NEWPORT Rhythm Sound FR-106

sato1966

Note this appears to be the first Newport post on the site. Curious if they made anything else.

Phison PEO-800 MIMI Organ: Overview. (Stylophone clone)

Leigh Kemp

Note this is the first post to feature Phison and the PEO-800.

"An in-depth look at the Phison PEO-800 MIMI organ. A Stylophone clone manufactured in 1975.

Rick Reid: http://www.stylophonemuseum.com/
Andy Murkin: https://andymurkin.wordpress.com/
Thanks to Mark Osborne for the MIMI manual image."

This one is in via @LeighKemp2

PIONEER SA-055 - SOUND MIXER STEREO AMPLIFER

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via this auction

This one was spotted and sent in via M Me. Anyone know when these were manufactured?

Why is this getting a post? Look closely. :)

Video below.

Update via Tristan in the comments: made in 1984.

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1993 Roland MT120 / 120S Brochure

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

via this auction

This appears to be the first post to feature the Roland MT-120 and MT-120S digital sequencer & sound modules. Unfortunately no close-up of the MT-120S.

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The Processor: Analog Music Synthesizer From 1976

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

Vintage DIY spotted on RRAuctions

"'The Processor'—a hand-built mid-1970s prototype music synthesizer

Impressive analog music synthesizer prototype named 'The Processor,' one of two examples designed and built circa 1975 by electrical engineers Dennis Drew and Thomas Sawyer. The huge unit measures approximately 41″ x 32″ x 19″, and was built to transform the sound of one musical instrument into that of another in real time. The Processor performs its signal transformations by sending audio through a series of discrete devices pre-wired to perform dedicated signal modifications with musical intent. Unlike a conventional synthesizer which uses oscillators, white noise generators and other devices to produce new sounds (which can then be modified with filters, envelope shaping, etc.), the Processor creates no actual sounds on its own. The Processor is a 'pass-through' system that transforms, augments, modifies and converts musical signals into other sounds, in real time, using pure analog circuitry. Some results resemble other musical instruments, whereas other sounds are completely unique.

It is important to note that the Processor is a 'closed loop' system. This is entirely analog circuitry, there are no digital transformations or computerized functions. By routing a signal through a mixer, dynamic limiters, phase-shifting modules, delay lines, and 'signal seeking' filters, the Processor 'extracts' hidden tonal components and adds them selectively to the original sound, or it produces entirely new sounds depending on the requirements. It works particularly well for instruments with wide dynamic ranges, long sustains and/or continuous signal characteristics. Harmonically rich instruments such as piano or organ, acoustic guitar and most stringed instruments capable of both long tones and percussive effects work especially well. It includes a control console that has meters to indicate dynamic response and signal levels, and a joystick to make adjustments. It is currently partially operational: those modules that are physically powered are active, but six missing FLT cables prevent the whole system from operating. This piece will be crated and shipped from New York; the buyer is responsible for all associated costs."

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Hammond Model HEK-1 Mini Organ Synth w/ Built-In Speakers & Cards?

Hammond HEK-2 & HEK_3 Ensemble Keyboard (Junior Hammonds) - Uploaded by Mike Bracchi

SN 05111856 via this auction

First one I've seen. I could find any demos for the HEK-1, but found the video above for the HEK-2 & HEK-3. Looks like these were geared towards kids. Below you'll find a pic of what appears to be some colored cards for it.

I did find the following from RocknRoll Vintage's Synth City who carried them:

"This is a fun mini organ that was only available in Japan, hence the printed Japanese text. Most of the sounds are like a modern beginner Casio keyboard, fairly high quality sample based sounds. However, the organ sounds are great and include the nice draw bars for interacting with the sounds! Unfortunately we can't read Japanese here and the extent of our testing was done by just trying all the buttons and sounds. As far as we know the unit is in perfect working order. The whole panel of buttons was taken apart and cleaned by our repair technician and is functioning very well."

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Microlink Systems Micro Musical MIDI Musician interface synthesizer original sales brochure

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via this auction

This appears to be the first Micro Musical / Microlink Systems post on the site. Note the address sticker in the bottom pic is Micro Musical Limited.

From the packaging:

"Boost Your Keyboard Performance to Super Star Level

MIDI Musician run on Spectrum computer will unleash the hidden power built-in to your MIDI keyboard, synth, organ or drum machine etc.

Generate Your Music with Music Typewriter

Superb real music notation graphics and easy music entry/editing facilities.

Perform Your Music with MIDI Musician

Play complete pieces, or add subtle computer assistance to your own live performances in the form of sequences, control of automatic keyboard facilities, arpeggios, lead line riffs, auto transpositions etc.

System Software Included

1. Music Typewriter
2. Midi Musician
3. Microdriver
4. Microconvertor"

Note the left cassette tape reads "Romantic Robot" on the bottom.

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Vintage CRB ELETTRONICA TANZANITE Synthesizer Combo Italian Organ

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

via this auction

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

Presets: Melodia, Trumpet, Sax, and Violin.

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Vintage Kawai R-7 Stereophonic Rhythm Machine

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

via this auction

This one was spotted and sent in via M Me.

It appears to be the first one to be featured on the site. It looks more like home stereo equipment than synth gear.  Rhythms for lounge parties....

"Kawai R-7, a drumcomputer that due to its look was probably built in the 70s.

It´s obviously an extremely rare species as even long time consuming searches on the internet were unsuccessful.

The R-7 is in a beautiful shape as easily seen on the pics with only minor imperfections on the tolex and the veneer side panels. And the original "Stereo Selector" knob is missing.

After my tests I got the impression that everything works. You can choose between the different rhythms with the white switches or you could simultaneously press several switches for complex rhythms. Individual instruments or instrument groups can be activated or deactivated by the round black switches.

A nice effect is the changing colored backlight (kind of animation) while the rhythms are playing. I have never seen this feature on any other rhythm machine.

Another unusual if not unique feature is the possibility to adjust the left and right volume channel and to switch between mono and stereo - whatever it does."

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The HAL-ICM Frigit - a "Russian Fairlight"

via Retro Synth Ads, where you'll find the full write-up.

"The HAL-ICM Frigit synthesizer from page 16 in the July 1984 issue of Keyboard Magazine.

The instrument itself, called the HAL-ICM Frigit, was designed by a Japanese-Soviet team, with the head of the music division of the Ukraine Society Academy of Scientists describing it as the 'most advanced computer musical instrument in the world'. It was similar in appearance to the Fairlight but it's 'costs, signal-to-noise ratio, digital recording facility, and synthesizing techniques for both sound and light were far superior to any current system'."

minimal effort music

Published on Jun 1, 2020 wildchurch

"clocked music system

O2 Minipops - clock master/drums through filter
clock goes to buffered multiples in order to sync the following:
- Hougaku Mini Conductor with step sequencer
- Sony Beat Box with trigger sequencer + footswitch for adding fills
- Casio PT-80 with step sequencer (playing chord buttons); running through Zoom B1on multi-FX (creating woosey brass sounds)

The second part features the above, plus:
Victor KB-65 (aka JVC KB-600) - a semi analog home keyboard from the 1980s with primitive MIDI implementation.
Auto accompaniment section sync'ed to above clock system via MIDI"

Old Hohner Bassophon synthesizer "accordion" fisarmonica

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via this auction

I believe this is the first Bassophon to be featured on the site. Looks the same as the Electronium in this demo video by Hainbach.

"It is not a typical accordion, as the sound will be produced electrical, not by reeds. It is called "Bassophon" . The case includes its loudspeaker. Please note, that it has a German plug. (Maybe I can buy for your an adapter if you need one) The instrument makes sounds on most of the keys, but needs professional service and repair. Size: approx.17inch x 14,5" x 7,5" (43/37/19cm) The instrument needs repair and cleaning"

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Poly Midi 1 Micro Sequencer

Published on May 27, 2020 deepeightyeight

Anyone recognize this one? I asked deepeightyeight and all I got was a ♥️. It looks old and familiar but my brain is not working at the moment. :)

Update: Found the following video of a white one. Apparently it's from 1984. Is the brand Micro Performance or R-Madness? Note the video is from a Dr Ralf Madness. Is this his design? Did he create a custom front panel with R-Madness on it?...
Update2: See the Micro Performance label and more will be revealed, at least on the black one. :)
Update3: and some info here: http://www.suonoelettronico.com...

Digital sequencer Micro performance Poly MIDI-1 replacing battery

Published on Oct 20, 2018 Dr Ralf Madness

"This is how to replace battery on this rare french vintage sequencer from 1984. it's a digital 5 tracks and 2 songs sequencer.

Music 'Journey in a sad man's mind part II' by Dr Ralf Madness.I own the rights of this track."

CEI Student Super Rare Vintage 60s Organ Bauer Porto C.E.I.

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
Published on May 27, 2020 StudioSoba

First one to be featured on the site. More of a preset organ than synth, but interesting nonetheless. Presets include Horn, Cornet, and Strings. Vibrato On/Off switch and separate Vibrato Full switch.

via this auction

"Super rare 1960s made in Italy portable organ electronic 3 octave keyboard with original semi-case.

It has 3 presets (Horn, Cornet and Strings) and Vibrato plus Vibrato Full.

CEI (C.E.I.) built many organs like Prestige, Carnaval and Parade and also this rare 3 octave portable named Student. This company worked close and partnered with Bauer, Noble, Porto (that made Fender Starmaster), Vivant, Farfisa, Vox. So parts and sound for it are most likely compatible with many of those company instruments.

It's in good cosmetic and working condition considering its age. All switches, knob, buttons and keys working fine. Speaker is really load and strong. Stand is missing. Few scratches on sides you can see details on photos."

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Vintage CRUMAR 2003 organ / synthesizer / string / brass ensemble

Never seen one of these before. This is the first one featured on the site.

Playlist:

1. CRUMAR 2003 organ / synthesizer / string / brass ensemble: first startup in years

The Crumar 2003 is a very rare instrument which combines the best Crumar had to offer in the late 1970's. It includes one of the best solid state drawbar organs, a monophonic 1 VCO synth, a brass / piano / string section and the Nerve Centre 15 accompanyment section which produces lot's of spacy stuff. The brass / piano / string combination was also offered in standalone instruments like the Orchestrator and Multiman. Strangely enough these are traded for a lot more money then this combined instrument but then again: It weighs a ton and takes up a lot of real estate. This one is a bit of an old banger but I simply cannot bring myself to getting rid of it. It's simply too rare. For more info on my creative adventures visit www.brassee.com. Have fun!

2. CRUMAR 2003: some general maintenance and startup tips for old organs / synthesizers / keyboards

This is the second video about my rare Crumar 2003 organ. It shows the electronics inside and contains a few general tips about starting up old electronic instruments after years of neglect.

3. CRUMAR 2003 organ/ synthesizer / brass / string ensemble video 3

Here's the 3rd video about my old Crumar 2003. It's similar to the startup video but a bit more compact and made with th asssitence of a camera(wo)man. It's just as unproffesional in about every other aspect though but real vintage synthesizer and keyboard fans might still like it. For more about my creative adventures visit: www.brassee.com

Vintage Mystery Synth

Anyone know what this is? It was recently spotted by Florian Anwander who had the following to say:

"This device was used while a live stream from a Hamburg Club streaming event. We had the impression, that it made 808 like drumsounds, but we are not sure. I tried to turn and unskew the picture to make the writing readable, but
the success is mediocre. It might read Mma 090. It looks like the grey rectangle is a speaker (there is a second under the moog FX). Can anyone identify what it is?"

The style reminds me of Boehm or Bohm, but I couldn't find it in the archives. If you know what it is let us know!

Update via Florian in the comments:

"Richard von der Schulenburg, who used it while this event, kindly answered my request. It is a 'PENTA Stereo keyboar' by the brand GERLAND. I found as a single hit on google this picture.

I've never heard about it, neither the brand nor the instrument. If I search for the brand name, then I find typical home organs."



GARLAND is an organ brand. Note the button style is the same as the PENTA.

Oscar Schmidt Easy Chord 2 w/ Original Box & Manual

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
Published on Apr 16, 2020 Blake's Gear

Similar to a Suzuki Omnichord. I believe this is the first one to be featured on the site.

via this auction

"This analog keyboard has a touchplate for harp sounds and 6 chord buttons for organ sounds.
Unlike the Omnichord, pushing a chord button and then pushing another chord button at the same time creates a momentary combination of chords.

Another thing that makes it even more expressive than the Omnichord is that the chord buttons are velocity sensitive, so more individual notes are triggered the harder you press.

The tone knob isn't a filter but actually controls the blend between two totally different sounding synth oscillators at separate octaves.

Runs on AA batteries or with power supply. (not included)
Made in Japan."

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Godwin Symphony Model 849 - M849

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via this auction

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JL Cooper Midi Channelizer Pedal

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via this auction

Never seen one of these before. Looks like a simple 16 channel MIDI switch.

"Midi Channelizer Pedal for many of your vintage synths/machines.

Excellent condition, missing the bottom rubber feet.

I recall having this hooked up bettween a drum machine and a midi synth but i no longer have the power supply. sold untested but guarantee against DOA."

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1984 Roland Bass Plus 30

via Retro Synth Ads were you'll find the full write-up.

"Roland Bass Plus 30 "Roland has seen the future and it doesn't involve... feet" organ bass pedal replacement synthesizer advertisement from page 32 in the March 1984 issue of Choir and Organ Magazine."

A TB-303 in custom case with built-in speaker & tape deck. :)