Elka EK-22

Click the image for the close up. You can find more on synth.nl.

Elka EK 22

via this auction

"The ELKA EK22 was released in 1986 as one of the last synthesizer models from the ELKA synthesizer factory, and for that also one of the last Italian analogs, ending a great legacy that included the mighty Elka Synthex. What we have here is the usual 6 voice analog 2 oscillator synth with some exotic modulation, sync routings and multi stage envelope generators. Not quite an Oberheim Matrix 6 in its synth modulation capabilities but coming close and on some fronts even superior. A broad range of sounds is possible and its all there; haunting strings, eerie pads, deep monophonic portamento moog basses and leads, fine harps, metallic stuff, low-end brass etc. All with a very good character, tight and compact...a good punch but also enough warmth..Actually this synth sounds pretty darn excellent! I am pretty sure its got faster envelopes then a Matrix 6 and also sounds less gritty/grainy/plasticy. Its an often overlooked synthesizer, proberly not many were built and programming goes with the typical 80ies numerical interface. It also comes with a Rom cartridge containing an extra 89 preset sounds."

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The Top 100 Synths According to the A-Z of Analog Synths

via Ethan Callendar in the comments of this post. Thank you Ethan! Click the image to shoot Peter an email on the availability of the A-Z Books. I have them and they are very, very good - an absolute must have for synth enthusiasts.

"Here are the top 100 according to Peter Forrest's "A-Z of Analogue Synthesisers:

1. Moog Memorymoog (LAM)
2. Roland MKS-80 (w/MPG-80 + MKB-1000)
3. Sequential Circuits Prophet-5 (Rev 3)
4. Moog Memorymoog Plus
5. Sequential Circuits Prophet-10
6. Sequential Circuits Prophet-5 (Rev 2)
7. Oberheim Matrix-12
8. Sequential Circuits Prophet-T8
9. Moog Original Prototype
10. Oberheim Xpander

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