Synton Fénix II Q & A w/ Designer Bert Vermeulen & Peter Kember Spacemen 3 @ Patch Point Lisbon

video upload by Dr. Wiener

"(Synton) Fénix II PP Presentation:
including Question & Answers with Designer Bert Vermeulen & Special Guest Interviewer Peter Kember aka Sonic Boom of Spacemen 3 Recorded Live at Patch Point in Lisbon.

All Audio is from the Camera Microphone.

You can Pre-Order the Fénix II PP here: https://patch-point.com/products/feni...
Links:
Bert Vermeulen : http://www.dutchsynth.nl/
Peter Kember : https://www.instagram.com/2020sonicbo...
Patch Point IG : https://www.instagram.com/patchpoint/
Patch Point Lisbon IG : https://www.instagram.com/patchpointlisboa/
Book the free studio s@/ Patch Point try the Fénix II PP in :
Lisbon : lisbon@patch-point.com
Berlin : berlin@patch-point.com
Ordering questions and more information : support@patch-point.com
Patch Point : https://patch-point.com/"

(Synton) Fénix II Trailer

video upload by Dr. Wiener

"All music /sounds Created using the Fénix II

Featuring the Fénix creator Bert Vermeulen and Sonic Boom aka Peter Kember of Spacemen 3.

Patch Point is super happy to announce we are putting the finishing touches on the Fénix II PP project and will begin shipping orders in the next 2 months."

Akai Introduces MPC Live II w/ Built-In Stereo Monitors / Speakers & Rechargeable Battery

Published on May 14, 2020 AkaiProVideo

"Introducing MPC Live II. The most portable beat making machine is now the most complete portable music production solution.

1:15 Hardware Overview
5:47 Beats & Production
8:00 MIDI Multi
9:41 Step Sequencer & CV Gate
12:08 Sample & Chops
13:35 Chords & Scales
14:59 Plugin Instruments
16:22 Mixing & FX
17:41 Audio Tracks
19:19 Sampling
20:37 Automation
21:26 Clips & Performance
22:33 Sound Content
24:15 USB Keyboards

MPC Beats Academy | MPC Live II

Published on May 14, 2020 AkaiProVideo

And the press release:

"AKAI PROFESSIONAL® INTRODUCES MPC LIVE II – THE FIRST MPC WITH BUILT-IN STEREO MONITORS
Standalone production capability, rechargeable battery, built-in monitors, CV/Gate connectivity and MIDI Multi functionality - MPC Live II is truly fit to carry the name of its predecessor

Ft Lauderdale, FL USA (May 14, 2020) — Akai Professional, a leading manufacturer of music equipment for performers and producers, today announced its newest portable standalone music production center, the MPC Live II, packed with all the enhancements from the recent software update for the entire MPC line, MPC 2.8.
MPC Live II builds on its phenomenally successful predecessor and introduces built-in monitor speakers for a completely standalone music-making experience. While traveling or in the studio, MPC Live II is ready to perform wherever inspiration strikes!

Standalone Music Production
Like the MPC X and MPC One, MPC Live II operates as a fully standalone music production center. MPC Live II is powered by MPC software – a unique hardware / software ecosystem that empowers users with the legendary, feature-rich workflow that has been used on countless hits since the introduction of the MPC series. The 7-inch, multi-gesture touchscreen enables producers to access all the features needed to create a beat or a recording from start to finish. MPC Live II also adds five new hardware buttons to improve the editing workflow. With features including Mute, Time Correct and Mix, users can edit and tweak tracks without skipping a beat.

Newest MPC 2.8 Software
New to Akai Professional’s standalone, multi-core powered MPC Series is MIDI Multi capability. The MPC Software 2.8 update, transforms MPC Live II into the ultimate MIDI sequencing studio centerpiece. Now users can simultaneously connect and route all the MIDI gear in their studio, including class-compliant USB Keyboards, MIDI interfaces and USB to CV modules, supercharging MPC Live II’s I/O capability. Fuse this with deep internal MIDI routing capability across tracks, comprehensive MIDI routing to any MIDI compatible synthesizer, drum machine or sound module, and even multitrack recording capability, and MPC Live II forms the beating heart of any production setup.

Built-In Monitors
MPC Live II’s built-in monitoring system offers a dynamic response spanning the full musical range, meticulously reproducing detailed high-frequency audio information while still delivering accurate low frequencies. From sharp, cutting hi-hats to punchy 808 drums and deep bass lines, MPC Live II eliminates all barriers between beatmakers and their music. MPC Live II’s built-in monitors not only provide a convenient set of reference monitors for studio use, but a great platform for listening, creating and collaborating on-the-go without headphones.

CV/Gate, WiFi, and Bluetooth Connectivity
With MPC Live II, complete standalone production capability fuses with an ultra-portable specification and an arsenal of connectivity options for complete hook-up flexibility with all your studio gear. With eight new CV/Gate outputs (four TRS jacks), producers can now incorporate modular connectivity into their MPC Live setup. Coupled with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, users can also enjoy the seamless side-by-side workflow of MPC and Ableton Live.

Rechargeable Battery
The most complete mobile production experience couldn’t exist without a reliable power source for long-lasting on-the-go sessions. The rechargeable lithium-ion battery gives you all the power you need for up to five hours of on-the-go music creation, so you can work wherever inspiration strikes.

16GB Sound Library
The MPC Live II comes with a robust 16GB sound library of high-quality samples and loops, including a new library from F9 Audio and the new Sonic Boom sound set. For those who need even more access to content, your Splice account curations are just a few taps away, with direct access via the 7-inch multi-gesture touchscreen and Wi-Fi connection.

MPC Live II Hardware Features
• Standalone MPC (no computer necessary)
• Natively powered by MPC 2.8 software
• Built-In stereo studio monitor speakers
• Internal rechargeable battery – up to five hours of on-the-go use
• Four TRS CV/Gate jacks (eight outputs total)
• Brilliant 7-inch multi-touch display
• Wi-Fi & Bluetooth connectivity
• 16GB included content
MPC 2.8 Software Enhancements
• MIDI Multi allowing users to record multiple MIDI or audio tracks simultaneously
• USB MIDI input and output support to work with any class-compliant MIDI device
• MIDI layering capability
• Time Correct enable/disable toggling
• Q-Link overlay display
• Edit Pad Map
• Available for MPC One, MPC Live, MPC Live II and MPC X
“We are relentless in our pursuit of the most comprehensive standalone music production experience,” says Dan Gill, Senior Product Manager for Akai Professional. “With every workflow consideration, every feature-set and function, we purposefully set out to create devices that are effortless conduits of the creative process. By incorporating stereo monitors, MPC Live II delivers every standalone tool producers and beatmakers need to capture inspiration wherever it strikes.”

MPC Live II is available immediately with a US retail price of $1199

MPC 2.8 is also available immediately as a free download for all MPC Live, MPC Live II, MPC X and MPC One users

For more information on MPC Live II and MPC 2.8, visit akaipro.com.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Noir Et Blanc Vie: Top 3 synths I REGRET not buying

Published on Jul 10, 2018 Noir Et Blanc Vie

"I think we all know this feeling, when we wanted to buy a synth and the price was right, but we passed it up. Now all we do is look back and think, if only we had got it right then. Now we live with synth regret, realizing that even though we could have the cost is just too much. Tell me in the comments the synths you passed up on and what you want, but may never own!"

What are you regrets?

A few I regret not picking up which were actually for sale were Delia Derbyshire's VCS3 Putney and a Synton Syrinx both being sold by Spectrum's Sonic Boom, the Jomox Sunsyn, LL Electronic Rozzbox, and an army green Waldorf Microwave 1. I regret them because they were actually attainable considering what they were. On the not so affordable list there were a few ARP 2500s, Emu Modulars, EMS SYNTHI 100, Buchla gear, EMS SYNTHIs, and Waldorf Waves I've spotted for sale over the years. And The Schmidt, let's not forget The Schmidt. I'm sure there were others...

I do have an OB-6 (desktop), and an XTk on Noir Et Blanc Vie's list and love them both. Never picked up an Easel though.

Roland JX-305 Back on the Dancefloor 2017 Groovesynth Synthesizer Rik Marston

Published on Nov 24, 2017 SynthgodXXX

"Roland JX-305 Back on the Dancefloor 2017
Synthesizer demo by Rik Marston
**Watch in HD** **Turn it UP**
**Sonic BOOM @ 07:27 Watch your speakers!**

I finally found a RESTORED, CUSTOMIZED JX-305
with BLUE LEDs and I am sooo happy about it!!!!
The JX-305 was my main synth in 1999, no joke!!
Here are 5 preset patterns that are just the tip of
the JX-305 groove experience! I LOVE THIS SYNTH!!
A Roland MC-505 Groovebox in a synth? No way!!
I love the JUNO-DS because it's sequencer is like
the JX-305 groovesynth... Now I have both to tweak
with!!! I have actually started my collection of Roland
Groove Gear circa 1996-1999 & a working JX-305 is a
MUST if you want to collect'em all! I will make a bunch
more JX-305 videos soon so SUBSCRIBE if you haven't
already! A TON OF GROOVE GEAR videos coming soon!!
Thank you for watching!!!
PLEASE Like, Share & SUBSCRIBE!!
Rik Marston
SynthgodXXX
Earth Empire
Ahnyxian Sound Design
11/24/2017"

Delia Derbyshire Honored with Posthumous PhD

via theguardian

"The under-appreciated electronic music pioneer behind the Doctor Who theme is to be honoured posthumously with a doctorate from her hometown university as the programme gears up for the debut of its first female lead.

Largely ignored in life and barred from working in studios because she was a woman, Delia Derbyshire, will be awarded an honorary PhD from Coventry University on Monday."

---

This one was sent in via MATRIXSYNTH Reader Gareth.

An interesting side note is that I once almost picked up Delia Derbyshire's EMS VCS3/Putney. Peter Kember, aka Sonic Boom of Spectrum and Spacemen 3 fame, was selling it along with a Synton Syrinx years ago, before I started this format of MATRIXSYNTH. I seem to remember he wanted around $7k or so for it at the time, but I might wrong. I didn't have the funds so I passed. Also, a little unknown bit of synth history is that EMS sent the BBC an EMS SYNTHI 100 during the time Delia Derbyshire was there, and she actually did not take to it. It is my understanding that she preferred to work with tape. Curious what she might have thought of a Buchla, as the focus of Buchla was to compliment electronic music composition on tape.

Panda Bear Synth Art

A friend of mine, Douglas, recommended Panda Bear Meets the Grim Reaper. I picked it up on vinyl, opened it up, and saw this image on the inner gatefold sleeve. How cool is that? You can clearly spot a Moog Voyager in the background and a Jomox XBase 999 in the foreground. There's also a some other gear, a synth cat, and a grim reaper with cables. One of the cables the reaper is holding wraps around Panda Bear and morphs into a scythe. Death by cable / death by synth / death by audio.

What is also particularly cool, and something you rarely see, are the synths listed in the liner credits. They are listed as follows:

Panda Bear: Jomox Xbase 999, Yamaha TX81Z, Moog Voyager, Elektron DPS-1, vocals, piano, effects & percussion.
Sonic Boom: EMS Synth AKS Synthesizer, Fenix II Modular, Moog Voyager, vocoder & effects.

Sonic Boom is the man behind Spectrum.  He has been featured here a few times on MATRIXSYNTH, including this post for his action figure. Side note: One of my biggest regrets years ago, before I started the blog format of MATRIXSYNTH, was missing out on Sonic Boom's Synton Syrinx and EMS VCS3 / Putney, which was previously owned by the one and only Delia Derbyshire. He listed them for sale on one of the synth lists. I forget which. Unfortunately, I couldn't afford them but I will never forget them.  It was one of those rare moments when you think, "Wow, that is something I will never see again.  I wish I were rich... "  Don't we all.  :)

Roland Introduces New TR-08 & Four Voice Polyphonic SH-01A Boutique Series

Here they are. Full details via Roland below.

Playlist:
Roland Boutique TR-08 & SH-01A with Mathew Jonson
One Take with Roland Boutique TR-08 & SH-01A: Mathew Jonson
Roland Boutique TR-08 Rhythm Composer
Hands on with Roland SH-01A, TR-08 - cdmtv
Introducing The Roland Boutique Series TR-08 and SH-01A | Reverb.com
Roland TR-08 Rhythm Composer | Reverb Demo Video
Roland SH-01A Bass Line Synthesizer | Reverb Demo Video
Update: New video added: Roland SH-01A Boutique Synthesizer QUICK DEMO

TR-08 details via Roland

"The TR-08 brings the look, sound, and feel of the original 808 — with stunning accuracy — to the Roland Boutique format. From the instantly-recognizable red-orange-yellow-white markings, the shape of the sequencer buttons, switches and knobs are details that have been painstakingly reproduced to match the iconic recreation of sounds. Along with the aesthetic touches, the TR-08 contains new features like 16 sub-steps for fast rolls, independent trigger out track, compression/gain/tune for instruments and a selectable modified “long decay” bass drum for more boom and resonance.

CLICK FOR MORE »

The First EMS VCS3 - SN 001

Apparently, you are looking at the very first EMS VCS3 aka The Putney and sibling to the EMS SYNTHI. Red Bull Music Academy has an excellent post up on White Noise with the history of this particular synth.

"Perched on top of a speaker in another corner sits the synthesizer used on the early White Noise albums, The EMS VCS3, serial number 001.

'That was the very first one he ever made,' Vorhaus says. 'He turned up with a bottle of Dom Pérignon, which cost probably more than the synthesizer.” The ‘he’ in question is Peter Zinovieff, who created the VCS3 with Tristram Cary and David Cockerell in 1969. If it wasn’t for Zinovieff, Vorhaus might never have met his two principal collaborators on An Electric Storm, Brian Hodgson and Delia Derbyshire, of the BBC Radiophonic Workshop. 'Delia Derbyshire was my girlfriend. She showed me everything that was known about electronic music in a couple of weeks,' Vorhaus explains, adding, 'There wasn’t much more to know than that then.'"

On a separate note, one of my biggest regrets was missing the opportunity to purchase Delia Derbyshires' VCS3 several years back. Sonic Boom of Spectrum was selling it along with a Synton Syrinx. Two dream synths I would have loved to own.

Sonic Boom talks about Patchblocks

Published on Sep 23, 2015 Patchblocks

"The awesome Pete Kember (Spacemen 3 / E.A.R. / Sonic Boom) was up for a nice interview and demo session with Patchblocks. Special thanks to Peter and Gus for this cool piece of footage ;-)"

Side note: I remember when Sonic Boom was selling his Synton Syrinx and Delia Derbyshire's EMS VSC3. I was so tempted to pick them up at the time, but I couldn't afford either. They've gone up in price considerably since then.

Coventry Synth Event Saturday Set for March 21st

via Thonk

"I’m proud to be sponsoring this Synth event which is taking place in Coventry in just under 3 weeks – Saturday March 21st. Come along and check out Thonk gear in the day and/or great music in the evening – Wrangler, Sonic Boom (Peter Kember, E.A.R, Spacemen 3, Spectrum) + Attrition."

BOOM SCHLAP CRKHE STZNHGURUA BGRBLEMHMPTY

Published on May 31, 2014 Dmitri SFC·134 videos

Sonic Potions LXR in Serge case.

EMS Synthi HI-FLI vintage synthesizer/guitar processor

This one is currently up for auction here.

"This EMS Hi-Fly come with its original pedal controllers from '70, it's very CLEAN hard to find in these conditions! and fully working of course. It's an awesome effect processor for guitars and Synthesizers, I used it on a VCS3 and now as extension on my AKS... sounds from Outer Space ;-) really impressive!

You can combine effects between: Octave Shift, Ring modulator, Fuzz, Amazing and unique Phaser, Wha, the legendary "Meow" vibrato and a complex Vco system for modulations.

It was uses from legendary bands in the past like Pink Floyd (David Gilmour), used today for electronic music productions, experimental music like SPECTRUM (Sonic Boom)

Working voltage is of 110 volts (USA standard supply) but of course usable with a common and cheap 220 to 110 volts converter."

STUDIO ELECTRONICS S.E. 1X Angel Dust Analog Synthesizer

via this auction

"Studio Electronics SE-1X NE Angel Dust Specs & Features
Innovative NEW LOOK!... Limited Edition with...
• TWO EXTRA SOUNDBANKS!!!
• Now with 693 total sounds
• ANGEL DUST FACE PLATE
• NEW Amp Overdrive for Saturated "Fuzz"
• Ultra fast ADSR for ultimate SNAP
• Expanded wide range Filters
• NEW added SINE WAVE GENERATOR for more BOOM
• Custom Scroggins Techno Sounds Bank

SE-1X Improvements on an SE-1 Theme:

CLICK FOR MORE »

EMS Synthi Hi-Fli vintage synthesizer / guitar processor

via this auction

"Very rare and beautiful EMS Hi -Fly with an unique SPACE AGE design...

This EMS Hi-Fly come with its original pedal controllers, it's very CLEAN hard to find in these conditions! and fully working of course. It's an awesome effect processor for guitars and also Synthesizers, you can combine effects between: Octave Shift, Ring modulator, Fuzz, Amazing and unique Phaser, Wha, the legendary "Meow" vibrato and a complex Vco system for modulations.

It was uses from legendary bands in the past like Pink Floyd (David Gilmour), used today for electronic music productions, experimental music ...like SPECTRUM (Sonic Boom) a great EMS Hi-Fly user

Working voltage is of 110 volts but of course usable with a common and cheap 220 to 110 volts converter."

Update: Also see:

Cabaret Voltaire & the EMS Synthi Hi-Fli

Thanks to redroom in the comments for the reminder.

EMS Synthi Hi-Fly rare vintage guitar synthesizer

via this auction

See the seller's other items for more.

"This EMS Hi-Fly comes with its original pedal controllers, it's very CLEAN hard to find in these conditions! and fully working of course. It's an awesome effect processor for guitars and also Synthesizers, you can combine effects between: Octave Shift, Ring modulator, Fuzz, Amazing and unique Phaser, Wha, the legendary "Meow" vibrato and a complex Vco system for modulations.

It was uses from legendary bands in the past like Pink Floyd (David Gilmour), used today for electronic music productions, experimental music ...like SPECTRUM (Sonic Boom) a great EMS Hi-Fly user

Working voltage is of 110 volts but of course usable with a common and cheap 220 to 110 volts converter."

CLICK FOR MORE »

SONiVOX Sampla

"SONiVOX Announces Sampla – Hip Hop Production Sampler
Premier provider of virtual instrument technology rolls out new Virtual Sampler Plugin for MAC & PC designed for Hip Hop Production

SONiVOX, Boston based virtual instrument manufacturer today announced the availability of Sampla - Hip Hop Production Sampler, an innovative new virtual sampler plug-in for MAC and PC designed for fast and professional quality sampling, and beat creation for hip hop producers everywhere.

Sampla’s unique design bridges the gap between MPC style sampling and the computer based virtual instrument environment. Sampla allows users to easily record, slice, loop, and assign (keymap) their own recorded samples as well as any of their own wav, acid, aiff, and mp3 samples. In addition to the flexibility provided by Sampla’s sampler engine, Sampla’s “Learn Mode” allows users to interface their MIDI pad controllers and controller keyboards directly with Sampla. Whether the user is using a midi keyboard, MPC pad controller, or just their computer by itself, Sampla is designed to put serious control in the producer’s hands.

Sampla’s innovative design and functionality doesn’t stop with the application itself. Additionally Sampla is packed with a diverse and extensive factory sound bank, all recorded and programmed by SONiVOX’s award winning sound design team, with over 250 high end instrument presets and pad layouts. Included are acoustic and electronic drumkits, basses, keyboards, leads, guitars, strings, brass, pads, vocals, symphonic construction kits, scensorship bleeps and blips, as well as a selection of loops from the SONiVOX LoopLine series, all designed to deliver superior sonic and stylistic versatility.

Sampla’s Key Features At a Glance:

MPC style editing & slicing for easy instrument & beat creation
Imports Wav, Acid, Broadcast Wav, Aiff, & MP3 Format Files
Easy to use record functionality for real time sampling
Over 250 factory preset instruments and pad layouts
16 user assignable pads
Tempo Sync Stereo Delay, EQ, and Chorus Effects
Assignable filter section with 10 filter types
Graphic waveform display with zoom, click, and drag functionality
Midi Learn & Save functionality, Sampla is instantly compatible with any MIDI keyboard or pad control
Pad-Specific Variable Resolution Note Repeat and Pattern Arpeggiation Mode
PC Standalone, VST and RTAS Compatibility.
MAC Standalone, AU, VST, and RTAS Compatibility.


Sampla - Hip Hop Production Sampler is a part of SONiVOX’s Hip Hop production line of products that also includes Playa: Hip Hop Virtual Instrument, and Playa: Aggro Electro Boom. Sampla is available now with a MSRP of $149 and an introductory street price of $99.

To find out more about Sampla or any other SONiVOX products please visit www.sonivoxmi.com

About SONiVOX

SONiVOX provides a multi-tiered suite of premier sound products that give voice to consumers ranging from professional musicians to over 100 million cellular users worldwide.

For years, SONiVOX, formerly Sonic Implants, has provided leading musicians and composers in the film and television industries with the tools needed to create world-class audio content for chart-topping movie, music and television projects.

Whether it’s high-end sound libraries & virtual instruments for leading Hollywood film composers, home-studio musicians, or millions of cell phone users, SONiVOX enjoys a worldwide reputation as a company producing "sound that rocks." For review copies and more information please contact SONiVOX at 617 718-0202 | info@sonivoxrocks.com. Follow SONiVOX on Twitter www.twitter.com/SONiVOX"

SONiVOX Sampla Hip Hop Production Sampler - Recording/Sampling Demo

YouTube via SONiVOXmi

CLICK FOR MORE »

SONiVOX Announces Playa – Aggro Electro Boom

"Premier provider of soundware rolls out new Virtual Instrument for MAC & PC designed for Hip Hop & Electronica Producers

SOMERVILLE, MA, August 7, 2009 – SONiVOX today released Aggro Electro Boom, a virtual instrument plug-in for MAC and PC designed for fast and professional contemporary beat creation for hip hop and electronic music producers. Aggro is the latest in the company’s “Playa” product family and carries an MSRP of $149 and an introductory street price of $99.


Aggro’s distinctive user interface allows effortless integration of midi keyboards and MPC pad controllers, bridging the gap between MPC style beat creation and the computer-based virtual instrument environment.

Aggro is packed with more than four gigabytes of instruments designed for sonic and stylistic versatility, including earth-shaking basses, blazing leads, trippy pads, slamming construction kits and more. All the sounds were recorded and programmed by SONiVOX’s award-winning sound design team.

Aggro Electro Boom’s Features At a Glance:

- Over 400 World Class SONiVOX Instruments

- 16 User Programmable and Assignable Pads – For quick and easy MPC style beat construction.

- Over 50 Pad layouts – Designed to get the producer going rite away with its construction kit layouts, diatonic chord layouts, drum kits, as well as user definable layouts.

- MIDI Learn/Save Function – Aggro ELectro Boom is instantly compatible with any MIDI controller.

- Independent Zone Tempo-Synched Variable Resolution Roll/Retrigger Mode - Tempo sync note repetitions and rolls to any pad.

- Onboard FX and Graphic Equalizer.

- Keys Mode – For standard keyboard play/performance.

- User Editable Envelope & Filter Controls.

- PC Standalone, VST and RTAS Compatibility.

- MAC Standalone, AU, VST, and RTAS Compatibility.


Aggro Electro Boom is available now with a MSRP of $149 and an introductory street price of $99.

For more information about Aggro, including audio demos and videos, please visit www.sonivoxmi.com."

Podcast: Sonic TALK133 - My APC Goes Boom Boom

On Sonic State

"We start off with a little speech synthesis courtesy of Expressivo.com, then straight into the meat with the Jasuto modular VST and iPhone synth, the Autogun free VST synth with 4 billion presets, a new SEM module from Tom Oberheim, APC40 hysteria is sweeping the globe, and finally the heart-warming story of Island Records who this year celebrate 50 years in business."

EMS Polysynthi

via this craigslist post

"Designers: Peter and Rose Zinovieff, (Delay by David Cockerell)
Four Octave keyboard with Aftertouch.
Four Octave Oscillator Bank.
Noise and External input with envelope follower.
2 x VC LFO.
2 x VC ADSR.
2 pole/4 pole VCF.
VC Analogue Delay(This was the original design for what is now the ElectroHarmonix Memory Man) .
Less than 30 built.

This is a very special, obviously rare synthesizer. It is in excellent condition. I purchased this from Sonic Boom of Spacemen3 and Spectrum(I can provide proof/put you in touch to confirm this if you'd like). I had it serviced by a very well known EMS tech in August 2008. There is no serial number on this unit but Sonic was told that it was #1 when he bought it back in the mid 90's. Cosmetically, the biggest issue is that the plastic frames around some of the switches are gone. I never spent any time looking for these but I imagine that they are difficult/impossible to find. There are small tears in the tolex covering. All switches and pots are working 100%. The only thing worth mentioning is that during the shipment of this from the UK to SanFrancisco, the C key got pushed in about 2 millimeters and will rub against the C# key when pushed all of the way down. I'm sure that it would be a simple fix for anyone, but it never bothered me."