is even criminally underrated - is the third channel in the Tubbutec MC-2oh2. On paper, it’s just a simple sample player, coming with a factory-loaded set of TR-606-like drum sounds that are still fun and effective to jam along to.

With the MC-202 Hack software (but also possible via SysEx), it’s a breeze to upload your own samples -or rather, sound snippets.

That’s precisely what I’m doing here. I took pre-recorded snippets of vocoder-processed sounds and uploaded them into the 2oh2. It’s already fun just to play them, but here comes another smart function of the 2oh2: midifiers. Each sample can be filtered, slowed down, reversed, and/or accented. It’s an endless source of experimentation and inspiration."

Nice EMS Vocoder 1000 in back.

SWITCHTRIX ELECTRONICS SYNTHE 'A100' KS SEQUENCER/SYNTHI A

video upload by SWITCHTRIX ELECTRONICS

"A quick test of the ks sequencer with some funky hi hats generated synth the SYNTHE 'A100' ring mod."

Psychedelic Tabla Buchla Jam 02 24 2026

video upload by djangosfire

Modules used in this patch:
Soundfreak Triple Oscillator
MEMS: 266, 292c
Mike Peake Custom 190 Dual Reverb
EMS: 277, 207, 281, 256, 257, 246
Source of Uncertainty 219
Recorded live - Cheers to music and sonic exploration! Thank you, Adam Scramstad

EMS VCS3 Cornwall Modifications

video upload by Rhythmicons

"Some of you might want to get your VCS3 modded. This is part one in a series of videos showing the ones that I have added to mine. Shown is the Voltage Controlled Waveshaper and the Variable Oscillator Sync."

EMS Universal Sequencer Playlist

video uploads by analogia pl

A few of these have been featured on the site before. You can use the player controls to skip around.

Playlist:

1. EMS Synthi with Universal Sequencer and RSF Kobol #emssynthi #rsfkobol #rolandph830

It’s a tune done on the Synthi and EMS Universal Sequencer with some help from RSF Kobol processed by Roland PH-830 phaser.

2. 2 x EMS Universal Sequencer with Roland MC-202 #emssynthi #emsuniversalsequencer #mc202

Universal Sequencer is playing a sequence on the Synthi and the 202 - that’s why it’s called “universal” as both sequence and real time layers have CV/gate outputs. No effects other than spring reverb on the Synthi.

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SWITCHTRIX ELECTRONICS SYNTHE A100

video upload by SWITCHTRIX ELECTRONICS

"A cheesy groove with some twisted ring mod lead.

For more info contact

mail@switchtrix.co.uk

www.switchtrix.co.uk"

Songlines (soundscape) for Arp 2600, VCS3 and Gong

video upload by R. Reger

"Original soundscape for analogue instruments."

EMS Rehberg Synthesizer Audio Demo

video upload by Edwin Kiddo

SWITCHTRIX ELECTRONICS SYNTHE A100 MK2/SYNTHI

video upload by SWITCHTRIX ELECTRONICS

"A new configuration of the matrix features 2 16 x 16 matrices.
One for audio and the other for control voltages.

Inputs and outputs are now brought out to 3.5mm jack sockets on the front panel with all inputs featuring an attenuaverter.

For more info contact

mail@switchtrix.co.uk"

Semiqiuncentennial Tension

video upload by Rhythmicons

"An EMS VCS3 does a throbbing drone. The Moog Model 10 is sequenced by a synthesizers dotcom q960/q119 with a little help from the Mos-Lab envelope.

The Serge comprised of licensed circuits by Elby Designs, Catgirl Synth, all lovingly paneled and assembled by Rich at Lower West Side Studios of Canada. There is a Buchla clone of a Source of Uncertainty module assembled and paneled by Jason Fry of Free State FX that is randomizing various parts of an M401 Multimode (Arp 1047 clone) also built by LWSS.
From the 401, the audio heads to the Analog Craftsman Gristleizer. The result is a little rhythmic bubbling.

The title is a nod to Tricky’s Pre-millennium Tension album but nevertheless reflective of the current zeitgeist.

But hey, no sirens this time!

In the meantime I crave my own."

"Hidden Elevator" Buchla / Késako / SoundFreak Modular system 🎛️✨

video upload by Stephano Gavilanes

"A 16-step sequence on the Buchla 246 with a new addition, the Késako Player! 👌🏽

Both Buchla 284 and @synththomas 292 are also sharing the spotlight, then going into @soundfreakmodular Dual filter, @the_mems_project 291 filter and Buchla 296e

Hope you enjoy it! 🤙🏼

Music composed and recorded by Stephano Gavilanes.© Copyright 2026. All rights reserved."