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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TEISCO R-3A RHYTHMER All rhythm pattern

video upload by Rec Gear Demos

This appears to be the first post to feature the TEISCO R-3A. See the New Old label below for more.

Kawai PDR-15 Padrabbit SN 571353

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

via this listing

"This product has been tested and confirmed to be functional. The initial protective padding in the left panel area has not yet been removed. This is a very rare Kawai item that can be used not only as a MIDI controller by tapping the pads, but also as a ROLL or FLAM to play very unique tricks."

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

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Elektor ok-drumbox M 253

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

via this listing

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

Pics of the inside below.

"Elektor Drumbox M-253

The device is basically functional, i.e. the instruments sound and different rhythms with variations can be set.

However, a humming noise can be heard, which gets louder with the volume control knob (check the power supply).

for sale to hobbyists and connoisseurs"

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AMS 3 - Socialist East Germany's Massive Modular

video upload by HAINBACH

"Synthesizers had it hard in Socialist East-Germany - Socialist Realism was for a long time the prevailing art form. An instrument that creates unreal sounds was not endorsed by the SED leadership. Only in the waning years of the GDR (or DDR as it is called in German) that changed, with the Vermona Synthesizer coming out in 1982. The first officially sanctioned modular synthesizer, the Audiotronic AMS3 featured in this video was built between 1986 and 1988 for the Electro-Acoustic Studio of the Akademie der Künste.

Music, Soundpack and thanks: / hainbach"

You can find the Subharchord here: An Avant-Garde Synthesizer From 1960s East Germany

1971 Contessa Branded Keio (Korg) Mini Pops 7 Analogue Drum Machine

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

via this listing

This is the first post to feature Contessa.

"1971 Contessa Branded Keio (Korg) Mini Pops 7. I have owned several of these and this one is in excellent condition (a few minor marks) and it sounds amazing. The signal is beautifully clean.

This is the UK voltage version - 220v.

It has just been fully serviced and comes with a period footswitch and a bespoke case, which has kept it in good condition all these years. I have replaced the rubber feet, as after a few decades they simply perish.

This analogue drum machine was used by Jean Michelle Jarre and Aphex Twin and has a rich and highly distinctive tone and range of patterns. It's highly versatile and can even be programmed live using the buttons (zero signal noise when you do this) and sliders (smooth as a baby's bottom).

Most of these machines survive due to the exceptional build quality but are usually scratched and bashed about. This one has very few marks on it and looks stunning. It even has the original panel for the mains cable compartment - most of which are missing. I don't think you'll find many better examples than this."

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rare birds: Dynacord Magic 370 spring reverb [& Korg Mini Pops 120]

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

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

"this is a quite rare spring reverb built by Dynacord in the late 60s. As minimal as it can possibly be: a black box with only a socket (input/output) and a gain level. Not even a power switch ! This particular unit was fully recapped and it sounds very nice, deep but quite bright for a spring reverb. Tank is a Accutronics one and electronics is only transistor based. The pot is not a blend pot but a gain level. As you can hear you can get the unit to overdrive quite easily. You need to set the unit as an aux to your mixing desk or soundcard. If you plug an instrument directly you will get wet sound only. In this demo it is connected to a RME babyface as an aux, and I used a Korg Mini Pops 120 (btw for sale here: https://www.ebay.com/itm/305744488287) and a Roland SH-101 as source materials"

via this listing

Note the listing is for the Minipops only.

"classic Korg Minipops 120, the last drum machine from the Mini Pops serie. Unit was serviced, partially recapped and calibrated. It's in fully working order. Unit was also slightly modded: the balance knob which originally acted as a kind of EQ (boosting bass on the left side and high on the right side) is now acting as a HI Hats / Cymbal volume (like it should have IMO) so you can totally dialed off the hi hats / cymbal and it allows for more rhythmic variations, perfect for those breaks."

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THE WEIRDEST DRUM MACHINE YOU'VE NEVER HEARD OF

video upload by LOOK MUM NO COMPUTER

"The Seabro Gig Machine!
Check out the mentioned samples and songs from this video available to download here :- / lookmumnocomputer
Which helps the constant improvement of ‪@THISMUSEUMISNOTOBSOLETE‬ info here :- https://this-museum-is-not-obsolete.com/"

Note this is the first post to feature Seabro.