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"For sale is a one owner, all original, EMS Putney monophonic analog music synthesizer and Cricklewood keyboard.
This Putney is actually a VCS3a because it’s an early model, serial number 321.
Fascinated with the electronic music of the day, I purchased it and the keyboard new in 1969.
Here is what is right with it:
● Considering its age, It’s in very good condition. This package also includes the original patch pins, power cord, keyboard cable and vinyl cover.
● All the silver knob inserts are intact.
● The internal electronics are original. I have never had the synth or keyboard calibrated.
● I powered up the unit and checked the keyboard and all modules, matrix holes and pins, pots and verniers for basic functionality before having it professionally double boxed for shipment. In going through and listening to each module, I was reminded why I wanted the Putney in the first place. Its voice is unique and wonderful. Of course each oscillator’s pitch still drifts as much as when the unit was new. The keyboard needed to be "exercised" a bit before all its contacts functioned.
Here is what is wrong with it:
● Both reverb springs are in the reverb tank. One is still functioning, but the other is disconnected and lies loose.
● As is evident in the pictures, some of the wooden slots that hold the hardboard panels on the bottom and back of the main unit’s case have split off. I believe this happened while the synth was loaned to a friend. I never received a good explanation as to why. However, the panels still mount securely.
● Both internal speakers function, but one has a torn paper cone and sounds distorted (see photo)."
"This is a very special instrument played by Eric Bloom and Allen Lanier of Blue Oyster Cult both on tour and on several Blue Oyster Cult albums. You can hear it on the lead of "Flaming Telepaths" on 1974's "Secret Treaties" as well as on many other tracks during the band's recording career. It toured with BOC for most of the '70s and was retired to storage. Recently it was completely gone over and refurbished at dBm Pro Audio/Music Services in NYC and is now in perfect working condition. (receipt of $1200.00+ available with purchase). The wood is 'as-was' with used patina. It's both a collectible and working keyboard. Letter of authenticity from Eric Bloom."
