Adventures in Audio - Talking Typewriter

video upload by Manitou Productions

"Today we look at the Talking Typewriter by Petite, circa 1981. What does it do? How does it sound? And what's rattling around inside...? Let's find out!

Chapters:
0:00 What's rattling?
0:12 Titles
0:20 Leaking batteries
1:01 Cleaning the battery terminals
3:52 New batteries
4:55 Power on!
6:00 It speaks the letters
7:42 I try to spell some words
12:52 It speaks the numbers
14:19 Some revelations
15:33 I attempt to open it up
17:13 It keeps its secrets for today
18:29 Outro
18:52 Ivy's Corner"

Pearl Pk-701 Ultrarare Polyphonic Keyboard Synth

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

via this Reverb listing

This appears to be the first post to feature the Pearl Pk-701.

"Extremely rare synth by Pearl, produced in very limited numbers with very little documentation available online.

It resembles an Italian-style string machine with piano, string, and brass sounds, featuring a beautiful chorus and vibrato. In reality, it’s a true 8-voice polyphonic synthesizer with an absolutely beautiful sound.

Cosmetically is in great condition, unfortunately, there are no schematics available, and I haven’t been able to tune the individual voices. Each voice has 4 potentiometers, but without documentation, it’s difficult to tune everything properly.

All the voice boards work perfectly, although the slot for board 2 doesn’t output piano sounds on the assigned note."

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Teac Rhythm 8 Vintage Drum Machine Rhythm SN 908

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

via this Reverb listing

This appears to be the first one to be featured on the site.

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Aries Modular Synthesizer Catalog

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

via this eBay listing

"Aries Music 1978 Catalog. Aries Modular synthesizer information across a 12 page catalog (cover to cover). Cool pics of 4 Aries modular systems and pics/specifications of the modules. Also Extra separate 6 sheets (double sided) on Aries synthesizer module kits. Good condition, however minor scuff, slight corner crinkle, has punch holes, no missing pages, intact, no writing, no highlights, no stains. Awesome vintage analog synthesizer literature for the studio library. Time keeps on slipping into the future."

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Optonica MX-1000 1970s Mixer / Analog Reverb / Rhythm Machine

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

via this Reverb listing

This looks more like an amp than a mixer. The built-in rhythm machine gets the post. This would be a fun item to show off in the studio. "Check out my new amp", then flick on the rhythm section, or route a sequence running on your other gear through it with the volume down, then say "I wonder what's on the radio", mute your main mixer and switch over to the Optonica, "Oh it's me!"

"The MX-1000 is an extremely rare product, it is a mixer, an analog reverb unit & a pre-programmed rhyrhm machine.

Warm-sounding reverb, deep sinking echoes, and saturation sounds unique to analog mixers.
Rhythm machine sound like Roland CR-78.
You can listen to these wonderful sounds on youtube.

Features :
Inputs
- 2ch Microphone
- Phono
- Aux
Reverb / Echo effects
Pre-programmed rhythm machine (Waltz, Rock, Cha Cha, Latin, Ballad, Mambo, Foxtrot & Waltz Rock)"

This is the first post to feature the MX-1000. Curios what the rhythm circuits are based on.

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Modified DIGIAC 4010 Logic Trainer SN 1007

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

via this eBay listing

This appears to be the first post to feature DIGIAC.

"This was originally a logic trainer for education but I re-purposed it as a logic source to experiment with hybrid analog/digital modular music synthesizers. I'm selling it because I no longer have a modular synth to use it with. It has been rebuilt with all new electrolytic capacitors, I/O switches and blue LEDs. Included is an assortment of multicolor patch cables that I made up with silicone jacketed wire and gold plated 2.5mm banana plugs. Mounted in a wooden enclosure it is self contained with a built-in power supply & clock generator. Size is 19"W X 17.5 "H so it fits nicely in a 19" rack 10U space. I setup a demo video of a dual decade up counter.

Logic modules included:16x JK flip flops, numeric keypad, multiple AND/NAND/OR/NOR/XOR gates, full adder, D/A converter, 1k bit addressable memory, comparator, one shot multivibrator, schmitt triggered buffer, 60Hz clock, dual seven segment decimal display, other miscellaneous functions including four I/O switches and a patchable 16 pin IC socket (nice if you want to add an additional IC or an interface cable).

Cosmetic condition: Fair to good with some scratches on the panel and damage to the wooden enclosure (see pictures).

Power source: 120VAC
Logic family: 7400 series 5V TTL"

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Woodhouse Soundsystem D9 - Drum Expander SN 812146

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

via this Reverb listing

This appears to be the first post to feature Woodhouse. If anyone has any more info on them feel freel to comment.

All I could find on it was the following from the Sequencer.de forums [Googlish link]:

"Hello! I took some more pictures here! It's made in Denmark! The circuit boards say: Mark Mason electronic Denmark."

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NDK Vintage Rhythm Machince

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

via this Reverb listing

This appears to be the first one to be featured on the site. You can find additonal NDK creations in previous posts here.

Pics of the inside below.

"This nostalgic drum machine is for sale due to studio downsizing. Probably one of the first .

One example is said to be in the German museum.

It is fully functional and still looks quite fresh.

A piece of plastic is missing from 2 gray toggle switches at the front.

All the capacitors have been replaced so that it runs without any background noise.

Very organic, powerful sound, produced by coils and germanium transistors, among other things.

230V

Width: 60 cm, depth: 28 cm Height: 9 cm"

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FESMA PK-70 - Vintage Italian Synth (1985) HD

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
video upload by Alberto Napolioni

Note this appears to be the first PK-70 to be featured on the site.

FREE IMPROVISATIONS
on this absolutely rarity
the FESMA PK-70!

00:00 Melancholy Glitch
00:27 SINE tempore
00:41 Arcadia
01:01 VaporWaving
01:22 Reverse Cascade
01:43 SAYONARA
01:56 Robotronics


FX Used on some parts:
OTO BAM reverb
OTO BIM delay

via this Reverb listing

"The unfindable FESMA PK-70!(a prototype probably)

Features:

Vintage wavetable synth,with effects, custom drums, MIDI & built in speakers, etc

Fully SERVICED by pro tecnician

Comes with its power charger and custom Case."

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Mystery Vintage Matrix Pump, Tim Smith DIY & Vintage EML

Pictured are a few interesting items for sale from Mike Berman. You can find them here.

I asked him if it would be OK to capture the pictures here as I've never seen the "matrix pump" before. He gave me the all clear. Note this is the first post to feature one. This is a rare piece of synth history.

All Mike knows about it follows: "For me, the nature of the Matrix pump and its affiliation with EML is pure speculation. I always assumed it to be, at best, an unfinished one-off. If you magnify the photo you can read the labels on the controls and they are intriguing. The multi-pin socket on the left side of the MP accepts the same plug that EML sequencers use. That section is labeled 'Synto Interface'. I experimented with various patches and found some functionality in a few of the controls but I don't recall specifics beyond that. "

Below that you can see The Tim Smith box featuring the following section: Explonental Amp, Noise Generator, Lag Processor, and ENV/Gate Generator. I asked Mike is Tim Smith the same Tim Smith that was the Western Regional Tech Rep for Sequential Circuits , Arp, Moog and also contributed to the famous Vintage Synthesizers book and articles in Keyboard Magazine. He's not sure but believes it is.

Further below you'll find the MODEL EML-200, MANUAL CONTROLLER EML-300, multi-pin cables, EML 400 : EML 401, EML 500, EML POLY-BOX, X-Y CONTROLLER

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Of cyclotrons and sequencers: recreating a 1974 “probability controller” in Eurorack

video upload by Electrum Modular

"This is the first video in a new series exploring the University of Iowa’s Electronic Music Studio. In addition to presenting its historic instruments (including a 1968 Moog IIIP with custom-made modules), and the famous musicians who have used them, these videos will extrapolate ideas to use in your own modular systems. This episode examines a unique random sequencer that was developed in 1974 by Paul Dingman, an electrical engineering student at Iowa. It then shows how it might be recreated using the third lane ('time') on Make Noise’s 0-Ctrl. NOTE: several other Eurorack sequencers also have this feature, as indeed does the Moog’s own 960 sequential controller; alternatively, use an LFO to clock any sequencer and patch the sequencer’s second lane/channel (if it has one) back into that LFO’s frequency input.

0:00 University of Iowa's Electronic Music Studio
0:42 Introducing Dingman's Probability Controller
1:58 Demonstrating the Probability Controller
3:50 Recreating the Probability Controller in Eurorack

My new album:



CREDITS

Thanks to Paul Dingman for answering my questions over Zoom.

Film sequences:
'Atom Smashers' (Encyclopaedia Britannica Films in collaboration with the Division of the Physical Sciences and the Institute of Nuclear Studies at the University of Chicago, 1952)

'The Meaning of Time In Science' (Encyclopaedia Britannica Films, d. Kent Smith, 1973); both archive.org

Portrait of Peter Tod Lewis: https://composers.com/collections/pet...

Music: Peter Tod Lewis, 'Gestes II' (1974), from the Mnemothèque Internationale des Arts Electroacoustiques (University of North Texas Music Library). Program notes for an EMS concert on April 13, 1979, described “Gestes II” as “the generation of musical gestures through coordinated operation of sequential controllers programmed to produce a large but finite collection of voltages, controlling variously oscillators, amplifiers, and filters” (University of Iowa Music Library)."

Lel DidiDrum by Ultrarare.su

video upload by Futulyric

"Ultrarare presents another super rare device drum module - Lel MIDIDRUM. In MIDI format all knobs of the device do not work, volume commands are transmitted in the note mode. Thus, the only regulator is the volume knob in the lower right corner. The simplicity of the plugin is compensated by the uniqueness of the source. To date, no other working preserved copy is known. Also included in the delivery set will be 34 unique drum parts of Lel in midi format, the name of which is written on the device."

This appears to be the first one to be featured on the site.

Scholer Tunesmith

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

via this listing

"Now this right here is some real vintage, one-of-a-kind, gear! Literally!

Produced in the 60's, these quirky little synths came as DIY builders kits, making each one slightly different in its own way. This one we got here is a great example of one built by someone who cared. Simple controls with a nice variety of sounds and voicings to make and play with to your heart's monophonic content!

While showing some signs of its age, this thing is still kicking and ready to be played!"

This appears to be the first one to be featured on the site.

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Young Chang K2000RJ V3 Rackmount Synthesizer SN 22940904106

via this listing, also on eBay

"Kurzweil / Young Chang K2000RJ V3 Rackmount Synthesizer – Legendary Sound Design Powerhouse

Experience the power and flexibility of the Kurzweil / Young Chang K2000RJ V3, a rackmount version of one of the most iconic synthesizers in history. This unit is equipped with Kurzweil's renowned Variable Architecture Synthesis Technology (V.A.S.T.), which allows for deep, customizable sound design, from lush pads to cutting-edge leads. Whether you're crafting cinematic textures, vintage synth tones, or complex multi-layered arrangements, the K2000RJ delivers the tools and quality to bring your sonic ideas to life. This V3 version adds enhancements that make it even more versatile for modern setups.

This unit is in excellent working condition, with clear display functionality and smooth-operating controls. It includes its original Factory Programs & Demos floppy disk, ensuring you have access to a wide range of classic patches and sounds to get started. The rear panel offers a full array of connections, including multiple audio outs, MIDI in/out/thru, and a SCSI port for expanded storage options—perfect for professional studios or live performance rigs. This K2000RJ reflects the thoughtful engineering that has made Kurzweil a leader in synthesizers, even under Young Chang’s branding.

If you’ve been looking for a rackmount synthesizer that combines powerful sound creation tools with a reputation for reliability, this Kurzweil / Young Chang K2000RJ V3 is ready to exceed your expectations. Whether you’re a composer, producer, or performer, this synth will become an essential part of your creative arsenal. Don’t miss your chance to own this piece of synthesizer history!"

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4x Sony DPS-Serie: D7, M7, R7, F7, Digital Studio FX + Synth, komplettes Set

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

via this listing

Note this is the first post to feature them. Apparently the F7 features a vocodoer with 2-oscillator monosynth and drum synth.

"ENGLISH DESCRIPTION (consult the German one too, as it may contain a few more details): You are bidding on a complete quartet of the legendary Sony DPS-7 series, including the rare F7 filter and vocoder module with 2-oscillator monosynth and a drum synth with 20 sound generators. I have another complete quartet, which is enough, so this one has to go. Everything is fully functional. There is the usual rack rash, especially scratches on the top surfaces (plus some on the D7's buttons), but nothing that goes beyond what you would expect at this age. The batteries are fully charged (and can easily be replaced if ever necessary). All the buttons, encoders and potentiometers work smoothly. Note that the F7 is a 110V version, so you'll need one of the usual step-down transformers to operate it in Europe. I have a semi-defunct DPS-D7 that may serve as a PSU donor in a possible transplantation.

Google translated from German:

The complete quartet of the Sony DPS-7 series is available here, i.e. D7, M7, R7, and the rare F7 with its filters, vocoders and the only synthesizer that Sony has ever built (a virtual analog monophonic and drum synth). Since I now have another copy of each of the four devices, all the surplus ones have to go, because one set is enough for me.

The four devices in question here are all in perfect condition. They have the usual rack installation marks, especially scratches on the top (also a little on the buttons on the D7), but otherwise nothing that goes beyond what is to be expected at this age. The pictures are pretty brutal. The batteries are full, the buttons don't stick and the potentiometers slide as they should. Note: the F7 comes in the 110V version. So it needs one of the usual voltage converters ("travel adapter", "step-down transformer" etc., which can be bought second-hand for a small price). Unfortunately I still need mine for another device, so I can't give it away. But I still have a DPS-D7, which works but has a few minor flaws and a 220V power supply. Since the devices are electrically identical, I would also sell the D7 if you are interested, so that a power supply exchange is possible."

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SEQUENTIAL CIRCUITS SIEL Piano Quattro 1983 Black and Silver

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

via this listing

"SIEL Piano Quattro synthesizer piano in excellent condition, working in all its parts.

WITH ANIMATOR AND EQUALIZER, A REAL CHICCA FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR THE TYPICAL SOUND OF ITALO DISCO.

THE AESTHETIC AND FUNCTIONAL CONDITIONS ARE EXCELLENT.

CREATED IN COLLABORATION WITH SEQUENTIAL CIRCUITS WHO PRODUCED IT WITH ITS BRAND IN A REDUCED VERSION."

Note this appears to be the first one featured on the site.

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Floyd Engels Theremin Stringless Cello Replica

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

via this listing

Additional Retro Gear Shop Listings

"For sale is a very rare Floyd Engels Theremin Cello with custom tube amplifier. It's in excellent shape and fully functional. This is a modified replica of Leon Theremin's Stringless Cello from the mid 1930's made by Floyd Engels in 2011. Apparently only 10 of these were ever made, you aren't likely to see another one for sale again, grab this unique piece while you can!"

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PATTERN GENERATOR PG303 by DATAPRODUCTS of NEW ENGLAND

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

via this listing

"Data Products of New England PG303 Teletype Pattern Generator

8 ch pattern generator with variable character sequence length

If you think of some of the earliest electronic rhythms ever made, you can’t avoid mentioning morse code. The Data Products PG303 is designed to send these patterns for telephone/radio testing, and is one of the strangest rhythm machines I know. It is probably half broken and gave me a nasty shock or two as I wired the power wrong, but it is always inspiring. On the album, this drives most of the rhythm, and in the library you can hear it also at higher Baud rates oscillating.

- HAINBACH ...from the "Landfill Totem" collection

does it music?? yes!

Not for the faint of heart, the PG303 has an ability to create the strangest gate sequence and fuse morse code and musical logic... ping filters or make a strange clock source!! This unit works on pure intuition!! no operation manual, just turn it on and make the slowest of trigs to audio frequency screams and spastic pulses!"

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ART Pitch Transposer SN 29-002731

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

via this listing

Additional Analog U.S. Listings

"This one is in excellent cosmetic condition and working 100%. It has just been serviced and with some restoration. It is the same Model 129 as the blue face MXR Pitch Transposer. Terry Sherwood (one of MXR's founders), and some of MXR's engineers, left the company to start ART. The other founding member started Alesis (as you may know.) These ART 129's are not too common!"

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Crumar Panorgan X76 Rare Unknown Gem

Note: Auction links 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.

"This quirky instrument sounds incredible, and because of its non-standard keyboard it makes you play differently, and produce new chord progressions you would never achieve on guitar or piano-style keyboard. In very good cosmetic condition apart from the things arrowed in red on the pics - an unimportant music rest with a break in it, and the scrapes caused by the incredibly bad lid design - lift it up and it almost always falls down and scrapes the panel unless you take care. (Now the hinges have been reversed to avoid that happening.) The drum machine is cheesy but in a good way. Seriously hand-made and impossible to re-create today. Euro/UK power, currently with UK mains lead. Packing 24GBP."

Pics of the inside below. Note this appears to be the first Crumar Panorgan X76 to be featured on the site.

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