EMS Synthi A with Robin Wood mods, mint

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.

VEMIA is Peter Forrest's auction house. He is the author of The A-Z of Analogue Synthesizer Books.

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oneoff EMS SYNTHI, Eurorack, ARP Odyseey & "ohm" lo-fi Videos

Published on Feb 26, 2013 oneoff

Playlist:
The Modulation Pin- Adds CV to the Synthi -sequencer
The Modulation Pin- Adds CV to the Synthi matrix- LFO
random sequencer x2
Random looping sequencer
EMS effect machine
Talking EMS SYNTHI
Talking ARP Odyssey
EMS Synthi Aks connected with a CV/GATE converter box to x0xb0x sequencer
EMS Synthi Aks connected with a CV/GATE converter box to x0xb0x + a midi keyboard
EMS Synthi AKS inverter mod 3.wmv
EMS Synthi AKS inverter mod 2.wmv
EMS Synthi AKS inverter mod 1.wmv
EMS Synthi AKS inverter mod and ring modulator.wmv
EMS Synthi AKS envelope generator and trapezoid
EMS Synthi AKS - trapezoid and shape mods.wmv
EMS Synthi AKS - testing the mods...wmv
EMS Synthi AKS - more mods and speekers test
EMS Synthi AKS ring modulator and reverb test
EMS Synthi AKS - noise through filter
EMS Synthi AKS - filter and trapezoid action
EMS Synthi AKS - 3 osc. and noise source test
"ohm" lo-fi cardboard experimental sampler
"ohm" lo-fi cardboard sampler - sample chopper
"ohm" lo-fi cardboard experimental sampler

Video Tracks from The Synthi Group Vol. II

the synthi vol. II - digitana - Vayu Somnium.mov

YouTube Uploaded by thesynthi on Jan 6, 2012

"Download: http://www.archive.org/details/ca345_tsg

Artist: Digitana
Title: Vayu Somnium
Time: 5:15
Device: All sounds made entirely with a single VCS3 controlled by a
TKS , and an EMS RVG.Some delay effects used on some tracks and slight
overall reverb added to the master for ambience.
Genre: psychedelic/experimental
Contact: http://www.synthi.co.uk
Location: UK"

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SYNTHI 100 : Yoshio Machida + Constantin Papageorgiadis

Published on Dec 5, 2015 amorfon

"(JP/ENG)
The album will be released in Oct, 2017.

SYNTHI 100
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/EMS_Syn...

Yoshio Machida
http://www.yoshiomachida.com
http://www.baskaru.com/karu29.htm

Constantin Papageorgiadis (a.k.a. Trap & Zoid)
http://www.portabellabz.be

(JP)
2015年11月にベルギーのゲント大学機関：IPEM(Institute for Psychoacoustics and Electronic Music)で、町田良夫とConstantin Papageorgiadis (BE)が大学所有のEMS SYNTHI 100を使ってレコーディングを行いました。この映像は、アウトボードを使わずSYNTHI 100のみで演奏したものです。ほとんど動かない状態だったこのSYNTHI 100をTrap & Zoid自ら数週間かけて修理し動くようにしました。

(ENG)
Yoshio Machida + Constantin Papageorgiadis had recording using SYNTHI 100 in November 2015 at IPEM(Institute for Psychoacoustics and Electronic Music), Gent University.
http://www.ipem.ugent.be/
Performed with only SYNTHI 100, without any outboards and effects. This SYNTHI 100 was also broken, but Trap & Zoid repaired and re-tuned."

Spotted this one on sequencer.de. Not sure where to get the CD though. Not finding it at the links above or on sequencer.de. However there is one for the SYNTHI AKS here.

And via baskaru.com

"The machine that refuses to age

The SYNTHI AKS is a legendary machine. Manufactured by Electronic Music Studios in 1971, this portable modular synthesizer was extremely flexible. Not a keyboard synth like what Moog was doing at the time, this was a generative music machine with a matrix patch panel. Think Max/MSP in analog terms. Except that being analog, it wasn't entirely stable and, thus, had an organic quality that is still valued today.

Music from the SYNTHI is a new endeavour for Yoshio Machida, a consistently surprising sound and visual artist who, among other feats, has released an acclaimed series of sound collage albums (Hypernatural), albums of improvisations on steelpan drums, and records with the bands miimo and Ohanami. This new solo album arrives almost four years after his previous one The Spirit of Beauty (a slow-evolving piece combining instruments, field recordings and electronics), and six years after his Baskaru debut Hypernatural #3.

Music from the SYNTHI consists in 13 pieces. Most of them are quirky and playful. "SYNTHI n° 30" has a longing quality you would never expect from a synthesizer. And all of them are 100% SYNTHI. "I simply recorded the repeating patterns and mixed 3 to 5 patterns per piece, without any editing or effects," explains Machida. I wanted to record rich obscure improvisations as performed by the SYNTHI. Every modulation, reverb, effect like delay, and glitch sound is produced inside the SYNTHI."

Original EMS Synthi A modular synthesizer

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

Some history from the listing:

"This is one of the last 40 EMS Synthi's ever to be produced. I've spent more than a decade on the waiting list for it.

New orders are no longer being accepted as the Spartanite briefcases essential to the Synthi design are no longer available.

In other words, according to the manufacturer, this unit is among the last handful of Synthi A's ever.

This instrument was meticulously hand-built and precision-calibrated earlier this year by Robin Wood of EMS himself.

It's in absolutely perfect operational and cosmetic condition. It's also the only truly new Synthi I've ever seen on eBay.

I placed my order for this Synthi with EMS in the UK in 2001. It was finally delivered in early 2012. A few years after placing my order I got impatient and had the chance to buy an older Synthi A, so at the moment I actually have two units. The two are almost identical but the older one has more sentimental value to me, having owned & played it for almost 10 years. After long deliberation I've decided to sell this new one.

In terms of design, compared to the 70's units, the only differences I've spotted are a squarish attack button instead of a round one (the new design is an improvement over the older one, which was much harder to push down), and the fact that the label on the briefcase now reads "EMS Cornwall" instead of "EMS London" (the company moved).

The operating voltage is still switchable between 110v and 220v via a switch inside the briefcase.

In terms of sound, comparing this to my 1970's Synthi I hear no differences in sound character or response: It has all the unique sonic character that Synthi's are legendary for, while at the same time being perfectly calibrated and sounding exactly as its designer intended.

I've had the chance to try out several Synthi's over the past 15 years, and this sounds exactly like the older units, but without the inevitable scratchiness of used instruments.

This is a "MkII" Synthi A, with a matte aluminium front panel, and output rows on the pin matrix.

It also has a Prestopatch connector, the only original feature that EMS decided not to fit as standard to this last run of Synthi's, but which I had added by special request. This makes it identical to the majority of the 70's instruments. The Prestopatch connector can be used with the 3rd party expansion modules from Digitana, for example.

For those of you interested in expanding the range of the instrument further, a number of modifications (voltage controlled waveshape, sync, inverter, oscillator range switches, etc.) can be added by EMS later on. I had this done to my other Synthi a few years ago.

The Synthi comes with all the original accessories: a full set of 18 patch pins (white, red and green), the power cord, and the 90-page "Synthi Educational Handbook" manual. Comes in original, incredibly sturdy, packaging as well..."

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EMS SYNTHI AKS

via this Vemia aution
You can find videos of this unit here.
"One of the most historically interesting synths we've ever had in the auction: a very very early AKS, one of the three owned and used by Zorch, who recorded at Peter Zinovieff's Putney studio. Like Dr Zinovieff's own Synthi, this has no Spartanite case. It was manufactured in December 1972 - and bought in early 1973; and bearing in mind the age and provenance, it's quite likely it never HAD a case. It is being sold on behalf of Avi Nisim, of the psychedelic-trance duo Astral Projection. It has some excellent original mods. It is sold as is, with any faults as described or un-noticed, and although it is great as it is, it could be even better serviced by one of the EMS tech experts like Lucidsound, or Robin Wood himself. You will need to change the mains plug to the correct one for your country, and if necessary switch the voltage. PLEASE BE AWARE THAT IT IS LIKELY TO ATTRACT TAX AND/OR EXCISE DUTY WHEN IMPORTED TO YOUR COUNTRY. Here are some extracts from the very thorough description from the seller - which you can see in full, with good resolution pictures and video, at http://noisedesign.blogspot.com/2010/03/ems-synthi-aks-for-sale-daylight_20.html This is an early model, white front panel 'EMS Synthi AKS' with a prestopatch bay, produced in december 1972 (acording to it's serial number 4658ks and confirmed by robin wood from EMS) . currently the synth belongs to avi nisim, a member of the psychedelic-trance duo 'astral projection' based in israel. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Astral_Projection_(group) astral projection works together since 1989 and considered to be one of the first psy-trance groups in the world. while checking the front pannel i found a little logo sticker ,which later was recognized with the group 'zorch' http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/zorch who were pioneers in the british synth music, as britain first 'all synths' group. zorch were the only band ever recorded in peter zinovieff's EMS studio in putney. this synthi confirms as one of the 3 synthi's that were used by the group during the early 70's. this specific one was howard scarr's personal synthi . cosmetics: considering the synth almost 40 years, and it's history, this synthi looks quite good. some scruffs and marks on the sides and on the front panel, some marks on some knobs caps, some of the matrix pins needs a replacement (still available at EMS) . but the overall condition is good, i would say at least 8 out of 10. electronics: DC power rails were checked and they both at -9v and +12v exactly as they should. power lines are clean and steady. no humming through the synth's outputs. some scratchy knobs ,and one broken (output off) switch lever. all the 3 circuits boards and connections looks clean and the parts looks original. the 3 circuit boards havn't been removed during the check. however, i would guess that it's time to service the synthi, replace/clean some of the knobs, replace some capacitors, fine tuning etc. quite a normal procedure for this equipment at this point. the synthi has some mod's which includes: center zero trapezoid, wave shapers, filter hi/ low, osc 3 frequency switch, and more. the synth functions has been tested (although it's quite impossible to test the endless possibilities and each of every matrix pin hole of that beast...) but i can say that all oscillators, noise source, VCA, filter, ring modulator, reverb, mic input's , outputs, envelope shaper, trapezoid, the meter, the internal speakers and the joystick are all working fine, and everything sounds great and beefy. the keyboard sequencer is faulty and partially works, it has some cracks and missing some parts on the upper case (see detailed pictures). with the right patch on the matrix, keyboard touch pads are responsive to touch and triggers sounds. the random pad is responsive as well and it triggers some random notes whan touched. but the sequencer doesn't work. all the mod's that i mentioned above are working and has effect on the sound. the keyboard control and keyboard inverter mod's needs a certain matrix patches (as seen on the stickers on the matrix) which i'm not familiar with, so i'm not quite sure how these mod's supposed to work. it is also impossible to test these mod's without a fully functional keyboard. during the last 20 years , this synthi was installed in a custom wooden rack ,in astral projection's studio, and it does'nt have the spartanite briefcase. update: the 'inverter pin' mod was tested as well, with the kind directions from Mr. Howard Scarr himself. this mod is fully functional and quite amazing. the pin acts like a normal pin , but it actually inverts the signal of where it's positioned (the frequency is controlled by the inverter blue knob), so for example you can output the normal output of osc.3 and at the same time output the filtered- inverted signal of the same osc.3. this opens a whole new world of sounds and possibilities... pure fun! please note: the synthi was throughly tested for more then 10 hours, and as far as i know (i own one Synthi Aks myself) it's in a good working order, and physical shape, however, this is quite an old piece of gear and it will be sold as is, no returns and no refunds. a great care will be taken when packing and handling/shipping the synthi, and it will be fully insured. i did my best to describe the synthi as accurate as possible, for more info, please contact: ofiroman@gmail.com some videos http://noisedesign.blogspot.com/2010/03/ems-synthi-aks-for-sale-some-videos.html"

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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New Run Original EMS Synthi A

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

"This is one of the last 40 EMS Synthi's ever to be produced. I've spent more than a decade on the waiting list for it. New orders are no longer being accepted as the Spartanite briefcases essential to the Synthi design are no longer available.
In other words, according to the manufacturer, this unit is among the last handful of Synthi's ever.

This instrument was meticulously hand-built and precision-calibrated earlier this year by Robin Wood of EMS himself. It's in absolutely perfect operational and cosmetic condition. It's also the only truly new Synthi I've ever seen on eBay.

I placed my order for this Synthi with EMS in the UK in 2001. It was finally delivered in early 2012. A few years after placing my order I got impatient and had the chance to buy an older Synthi A, so at the moment I actually have two units. The two are almost identical but the older one has more sentimental value to me, having owned & played it for almost 10 years. After long deliberation I've decided to sell this new one.

In terms of design, compared to the 70's units, the only differences I've spotted are a squarish attack button instead of a round one (the new design is an improvement over the older one, which was much harder to push down), and the fact that the label on the briefcase now reads "EMS Cornwall" instead of "EMS London" (the company moved). The operating voltage is still switchable between 110v and 220v via a switch inside the briefcase.

In terms of sound, comparing this to my 1970's Synthi I hear no differences in sound character or response; it has all the unique sonic character that Synthi's are legendary for, while at the same time being perfectly calibrated and sounding exactly as its designer intended. I've had the chance to try out several Synthi's over the past 15 years, and this sounds exactly like the older units, but without the inevitable scratchiness of used instruments.

This is a Synthi A, not an AKS. That means it comes without a keyboard in the lid of the briefcase; those were only available in the 70's.
It can of course be controlled by an external CV keyboard, or by MIDI with a suitable MIDI-to-CV converter. This is a "MkII" Synthi A, with a matte aluminium front panel, and output rows on the pin matrix.


The Synthi comes with all the original accessories: a full set of 18 patch pins (white, red and green), the power cord, and the 90-page "Synthi Educational Handbook" manual. Comes in original, incredibly sturdy, packaging as well."

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EMS SYNTHI 100 for Auction

via this auction

BIN of 45,000.00 GBP or roughly 63,964.41 USD according to XE.com
Details:
"For sale the legendary EMS SYNTHI 100 modular in great condition and fully functional - one of the biggest and rarest synths ever built, 33 units ever built - including many original accessories and non-working parts of the ultra-rare COMPUTER SYNTHI !

The Synthi 100 was entirely serviced, finished in January.
The unit is an early one. That is, the filters are diode based (like the VCS3) and not OTA based, therefore they are by far the best sounding of the 2 "revisions".
Probably the richest, creamiest HP I have ever heard.
Says who ? says me and James Walker (http://www.synthrepairservices.com/), one of the best specialists worldwide in this matter.

With the main unit come many original accessories :
- original double keyboard
- original wooden keyboard cover
- original cable from keyboard to unit
- 2 wooden covers to protect each matrix from dust
- original manual for the Synthi 100 : "Handbook for Synthi 100"
- Female and male plugs for optional CV/gate or MIDI remote control
- Large quantity of pins :
91 blue
69 white
48 orange
6 reds
1 pin with cable to connect to coloured connectors to control pulsewidth of waveforms.
4 cables with pins at both ends which allow connecting between matrixes.
- special modification adding the possibility of controlling the oscillators' waveforms pulsewidth, not possible on stock Synthi 100s.
- A big pile of empty Synthi 100 patch sheets
- Ignition key
- original expansion card for analog cards repairs
- not original expansion card for digital cards repairs
(with these 2 last cards you can repair your unit forever, without them it would be a folly to buy this synth as the day it fails you cannot repair it anymore)

Also included with all this will come non-working parts of the ultra-rare COMPUTER SYNTHI.
Note that there has been only 3 ever built, 1 of them being the prototype, so this is more than rare, this is almost unique.
They are 3 parts of the Computer Synthi plus very extensive schematics for the Computer Synthi in a "HandBook for Synthi - Computer Synthi" big black book (in case you know someone very good at music electronics who wants to rebuild it). Here you will find more infos about this :
http://members.tripod.com/werdav/comsynth.htm
They seem to be the 2 upper panels :
* 1. Two, digital tape decks mounted at the top left of the front panel.
* 2. An alpha-numeric display, user push buttons, and a digital oscillator mounted at the top right of the front panel.
Plus the other rack under the alpha-numeric display+push buttons which is maybe the 3rd part described :
* 3. Analogue to digital converters and digital to analogue converters both with software, range and offset controls - mounted at the bottom right of the front panel."

Present & Past: David Gilmore & Roger Waters on The EMS Synthi AKS

David Gilmour - Dark Side of the Moon on the run Synthi A

Uploaded on Dec 16, 2009 jerometv·82 videos

"David Gilmour from Pink Floyd explaining how they did On The Run on a EMS Synthi A"

ROGER WATERS & the SYNTHI AKS

ROGER WATERS & SYNTHI'S AKS
Uploaded by electro

via AnalogSuicide.
"1972 - Le légendaire EMS Synthi A K(eyboard) S(equencer) en action dans les non moins légendaires studios EMI d’Abbey Road (Londres), dans les mains du vénérable Roger Waters.

Ce dernier semble conquis par ce bijou technologique à l’allure de jouet, présenté dans une petite valise en plastoc, avec son clavier à surface tactile bleu et noir, ses boutons rotatifs en bakélite, ses switches aux couleurs vives, et sa matrice d’interconnections façon « touché-coulé ». Malgré son apparence inoffensive il s’avère assez redoutable à programmer et surtout génère des sons à vous retourner les entrailles. De plaisir.

Dans ce court extrait tiré du somptueux Live at Pompeii (version Director’s Cut) Roger et David (Gilmour) évoquent les technologies, l’évolution de la musique et les possibilités offertes par l’électronique. Ils conviennent que pour faire vivre ces engins il est nécessaire d’avoir la soul, la vibe, l’univers cérébral adapté qui seuls peuvent dompter la machine. Et non l'inverse.

L’extrait se termine sur un rush du très électronique « On The Run » figurant sur l’album Dark Side Of The Moon.

Pour plus d’infos sur le Synthi A (hors de prix !) :
http://fr.audiofanzine.com/produits/avis/index,idproduit,44003,mao,ems_synthi_aks.html
http://www.vintagesynth.com/index2.html
http://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electronic_Music_Studio
http://www.emsrehberg.de/SYNTHI__s/synthi__s.html (instrument VST, pour les fauchés)"

In Googlish:
"1972 - The legendary EMS Synthi AK (eyboard) S (equencer) in action in the equally legendary EMI studios at Abbey Road (London), in the hands of the venerable Roger Waters.

The latter seems captivated by this technological jewel at the pace of games, presented in a small suitcase in plastoc, with its keyboard surface touch blue and black, rotary bakelite buttons, switches its vivid color and its matrix of interconnections a "hit-cast." Despite his seemingly harmless it is quite daunting to program and especially generates sounds to you return the entrails. From pleasure.

In this short excerpt taken from the sumptuous Live at Pompeii (Director's Cut) Roger and David (Gilmour), evoke technologies, the development of music and opportunities offered by electronics. They agree that to sustain these devices must have the soul, the vibe, the universe adapted brain which alone can tame the machine. And not vice versa.

The excerpt ends with a rush of the very electronic "On The Run 'appearing on the album Dark Side Of The Moon.

For more info on Synthi A (excluding price!):
http://fr.audiofanzine.com/produits/avis/index, idproduit, 44003, mao, ems_synthi_aks.html
http://www.vintagesynth.com/index2.html
http://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electronic_Music_Studio
http://www.emsrehberg.de/SYNTHI__s/synthi__s.html (VST instrument for mown)"

Previously posted here.

SYNTHI-JS - Free Online EMS SYNTHI

This is pretty cool.

You can play with it here. Try loading some of the different patches. I noticed I had to turn up the volume a bit to hear the first two patches. Be careful of course. I'm not sure if any of the patches get considerably louder.

You can find the source code on github here.

Details captured for the archives:

"SYNTHI-JS is an emulator of the legendary EMS Synthi A modular synthesizer, built in JavaScript on top of the Flocking library.

Features

Devices
3 oscillators
noise generator
low-pass filter
ring modulator
analog-style reverberator
self-triggering envelope generator
16x16 control patchboard
Bidirectional joystick controller
Scope module displaying "voltage" over time
100 patch memory banks with import/export functionality and (new in v1.1!) 5 built-in presets
(new in v1.2!) File upload functionality for input sources via S3
(new in v1.2!) Customizable knob behavior
(new in v1.3!) Emulation of the EMS DK2 keyboard
Getting Started

First, open up SYNTHI-JS and take a look around.

SYNTHI-JS can look daunting at first, but creating patches with it is actually quite straightforward. The patchboard functions as a routing mechanism: device outputs on the left side of the patchboard get routed to device inputs on the top side of the patchboard.

Let's make our first patch! Click on the button at B1 at the patchboard to connect the sine-wave output of Oscillator 1 to Output Channel 1. You should hear a 440 Hz sine wave coming out of your left speaker – congratulations!

CLICK FOR MORE »

Update on EMS SYNTHI Production

via the sdiy list:

"15th February 2010

Dear xxx,

Thank you for your enquiry. After many long delays we are now expecting to re-
start production of the Synthi A and VCS3 at the end of this month.
We only have enough of the original Synthi A cases for 40 units, and when these
are all used-up we intend to redesign this product. Inevitably it will change
into something a bit different, but we have every intention of continuing with a
similar portable instrument.

In contrast the wooden cabinets for the VCS3 can still be made and we currently
have 30 ready for use in production. So we are hoping to continue to make this
available in its original form for several more years.

Please note that although we are not currently offering any keyboards for sale
(KS or DK2), we are hoping to make the mechanical keyboard DK2 available again
shortly after we have restarted Synthi production. We will also be trying to re-
introduce a variant of the KS touch-keyboard sequencer in due course. As yet no
price is available for either.

Many would-be customers have been waiting for several years for production to
restart, and we have been operating a waiting list system. The waiting list for
the Synthi A is already over-subscribed by double the number of available cases.
But people are still joining in the hope that enough of the long-term waiters
will have dropped out when we re-establish contact with them. Deposits for
Synthi As are now only accepted on the understanding that there is an
increasingly slim chance that one of the last original Synthi As will be
available to purchase. The separate waiting list for VCS3s remains open.
At the moment we are quoting a notional lead-time of 18 months for Synthi As and
VCS3s, although once we start delivering completed units we should be able to be
a bit more specific. Prices are 3000.00 GBP for the Synthi A and 3200.00 for the
VCS3 (excluding VAT - if you live in the EEC).

If you want to join the waiting list we just need a deposit in the form of a
personal cheque (NOT a bank draft), made out to EMS and mailed to the above
address, for the equivalent of 150.00 GB pounds (USD or euros accepted). We will
NOT attempt to bank or cash deposit cheques and at any time you can request its
return, for example if you managed to find a used Synthi on ebay or elsewhere.
To keep track of progress you are always welcome to email for an update.

The Synthis we are making are to the original Mk2 design using the original
components. Various modifications may be also added - a list is available on
request.
Let me know if you need any further information.

Best wishes - Robin Wood"
ems-synthi.demon.co.uk

SYNTHI CONTROL CONSOLE

More info via http://www.synthi.co.uk/:
"SYNTHI CONTROL CONSOLE

A new prototype of a console to control 2 EMS Synthi’s (either 2 Synthi AKS, 2 VCS3 mk2 or a mixture)

Features:-
· 36x48 Matrix patching capability using standard EMS patch pins.

· Connects to Synthi prestosockets via special umbilical cables.

· External CV and Gate inputs to Synthi 1 and 2 via 6.35mm Jack sockets.

· Connects to Synthi Jones sockets on Synthi 1 and 2 for switching control between either external CV/Gat or DK1/DK2/KS control via toggle switches. Connection via custom cables.

· 4 Inverter Input/Output channels on Matrix

· Synthi 1+2 Envelope Shapers triggered by +ve/-ve signals from Matrix.

· 8 Output channels (6.35mm Jack sockets) via the Matrix.

I have enough original 1970’s Sealectro Matrix panels to make at most 7 units. They may be offered for sale on a build to order basis.

Approximate cost around £1500 + shipping (user supplied pins)."

via the EMS SYNTHI blog

1974 EMS SYNTHI 100 Up For Sale

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

via this Reverb listing

"Up for sale is an original 1974 EMS Synthi 100 Synthesizer. I am the second owner of this amazing instrument. It is in incredible condition for an item of its age and size. Very few of these were produced in the early 1970s and most of them were sold to institutions, private studios and musicians - these almost never turn up for sale on the open market.

This particular Synthi 100 was one of the last produced by EMS (London) and has all of the standard factory updates including newer scope, sequencer memory display and patchable multimeter. below is a list of what is included with the auction:

CLICK FOR MORE »

1979 EMS SYNTHI E VINTAGE SYNTHESIZER SN 7137 & SYNTHI-E SAVES THE DAY COMIC STRIP

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

SYNTH-E Saves the Day comic strip and pics of the inside below.

"For your consideration is this vintage 1979 Electronic Music Studios (EMS) Synthi-E analog synthesizer. Experts have estimated that this incredibly rare synth was produced in limited numbers, in fact, most approximate that less than 200 were manufactured. Of those that have been documented, it is difficult to find a better example, especially such a fine specimen with the original matching DKE keyboard (serial number 7137) and original patch cables. While highly collectible Synthi-A versions are somewhat accessible, the Synthi-E is virtually E-xtinct. Do not miss this opportunity own one of the coolest and rarest synths ever made, because it is possible another will not appear available on eBay for years to come.

The Synthi-E was designed by Tim Orr as an educational version of the Synthi that had a complete teaching course built around it for use in schools. It was intended as a teaching aid into the principles of sound synthesis and electronic music. Small, housed in a brief-case and D-battery powered, the Synthi E was perfect for the student or teacher on the go! Simple as it may appear, it actually has some sophisticated features:

-Input Amplifier with low (Microphone) and high (line) level inputs
-Envelope Follower providing a voltage proportional to the amplitude of the input
-Oscillator 1 with true exponential voltage control of frequency and three simultaneous output waveforms (sine, triangle and voltage controlled pulse)
-Oscillator 2 for slow control voltages such as glissando or vibrato
-Filter/Oscillator 3 with v.c. low, high and band pass filter or pure sine wave
-Modulator for envelope shaping or ring modulation
-Noise Generator
-Trapezoid Generator for multiple simultaneous trapezoid waveforms. These may be used for envelope shaping (trigger mode) or for low frequency waveforms (free run mode)
-Manual-Slide tape Controllers (2) for obtaining control voltages. One slide-tape is stepped and may be used as a keyboard and the other for variable control. One provides a trigger pulse. Both may be temporarily marked or written on
-Inverter to invert control voltages or signals
-Monitor Amplifier and Loudspeaker with two input mixer faders
-The optional 3-octave keyboard for controlling the Synthi E. This unit is a mechanical keyboard which plugs into the Synthi E. It provides the correct pitch voltage and trigger signal for the Trapezoid Generator. A switch on the Synthi E selects internal or external keyboard operation.

Modules:
- VCF 144/1 (Issue F)
- VCF 144/2 (Issue F)
- L.F. OSC 144/3 (Issue E)
- Input Amp Env followr 144/4 (Issue E)
- TRAPZD GEN 144/5 (Issue F)
- VCA O/P AMP 144/6 (Issue G)

This unit is in excellent working condition, and it sounds incredible."

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EMS Synthi AKS & Extras

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

via this listing

"Rare transition example that has been used but very well looked after - supplied serviced and ready for use. Recent extensive servicing and modifications by Europe's premier EMS tech to create what we consider to be the ultimate Synthi AKS. All features are fully working and expertly calibrated. Includes many extras and upgrades (see description for full details). This is the AKS to buy if you want the maximum possible sonic options...

EMS Synthi AKS for sale in perfect working order - highly modified to be the ultimate AKS with an even greater range of sonic possiblities over a standard Synthi.

It comes complete with the following accessories:

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New EMS Synthi Faceplate

Image of the new EMS Synthi faceplate sent my way via ross. Click image for full size shot.

Via AH:

"I had talked to Robin Wood regarding production of the new Synthis. Apparently they will have 99% exact parts as the originals, the only being that the original reverb tank on the originals VCS3 and Synthi A has lapsed, and there is a comparable replacement. All the rest of the parts and circuits should be built to exact specifications as the original units produced from 1972 onwards. Although I had originally considered trading my Synton Fenix due to EMS lust, I think I am better off attempting to acquire one of Robin's new handmade units. I won't be able to easily replace the functionality of the feature set of my Synton Fenix, and it is far more rare of an instrument. My only apprehension is that Robin has stated that he would build units for the last 6 years, and it has been quite some time since they were produced. I think he is honest, and he has been absolutely helpful in my recent E-mail inquiries into his Synthis, however I am weary of waiting for many years in anticipation for a Synthi A, with the possibility that they may never be produced. Apparently he only has 40 Synthi briefcases left, so Synthi As will no longer be produced after this next batch. Furthermore, the company that produces the matrixboards for the Synthis is stopping production, so there is a new renewed urgency to finish production on these units, as well as to backstock this particular part for future repairs. Anyone on the list have a recent custom made Synthi from 1990-2001? It would be interesting to hear if these units differ from the originals, and how well they conformed to original specifications."

Update via Ross:
"Synthi differences

heard from Robin that there are more differences

1. no more Prestopatch ( see faceplate photo)
2. Pastel coloured knobs
3. no more sequencer
4. Joystick is not the same.

I wanted to buy an old silver face plate for my Synthi AKS as the china
graph is coming off, and was informed that the silver faceplate is no
longer being made.

I am desperate for anyone who has copied exactly the original
prestopatch Synthi AKS faceplate in any format pdf, etc or what ever
format as I want to get a new faceplate made up."

ROGER WATERS & SYNTHI'S AKS

ROGER WATERS & SYNTHI'S AKS
Uploaded by electro

via AnalogSuicide.
"1972 - Le légendaire EMS Synthi A K(eyboard) S(equencer) en action dans les non moins légendaires studios EMI d’Abbey Road (Londres), dans les mains du vénérable Roger Waters.

Ce dernier semble conquis par ce bijou technologique à l’allure de jouet, présenté dans une petite valise en plastoc, avec son clavier à surface tactile bleu et noir, ses boutons rotatifs en bakélite, ses switches aux couleurs vives, et sa matrice d’interconnections façon « touché-coulé ». Malgré son apparence inoffensive il s’avère assez redoutable à programmer et surtout génère des sons à vous retourner les entrailles. De plaisir.

Dans ce court extrait tiré du somptueux Live at Pompeii (version Director’s Cut) Roger et David (Gilmour) évoquent les technologies, l’évolution de la musique et les possibilités offertes par l’électronique. Ils conviennent que pour faire vivre ces engins il est nécessaire d’avoir la soul, la vibe, l’univers cérébral adapté qui seuls peuvent dompter la machine. Et non l'inverse.

L’extrait se termine sur un rush du très électronique « On The Run » figurant sur l’album Dark Side Of The Moon.

Pour plus d’infos sur le Synthi A (hors de prix !) :
http://fr.audiofanzine.com/produits/avis/index,idproduit,44003,mao,ems_synthi_aks.html
http://www.vintagesynth.com/index2.html
http://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electronic_Music_Studio
http://www.emsrehberg.de/SYNTHI__s/synthi__s.html (instrument VST, pour les fauchés)"

In Googlish:
"1972 - The legendary EMS Synthi AK (eyboard) S (equencer) in action in the equally legendary EMI studios at Abbey Road (London), in the hands of the venerable Roger Waters.

The latter seems captivated by this technological jewel at the pace of games, presented in a small suitcase in plastoc, with its keyboard surface touch blue and black, rotary bakelite buttons, switches its vivid color and its matrix of interconnections a "hit-cast." Despite his seemingly harmless it is quite daunting to program and especially generates sounds to you return the entrails. From pleasure.

In this short excerpt taken from the sumptuous Live at Pompeii (Director's Cut) Roger and David (Gilmour), evoke technologies, the development of music and opportunities offered by electronics. They agree that to sustain these devices must have the soul, the vibe, the universe adapted brain which alone can tame the machine. And not vice versa.

The excerpt ends with a rush of the very electronic "On The Run 'appearing on the album Dark Side Of The Moon.

For more info on Synthi A (excluding price!):
http://fr.audiofanzine.com/produits/avis/index, idproduit, 44003, mao, ems_synthi_aks.html
http://www.vintagesynth.com/index2.html
http://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electronic_Music_Studio
http://www.emsrehberg.de/SYNTHI__s/synthi__s.html (VST instrument for mown)"

EMS SYNTHI A Vintage Synthesizer w/ Manuals

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

via this auction

"Fully restored: in excellent working order and including 6 month warranty from Europe’s top EMS specialist.

Stunning sounding example: serviced and ready to ship. Tony says: “I’m always reluctant to let a Synthi go as they each have their own character and I’ve really connected to this one…”

EMS Synthi A for sale in excellent working order following a thorough overhaul and extensive testing (it’s a tough job, but Tony forced himself to do it 🙂 ).

Sonically and visually this is an early Mk1, but it has had some internal boards (that do not affect the tonality) replaced by early EMS Cornwall boards (see below for further info). Tony has tested this extensively and confirms it sounds just as he’d expect from an early Mk1: in fact he’s still not handed it back and is feverishly recording with it before someone buys it. Demos of Tony’s exploits with this Synthi are below.

New commission instruction: more info below from the technician who performed the servicing

This is a Mk1 Synthi with early EMS Cornwall replacement B and C boards. As the sound and character depends on board A and the matrix layout, this Synthi works and sounds as you’d expect from a Mk1.

Supplied with three EMS handbooks which contain essential and detailed information for the budding (or experienced) Synthi user: the VCS3 manual; The Synthi Book Of Sounds; The Synthi Educational Handbook.


CONDITION:

In very good overall condition, the face is clean showing some wear and discolouration as you’d expect from a vintage Synthi. It’s had an IEC socket installed in the past. The Spartanite case has had a hole blanked off near the handle and is missing its badge. The lid has the two mounting holes for a KS section (to make it an AKS) but as the joystick is the longer type and the power supply not upgraded for KS, it would appear that the lid is not original to this unit. Please see photos or get in touch if you require more information on condition."

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EMS SYNTHI A vintage synth + DK1 CRICKLEWOOD Keyboard SN 3416

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

via this auction

"Selling my original vintage EMS Synthi A with its beautiful original DK1 "The Cricklewood" keyboard, all in exceptional and fully working condition !

The Cricklewood keyboard is also fully original and complete except for the oscillator's frequency knob which has been replaced by a multi-turn pot for finer tuning and a switch at the back which allows to switch on or off the gate signal to the Synthi.

The Cricklewood ads a 4th oscillator to the 3 oscillators already present in the Synthi A making the system a 4 oscillator synth ! Plus it can emit dynamic control (velocity control) to any destination available in the matrix !!

Included in this auction are :
- the Synthi A itself with its 22 original patch pins and spartanite case (note the EMS blue tag on the case is gone)
- the DK1 "The Cricklewood" keyboard
- the power cable
- the cable linking DK1 to Synthi A
- the full EMS service manual of Synthi A/VCS3, DK1/2 keyboard & KS sequencer (although there is no KS in the unit I am selling)
- a soft black fabric case for the DK1.

Essentially the same instrument as the legendary EMS VCS3, and sometimes known as the ‘Portabella’, the Synthi A is a self-contained, analogue modular synthesizer system, literally built into its own (genuine) Spartanite attached briefcase. This is a very rare original working example of one of the most revered, versatile, fantastic, and ultra portable synthesizers ever made...

As far as I could see and hear, after several hours spent testing it as thoroughly as I possibly could, this amazing instrument seems to be in full working order indeed.
In spite of its age, all pots are noise-free and clean as a whistle, I have never come across any unwanted noise from them, and appear to function as you would expect them to.
Here’s a general rundown of the features of this particular Synthi A:
- 3 Oscillators - all with 2 waveforms and a very wide range
- Filter section - including self oscillating resonance and Stereo Output Filter
- 64 pin matrix routing system - providing infinitely variable configurations, mod possibilities, routings, you name it. It is essentially a 3 Oscillator (4 with the one from the DK1) modular analogue synthesizer packed into a relatively tiny space.
- Ring Modulator
- NOISE generator
- Looping Envelope Shaper - including Trapezoid
- Push Button Trigger
- Joystick - for cross modulation, bi-channel frequency control, panning, etc
- Stereo Audio Out - including individual panning controls for each channel
- Stereo Audio In
- Stereo Phones output
- Built in analogue reverb - really great, especially when it feeds back!
- Built in stereo speakers
- VU meter

And a few other relevant factors to note:
It’s an EMS SYNTHI A, and NOT an AKS - this means that there is NO 'KS' keyboard/sequencer included but there IS a DK1 which is far more pleasant to play.

All 22 original patch pins are included - there’s a couple of pins that sometimes don’t work quite as well as the majority of them, but apparently you can order more online if you want brand new ones

Prestopatch socket - as I don’t have a Prestopatch to try it out with, this is untested, so I don’t know if this works or not, but I really cannot see why it wouldn't seeing the working condition of the rest of the synth..."

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