Yamaha CS-70M

We are Brokering this instrument for and on behalf of our UK customer

Servicing Status: KSR will carry out a full service of this CS-70M post-sale.

Remarks: 

This was one of those ‘time capsule’ moments when the owner of the CS-70M turned up with the instrument contained in its original retail packaging and revealed the best condition example I have ever seen in 22 years as a specialist vintage synth dealer. This CS-70M was purchased new by my Client on 25th February 1983. We have an image of the original sales invoice from 1983 (kept confidential but will be supplied to the new owner), along with all the original documentation, so the Owners Manual, Service Manual and the colour-printed Yamaha Sales Brochure for the CS070M (all pictured below).

The CS-70M has for many people been overlooked, overshadowed by its bigger brother – the CS80, but this instrument has ascended in popularity among aficionados, and we know this synth is highly sought after by those who truly appreciate it.

6 Voice, dual-channel (stereo), aftertouch, 30 memories, ring-mod, chorus & Leslie effects, lowpass, high-pass, and bandpass VCF, fully programmable and with a 4-channel polyphonic sequencer etc.

Those in the know will already tell you that this is one of the finest hybrid analogue polysynths ever made and a work of audio art in its own right.  It shares most of the same technology as the CS80 and many of the characteristics and tonal qualities as well. The big ‘plus’ over the CS-80 is the digital auto-tune facility that snaps the voice cards into tune upon powering up the synth.  These models do not suffer from any wayward tuning issues, so this was a step-change for Yamaha when this hybrid polysynth hit the market, of that over the CS-80 and its pure analogue foibles at least.

There are a few demos on YouTube of these but we like this rather ambient-noodling one from the Channel of MoreAnalog as it demonstrates nicely how the CS70M has that beautiful ambient CS80 vibe we love about this synth: 

https://youtu.be/1_jy9ERBTPs

Background:

As mentioned above, this is a remarkable single-owner example that perfectly meets all the criteria to be a fine collector’s item, as well as a usable musical instrument. This is a complete factory stock survivor machine, so has not been retrofitted with MIDI, and no holes have been drilled into its pristine case, so this lacks MIDI, but once you buy it then you can decide if that’s important to you to have implemented or if you prefer to retain its originality and collectable value by keeping it original.

The serial number for this CS-70M is: 1654

Condition:

The cosmetic condition of this example is exemplary with no perceivable ageing to the control surfaces. The faux wood laminate cabinet is in outstanding condition, unmarked, We would grade this as in Excellent condition – 10 out of 10 cosmetically…really.

All the original controls, slider-caps and knobs are present and everything still looks sharp and clean.  We have all the original manuals and other documentation as mentioned above. There is even the small rubber cover for the Keycode port on the rear panel still in place.

Operational Condition:

Operationally, our trusted and world-renowned ‘Yamaha CS Series restoration expert – Kent Spong of KSR, has already carried out a full service on the CS70M, so it’s 100% perfectly working and ready for its new owner now.  Servicing included re-capping the PSU, full system-wide test and calibrations and cleaning of sliders and pots where needed as the synth has been sat unused for some time so it did need some light attention, but we wanted a very light touch with this instrument. 

The only item that we need to report that is non-functional is the magnetic strip reader as there is a custom Yamaha IC that has failed on the reader and that part is no longer available. This is a very common problem on the CS-70M and we don’t currently have any workaround for this, so we are declaring it here so you have full knowledge when considering purchasing the instrument.

The CS-70M operates from 100V to 240V as there is a switchable PSU switch(s) on the back panel, and this Yamaha is supplied with its original & proprietary 2-pin power cable. The unit has been fully tested under UK 240V conditions at the KSR workshop.

Packing, Shipping, Insurance and Warranty: 

We can ship this CS-70M worldwide, although the packing, shipping & insurance costs are not included in the sale price below, so are subject to quotation.  As this is supplied in its original retail box, then we would have to order a custom sized export-grade cardboard carton that encompasses the OE box as well, so it will be a large and heavy.

There may be some short delays in getting the packaging materials produced for shipping as they are custom ordered for the specific dimensions of each instrument.  We are happy to discuss your requirements so please email us if you have any questions on the logistics and/or need a quote, but you are also welcome to collect it from us in person in Reading, UK.

As the instrument is being Brokered through RL Music, it will be sold with a full 3-month (return-to-dealer) warranty, covering all parts and labour.

Sales Price:  £11,990 GBP

VAT does not apply to UK buyers, however, the packing & shipping costs are subject to VAT @ 20%, should you need the goods shipped to you.  

Availability: 

This CS-70M is available for sale now.

Click on the thumbnail for a higher resolution photo of the actual CS-70M for sale.  If you require specific pictures not already featured of the instrument then please contact us so we can try and accommodate your request but there may be a short delay in getting this done for you as the instrument is currently in secure storage.

BUY THIS CS-70M

Wasp Deluxe & S...

We are Brokering this instrument for and on behalf of our UK customer

Came into stock: July 2022.

Servicing Status:

Full service by KSR has already been performed in July 2022, so this Wasp Deluxe & Spider Sequencer are ready for sale now.

Remarks:

A really fantastic condition example of the ‘luxury’ version of this classic mono synth – EDP’s Wasp Deluxe, manufactured from 1979 to 1981. The Wasp sounds thick and creamy and is undoubtedly a design classic, and so much so that a well-known synth manufacturer is building clones by the thousands in 2022. In addition, the Wasp comes with the original companion, EDP Spider Sequencer, so this has to be a collector’s dream.

The Deluxe version of the Wasp basically provided the owner with a more traditional wood cabinet, larger speaker and a proper 37-note keybed, so perhaps had more appeal to musicians that could actually play a keyboard rather than messing around with the touch-sensitive keyboard that came with the standard Wasp.

It’s rare to find these special editions, and they have become highly collectable.  The original EDP Wasp is a brilliant creation from Chris Huggett and brought analogue synthesis to many of us youngsters, who back in the late ’70s had little money to spend on our music passions.  We were very saddened to hear that Chris passed away on 22nd October 2020, another genius British synth designer gone.  Chris leaves us with a legacy that has already stood the test of time and popularity into the 21st century. Any of us could only dream of achieving so much.

The Spider Sequencer is also a super rare find and a super addition to the Wasp synth.  This is a 256-note step and 84-note real-time sequencer which interfaces with the EDP Wasp or Gnat. There are controls for entering notes in step/real-time and transposing sequences by semi-tones, whole-tones, major-3rd, or perfect-5th, as well as control for speed. It also has CV/Gate outputs for connecting it to other synths.

Background:

Our client has owned this Wasp Deluxe & Spider Sequencer since new, and looking at the condition of both units; we’d say that they were cherished and very well looked after.

Cosmetically, both machines are in outstanding condition, and as KSR has just completed a detailed service, they are 100% fully functional.

This Wasp Deluxe & Spider both operate via external 9V DC PSUs, of which two have been supplied by our client. The seq-to-synth interconnect cable has also been supplied. In addition, there is an original EDP Wasp user manual, which has to be collectable on its own!

Our client has asked us not to split the Wasp & Spider as they have been together for around 40 years, and we agree that it would be a shame to split them.

As these instruments are being Brokered through RL Music, they are sold with a full 3-month warranty.

Packing & Shipping:

We can ship these instruments worldwide, though the packing, shipping & insurance costs are not included in the sale price below, so are subject to quotation.  There may be short delays in getting the packaging materials produced for shipping as they are custom ordered for the specific dimensions of each instrument.  We are happy to discuss your requirements, so please email us if you have any questions on the logistics and/or need a quote.

Sales Price: £5,000 GBP (for both)

As this is a brokered sale, VAT is not applicable on this sale to UK buyers. However, packing & shipping/insurance is subject to VAT @ 20% should you need the goods shipped to you.

Availability: This Wasp Deluxe & Spider are SOLD – this listing was updated on Sunday 12th February 2023 @ 13:15 GMT.

Click on the thumbnail for a higher resolution photo of the actual Wasp Deluxe & Spider for sale.  If you require specific pictures not already featured of the instruments, then please contact us so we can try and accommodate your request, but there may be a short delay in getting this done for you as the instrument is currently in secure storage.

 

BUY THIS WASP DELUXE & SPIDER

Synthacon Mk1 Feb15

Synthacon Mk1

We are Brokering this instrument for and on behalf of our EU client.

Came into stock: December 2020.

Restoration Status: A full service by KSR was been carried out in December, so this instrument is ready for sale now.

Remarks: This Synthacon Mk1 forms part of a larger collection of vintage synths that we are brokering for our client. This Synthacon has been in our client’s collection for 6 years and was purchased from a Vemia action in 2014.

As you will see from the pictures, the overall condition is very good but the original laminate-wood cabinet has seen better days, but it’s 100% original to the synth.  It’s not a complicated cabinet to have reproduced, so whoever buys the Synthacon might like to have a new cabinet made for it, but this instrument is nearly 50 years old, so is entitled to show its age a little.

Rare doesn’t come close to describing how few and far between these vintage mono synths are these days, and once you have had the opportunity to play one you will understand why they never seem to come up for sale anymore.

There’s some information on the web about the Steiner-Parker Synthacon and its designer, but the fundamentals are that it’s a 3 VCO system that uses a diode-based 2-pole resonant low/band/high-pass VCF, and simple but clever modulation routing that gives this machine true sonic magic. You will read about the resonance power that does not diminish through the filter range…it’s true. The specs don’t really tell you anything really as it’s all about the sound and complex possibilities.

The Synthacon were designed and hand made by Nyle Steiner himself. They were produced under the synthesizer company called Steiner-Parker, which was a small business working out of Salt Lake City in the mid-1970s. The Steiner-Parker business was jointly owned by Nyle, Dick Parker, and a third partner. More info Nyle here: https://www.patchmanmusic.com/NyleSteinerHomepage.html

There were essentially 2 versions of the Synthacon, the Mk1 version we have here for sale, and the Mk2. The Mk2 was a duo-phonic version of the same instrument in effect, although the Mk1 is said to have the edge on the Mk2 in purely sonic terms – manufactured from around 1975.

These instruments were all hand made, and the design and construction of the synth reflect that boutique feel to the synth, but the heart of it all is the sound and flexibility of this unique machine. A true masterpiece of simplicity and power in such an unassuming package. A synth for the connoisseur you might say.

We all appreciate that there is a small, but very distinguished, list of vintage synthesizers that transcend all logic, commercially speaking. Why indeed we should want them so badly is sometimes difficult to explain, but electronic music instruments from Buchla, EMS, Serge, and many vintage Moog synths, etc., are all held in high regard for being something special…vintage in fact (by definition). The Synthacon is in this special group of exotic vintage electronic music technology. 

This Synthacon runs on US110V – the PSU cannot be modified to operate on EU rated 220V.  If it sells to a UK/EU customer then you will supply a step-down transformer to operate the synth.

We have a PDF copy of the user manual & service notes/schematics which we will supply.

As the instrument is being Brokered through RL Music, it will be sold with a full 3-month warranty and we can ship worldwide.  

Note on Demos, and because…Covid:  The Synthacon is currently based in Surrey (UK) with our tech, Kent at KSR.  Although there are strict Covid-19 restrictions in place throughout the UK at present, Kent has very kindly offered for anyone who would like to see and demo the synth before buying it, to demo it at his premises.  Kent is able to set up the synth in a place that meets distancing rules, that’s safe for him and the customer, so if you want to check the synth out then that option is open to you. 

Alternately (recommended), Kent can produce short video demo’s to show the working condition of the Synthacon, but this is by request only.  If we get a single request to do this then we will, of course, upload that to the KSR YouTube channel and probably just post it here in the listing, but Kent’s a very busy guy (good techs always are) so he’s not had the time to proactively do this for us and/or this Synthacon Mk1.

Packing & Shipping: We can ship this world-wide, although the packing & shipping cost is not included in the sale price below, and is subject to quotation.  Again, the Covid issues are affecting our packing suppliers, so there may be some short delays in getting materials produced for shipping, although courier companies all seem to be operating normally.  We are happy to discuss your requirements so please email us if you have any questions on the logistics.

Sales Price: £9,000 GBP

Availability: This Synthacon Mk1 is now SOLD, as of 29th March 2021.

Note on pictures, again due to Covid: Click on the thumbnail for a higher resolution photo of the actual Synthacon for sale.  Due to the Covid-19 restrictions, Kent has offered to photograph the synth at his premises in Surrey, so these photos come straight from him using the best photo-equipment he has available. It’s our workaround for the Covid issues/restrictions and we’re very grateful to Kent for helping us all out…but he’s like that.

If you require specific pictures not already featured of the instrument then please contact us so we can request that Kent at KSR can accommodate your request, but there may be a short delay in getting this done for us/you.

Pictures of the actual Synthacon Mk1 for sale are below.

BUY THIS SYNTHACON

EDP Wasp Deluxe

We are Brokering this instrument for and on behalf of our UK customer

Came into stock: October 2020.

Servicing Status: A full health-check by KSR has already been carried out in September 2020, so this Wasp Deluxe is ready for sale now.

Remarks: A really fantastic condition example of the ‘luxury’ version of this classic mono synth – EDP’s Wasp Deluxe, manufactured from 1979 to 1981. The Wasp sounds thick and creamy and is without a doubt a design classic, and so much so that a well-known synth manufacturer is building clones by the thousands in 2020.

The Deluxe version basically provided the owner with a more traditional wood cabinet, larger speaker and a proper 37 note key-bed, so perhaps had more appeal to musicians that could actually play a keyboard rather than messing around with the touch-sensitive keyboard that came with the standard Wasp.

It’s a rare thing to find these special editions and looking at historical sales data, they have become highly collectable.  The original EDP Wasp is a brilliant creation from Chris Huggett and brought analogue synthesis to a lot of us youngsters back in the late ’70s who had little money to spend on our music passions.  We were very saddened to hear the Chris has passed away on 22nd October, another genius British synth designer gone.  Chris leaves us all with a legacy that has already stood the test time and popularity into the 21st century, any of us could only dream of achieving so much. 

Kent at KSR confirmed that this Wasp Deluxe is actually signed inside by Chris Huggett, so this was actually built by him!

Our client has not owned this Wasp Deluxe very long, having purchased it as a fully serviced example from a UK synth dealer in 2019, but he commissioned KSR to fully health-check the synth to ensure it’s 100% before placing it up for sale through us.

It’s been very well cared for, and cosmetically speaking, is in good condition, with only the expected amount of wear to the control surfaces. All the controls work perfectly, and the original wood cabinet is in very nice condition aside from some damage to the back, which you can see in the photo below.

This Wasp Deluxe operates via the external 9V DC PSU.  We were not supplied with one but a brand new external PSU will be supplied with the Wasp.

As the instrument is being Brokered through RL Music, it will be sold with a full 3-month warranty and can be shipped worldwide.

Note on Demos, and because…Covid:  The Wasp Deluxe is currently based in Surrey (UK) with our tech, Kent at KSR.  Although there are strict Covid-19 restrictions in place throughout the UK at present, Kent has very kindly offered for anyone who would like to see and demo the Wasp Deluxe before buying it, to demo it at his premises.  Kent is able to set up the synth in a place that meets distancing rules, that’s safe for him and the customer, so if you want to check the synth it out then that option is open to you. 

Alternately (recommended), Kent can produce short video demo’s to show the working condition of the Wasp, but this is by request only.  If we get a single request to do this then we will, of course, upload that to the KSR YouTube channel and probably just post it here in the listing, but Kent’s a very busy guy (good techs always are) so he’s not had the time to proactively do this for us and/or this EDP.

Packing & Shipping: We can ship this world-wide, although the packing & shipping cost is not included in the sale price below, and is subject to quotation.  Again, the Covid issues are effecting our packing suppliers, so there may be some short delays in getting materials produced for shipping, although courier companies all seem to be operating normally.  We are happy to discuss your requirements so please email us if you have any questions on the logistics.

Sales Price: £3,990 GBP.

Availability: This Wasp Deluxe is now SOLD, this page was updated on 18th November 2020.

Note on pictures, again due to Covid: Click on the thumbnail for higher resolution photo of the actual Wasp Deluxe for sale.  Due to the Covid-19 restrictions, Kent has offered to photograph the E1 at his premises in Surrey, so these photos come straight from him using the best photo-equipment he has available. It’s our workaround for the Covid issues/restrictions and we’re very grateful to Kent for helping us all out.

If you require specific pictures not already featured of the instrument then please contact us so we can request that Kent at KSR can accommodate your request, but there may be a short delay in getting this done for us/you.

BUY THIS WASP DELUXE

EML ElectroComp 101

We are Brokering this EML-101 for a UK customer.

Came into stock: October 2019.

Restoration Status: KSR has already health-checked this pre-restored instrument and gave a 100% pass, so it’s ready for sale now.

Remarks: A super condition example of a rare machine to see available for sale these days and in the scheme of things, not all that well known either.  To any aficionado of vintage analogue synthesisers, Electronic Music Laboratories involvement with music instrument goes back to the late 1960s, and much like the British EMS products, share a similar boutique feel to them, was sold to education facilities (universities and schools etc.) and oozes charter and uniqueness.  

The EML-101 was the third product to come out of Connecticut, in the USA, from 1972 and much like the Arp 2600, is 4 x VCO, 3 x VCF semi-modular system that offers duo phonic operation and patchable break-out to really dig into the sound design possibilities.  The architecture of the EML differs from what Arp and Moog were doing in their designs at that time as it uses op-amps to deliver much from stability in tuning, and reliability in general.

This particular example has been subjected to a sympathetic restoration, having a beautifully made wood cabinet & catches/handles for the keyboard and main synth.  The main control panel was left original, so shows a natural patina for its age, retaining that vintage feel and look.  Internally, the circuits are all in outstanding condition, being well mounted internally and of course, the whole system is fully operational.  The keyboard has had new bushes fitted and plays beautifully.  The mains transformer has been upgraded to a high-quality toroidal one with a very professionally installed voltage rectifier circuit. It operates on 220~240V rather than the original US voltage – this has made the 101 very stable and it has a very low noise floor. Surprisingly so for such an old instrument (47 years at most).

Our client, the owner, did not commission the restoration, so we don’t have any information on who did the work, but it’s of the very highest standard and certainly equal to anything we could have achieved if it had been one of our own projects.

Our client purchased the EML-101 from a Swedish collector/musician about 3 years ago, so it’s not been in his possession all that long, but they told us that It is an early version as it doesn’t have the ‘SEQ IN’ socket on the patch-bay, but has the ‘CM2’ out socket.

Kent at KSR has given a full health-check of the EML-101 and told us ‘it was perfect’ so there were no service items to carry out.  This verifies what our client told us as well, so we’re confident this is ready for sale and shipping now.

As mentioned above, the EML-101 runs on 220~240V, sold with a full 3-month warranty and a copy of the owners manual will be supplied (PDF) as well.

Price: £3,200 GBP.

Availability: This EML-101 is now SOLD, as at 10th March 2020.

Click on the thumbnails for higher resolution photos of actual EML-101 for sale.

BUY THIS EML-101

Roland Jupiter 6

We are Brokering this instrument for and on behalf of our UK client

Came into stock:  Available from RL Music as at 13th July 2018.

Restoration Status: A full service by KSR has already been carried out (completed in July 2018), so this Jupiter 6 is ready for sale now.

Remarks: This Jupiter 6 was purchased new by our client in the early 1980s, and only ever used in the home. The cosmetic condition is outstanding and the whole synth only shows very light indications of use & ware – this is remarkable for a keyboard over 35 years old! We would grade this as a 9 out of 10 cosmetically, Collector-Grade!

The Jupiter 6 has been a hugely popular polysynth since its arrival in 1983 and offers aficionados that beautiful vintage polyphonic analogue Roland sound for a very reasonable cost, certainly when compared to its sibling, the Jupiter 8. Prices for these models in recent years has seen a significant uplift as vintage polysynths are getting more and more rare to find in good condition, let alone the condition of this example we have available.

This JP6 has not had any modifications to its factory spec. This is often important for buyers who prefer to either leave them as stock or upgrade them according to their own needs & budget, depending on what retrofit solutions may be available in the marketplace.

The Jupiter 6 is a professional-grade vintage instrument that’s only ever going to become more sought after and rarer, so here is your opportunity to buy a beautiful condition example, fresh from the hands of a master synth restorer (Kent Spong), and fully guaranteed by RL Music.

Runs on EU 220V or 110V (switchable) and is supplied with the original Roland owners manual.

Price: £3390 GBP.

Availability: This Roland Jupiter 6 is now SOLD, as at 14th May 2019.

Click on the thumbnail for higher resolution photo of the actual Jupiter 6 for sale.

BUY THIS JUPITER 6

Roland Jupiter 6

We are Brokering this instrument for and on behalf of our UK client

Came into stock:  Available from RL Music as at 29th June 2018

Restoration Status: A full service by KSR has already been carried out (completed in June 2018), so this Jupiter 6 is ready for sale now.

Remarks: This Jupiter 6 came to us as part of a larger collection of vintage synths that we are brokering as part of an Estate clearance. The owner of this JP6 had this beautiful synthesizer maintained with no expense spared, so this synth literally feels and plays like brand new..amazing!

Like all the vintage synths we are Brokering for the estate, this Jupiter 6 is in exemplary condition, and we would describe it as looking ‘nearly new’ to even the closest inspection. Operationally it’s 100% perfectly working and cosmetically pristine – we would grade this as a 9.9 out of 10 cosmetically, Collector-Grade!

The Jupiter 6 has been a hugely popular polysynth since its arrival in 1983 and offers aficionados that beautiful vintage polyphonic analogue Roland sound for very reasonable cost, certainly when compared to its sibling, the Jupiter 8. Prices for these models in recent years has seen a significant uplift as vintage polysynths are getting more and more rare to find in good condition, let alone the immaculate condition of this one.

This example has not had any modifications to its factory spec. This is often important for buyers who prefer to either leave them as stock or upgrade them according to their own needs & budget, depending on what retrofit solutions may be available in the marketplace.

The Jupiter 6 is a professional-grade vintage instrument that’s only ever going to become more sought after and rarer, so here is your opportunity to buy ‘nearly new’ condition example, fresh from the hands of a master synth restorer, and fully guaranteed.

Runs on EU 220V or 110V (switchable) and is supplied with a PDF copy of the Roland owners manual.

Price: £3500 GBP.

Availability: This Roland Jupiter 6 is now SOLD as at 9th July 2018.

Click on the thumbnail for higher resolution photo of the actual Jupiter 6 for sale.

BUY THIS JUPITER 6

Studio Electronics C...

We are Brokering this instrument for and on behalf of our UK customer

Came into stock: Available from RL Music from 6th November 2017

Restoration/Servicing Status: KSR to service once sold, and prior to shipping to the new owner.

Remarks: Not a vintage synth, but the Studio Electronics Code 8 has a mighty reputation and is a proper discrete-built analogue poly synth – a serious pro-audio instrument, and a modern classic without any doubt.

This CODE 8 was purchased new buy our client in 2013 from sxpro in London, and was fitted with the 8 x Arp 2600 Filters and the 8 x CS80 Filters upgrade options. It has never been racked, and has sat in his smoke free home studio in the UK since with very little use, hence the decision to sell it to fund new projects.

The synth is in perfect operational and the main control surface is in mint cosmetic condition, as you would expect for something 4 years old, although there are some marks on the large printed logo on the top of the instrument. We will have the synth fully checked over post-sale. It will be supplied with the original owners manual and retail box (as pictured).

As with all Brokered Sales, the synth will be fully serviced post-sale before it’s sent to its new owner. We do this to ensure that the instrument leaves us in perfect operational condition, and it is backed up by our full warranty to give the new owner complete peace of mind. The servicing is carried out as a priority once the sale has been completed, and although it will delay shipping/delivery by a short time, we know from experience that customers are happy to wait.

This CODE 8 is sold with a 3 month RL Music warranty and runs on either 110V or 220V.

Price: £4500 GBP – price includes the 8 x Arp 2600 and 8 x CS80 Filters.

Availability: This CODE 8 is no longer available for sale – updated 4th July 2018.

Pictures of the actual CODE 8 for sale (customer supplied) are below.

BUY THIS CODE 8

Moog System 15 &...

We are Brokering this instrument for and on behalf of our UK customer

Came into stock: August 2016.

Restoration Status: KSR have already fully undertaken a full overhaul of the System 15 and 950 Keyboard in Nov 2016, so both items are ready for sale now.

Remarks: We have been given a unique opportunity here as this vintage original Moog System 15 & 950 Keyboard are owned by the son of the late Johnny Arbiter, who many of you will know, was the owner/operator (post 1990) of the famous Turnkey music retail business in London. Johnny died in 2003, and much of the collection of vintage keys that formed part of the Turnkey studio museum passed to his son, Dan Arbiter – our client.

We weren’t given a lot of detailed background information on this Moog System 15 & 950 Keyboard, but they certainly were in the Turnkey collection for some years (post 1990), although they have been in storage since around 2005, hence our client had commissioned KSR to undertake a full systems-wide overhaul of both instruments, to prepare them for sale.

Notes on the cosmetic condition:

Both units are in very good original condition. The original Tolex on the System 15 is in remarkable order with no tears, and the nickel hardware all showing a beautiful vintage patina. The 950 keyboard has it’s original wood cabinet which is in good condition, although does have a few signs of natural ageing and use, but the keys are undamaged, having an even colour. The module faceplates themselves are in excellent condition (as are the internal circuits), so we would rate both items as 9 out of 10 cosmetically – collector grade. Both items have not had any deeper cosmetic treatments (like re-tolexing or new wood cabinets etc.), so these would appeal to a more purist collector/enthusiast looking for a more authentic vintage look.

Notes on the restoration:

An IEC socket was fitted sometime during the lifetime of the System 15 to enable the system to be used in the UK, and although the power-supply has been reconditioned, it runs on US 110V (the transformer can’t be modified to run EU 220V). Originally, the system was supplied from Moog with the standard 3-pin US power-socket from the factory back in the 1970s.

All the 1/4 inch jack-sockets have been replaced with high-quality Switchcraft® panel mount sockets to improve connectivity. KSR implemented this upgrade as 40+ year old sockets can be very intermittent in connection, regardless of cleaning, and this can be very frustrating for users of voltage controlled/audio systems like these.

Our vintage Moog restoration expert, Kent Spong of KSR, undertook an extensive ground-up restoration on the System 15 & 950 Keyboard Controller between August and November 2016. Other than the items noted above in the ‘modifications’ paragraph, no components that effected the sound character of the Moog were replaced (or needed to be in fact). We retained the original knobs though as these are a major cosmetic component to the aesthetic of this authentic vintage instrument.

Configuration Top to bottom:

As was typical with these earlier Moog Music Inc. System 15, they contain a mixture of RA Moog and later Moog Music inc. modules. The earliest module in the cabinet is dated November 1973 but the majority are dated 1974, so we can arguably date the production of the system from around that time.

907 Fixed Filter Bank (RA Moog)
904A Low Pass Filter
911 Envelope Generator
902 Voltage Controller Amplifier (RA Moog)

921A Oscillator Driver
921B Voltage Controlled Oscillator
921B Voltage Controlled Oscillator
921 Voltage Controlled Oscillator
923 Noise Source w/ LP and HP Filters
911 Envelope Generator
902 Voltage Controller Amplifier (RA Moog)

CP3 Mixer
– Reversible Attenuator
Controller Output
Trunk Lines
Power

This Moog Modular System 15 & 950 Keyboard are sold with a 3 month warranty, and as mentioned above, runs on US 110V. We were not supplied with any 1/4 inch jacks or cinch-jones S-Trig cables, although Synthesizers.com can supply these from new (recommended) here: http://www.synthesizers.com/qmse.html

We can ship world-wide, so please ask us for a packaging & shipping quote for your preferred destination address.

Price: £14990 GBP.

Availability: This Moog Modular System 15 & 950 Keyboard are now SOLD as at 24th March 2017.

Pictures supplied below are of the actual System 15 & keyboard, but more high-res pictures will be available shortly.

 

BUY THIS MOOG SYSTEM 15

Synthacon Mk1

Steiner-Parker Synthacon Mk1

‘Rare’ doesn’t come close to describing how few and far between these vintage monosynths are these days, and once you have had the opportunity to play one you will understand why they never seem come up for sale anymore.

There’s some information on the web about the Steiner-Parker Synthacon and its designer, but the fundamentals are that it’s a 3 VCO system that uses a diode based 2-pole resonant low/band/highpass VCF, and simple but clever modulation routing that gives this machine true sonic magic. You will read about the resonance power that does not diminish thought the filter range…it’s true. The specs don’t really tell you anything really as it’s all about the sound and complex possibilities.

The Synthacons were designed and hand made by Nyle Steiner himself. The were produced under the synthesizer company called Steiner-Parker, which was a small business working out of Salt Lake City in the mid 1970s. The Steiner-Parker business was a jointly owned by Nyle, Dick Parker and a third partner. More info Nyle here: http://www.patchmanmusic.com/NyleSteinerHomepage.html

There were essentially 2 versions of the Synthacon, the Mk1 version we have here for sale, and the Mk2. The Mk2 was a duophonic version of the same instrument in effect, although the the Mk1 is said to have the edge on the Mk2 in pure sonic terms – manufactured from around 1975.

These instruments were all hand made, and the design and construction of the synth reflects that boutique feel to the synth, but the heart of it all is the sound and flexibility of this unique machine. A true masterpiece of simplicity and power in such an unassuming package. A synth for the connoisseur you might say.

We all appreciate that there are a small, but very distinguished, list of vintage synthesizers that transcend all logic, commercially speaking. Why indeed we should would want them so badly is sometimes difficult to explain, but electronic music instruments from Buchla, EMS, Serge, and many vintage Moog synths etc., are all held in high regard for being something special…vintage in fact (by definition). The Synthacon is in this special group of exotic vintage electronic music technology.

This actual instrument had gone through a complete professional cosmetic & operational restoration in the USA in 2012, and we imported it into the UK to be part of our private collection. This immaculate Synthacon Mk1 has been in our possession since, and will be fully serviced prior to shipping to its new owner, and of course, sold with a full warranty. We are selling it as we already have 2 other Synthacons in our collection, so have decided to release this beautiful synth back to the market for someone else to enjoy.

This Synthacon runs on 110V. We decided to keep it original and not replace the power-supply to a EU rated 220V unit to keep it an authentic as possible. If it sells to an EU customer then we will supply a step-down transformer to operate the synth, free of charge.

We also have a PDF copy of the owners manual & service notes/schematics which we will supply.

Guide Price: £8490 GBP.

Availability: This Steiner-Parker Synthacon Mk1 is now SOLD as at 20th December 2016.

Picture of actual Synthacon Mk1 for sale below, so please click on the Thumbnails for higher resolution photos.

BUY THIS SYNTHACON

Synthacon Mk2

We are Brokering this instrument for and on behalf of our client in the USA

Another ultra-rare version of this amazing vintage synthesizer, the Mk2 Synthacon is a truly outstanding mono-synth that is on of the worlds best kept synth-secrets.

The Synthacon is a 3 VCO system that uses a diode based 2-pole resonant low/band/highpass VCF, and simple but clever modulation routing that gives this machine true sonic magic. The resonance power does not diminish thought the filter range – stunning!. The specs don’t really tell you anything really as it’s all about the sound and complex possibilities.

The Synthacons were designed and hand made by Nyle Steiner himself. The were produced under the synthesizer company called Steiner-Parker, which was a small business working out of Salt Lake City in the mid 1970s. The Steiner-Parker business was a jointly owned by Nyle, Dick Parker and a third partner. More info Nyle here: http://www.patchmanmusic.com/NyleSteinerHomepage.html

There were essentially 2 versions of the Synthacon – we also have a immaculate Mk1 for sale at the moment, but we present here the duophonic Mk2 version, which is distinctive in its black-face livery.

This actual instrument has just gone (Nov 2015) through a complete professional cosmetic & operational restoration in the USA, so is sold with a full warranty. Here is a summary of the work completed:

Power supply rebuilt, all capacitors replaced (circuitry, audio, PSU), all controls cleaned (pots, jacks, switches), replaced fuse, replaced trigger button, replaced all switch-nuts, keyboard completely rebuilt (buss-bars + j-wire polished, all pivot points re-lubed, new bushings), and completely calibrated. Also has new keys, new screws, new handle, new walnut wood cabinet, and new knobs.

This Mk2 Synthacon is in outstanding cosmetic condition, but there is a mark in the VCO 3 section that you can see from the pictures. We mention this for full disclosure, but the panel has been left completely original to retain its authenticity, although this could be restored by us in the UK if preferred (a costed option – please enquire).

These instruments were all hand made, and the design & construction of the synth reflects that (genuine) boutique feel to the synth, but the heart of it all is the sound and flexibility of this unique machine. A true masterpiece of simplicity and power in such an unassuming package. A synth for the connoisseur you might say.

We all appreciate that there are a small, but very distinguished, list of vintage synthesizers that transcend all logic, commercially speaking. Why indeed we should would want them so badly is sometimes difficult to explain, but electronic music instruments from Buchla, EMS, Serge, and many vintage Moog synths etc., are all held in high regard for being something special…vintage in fact (by definition). The Synthacon is in this special group of exotic vintage electronic music technology.

The Synthacon Mk2 is based in the USA (runs on 110V), so the cost of shipping, and any applicable import duties are not covered in the advertised sales price below. For a quote to ship it to you the please contact Richard at RL Music directly to discuss your requirements etc.

Guide Price: £8490 GBP.

Availability: This Steiner-Parker Synthacon Mk2 is no longer available for sale, this listing was updated in November 2015.

Pictures of actual Synthacon Mk2 for sale are below (client supplied), so please click on the Thumbnails for higher resolution photos.

BUY THIS SYNTHACON Mk2

ELKA SYNTHEX Mk2

We are Brokering this instrument for and on behalf of our customer

Came into stock: 125th February 2014

Servicing Status: Full service by KSR will commence post-sale.

Remarks: A nice condition of the mid version (Mk2) Elka Synthex – with the factory MIDI option delivered through break-out-MIDI cables (supplied)

This has to be the one of the finest analogue polysynths ever made and was used by all the top artists of the 80’s, especially JMJ.  Built in 4 track sequencer 8 voice polyphonic, twin oscillator 24 dB/octave low pass filter 6 & 12 dB/octave band pass filters 12 dB/octave high pass filter. The specification doesn’t tell you that this is a silky smooth performer and in the right hands can deliver and almost polyphonic modular experience…just an amazing machine.

The overall condition of this Synths is very good indeed and representative of a well looked after 30+ year old vintage synth with just the normal signs of wear to the panels and wood cabinet.

Runs on EU 220V, and is sold with a full RL music 3 month warranty.

As with all Brokered Sales, the synth will be fully serviced post-sale before it’s sent to its new owner. We do this to ensure that the instrument leaves us in perfect operational condition, and it is backed up by our full warranty to give the new owner complete peace of mind. The servicing is carried out as a priority once the the sale has been completed, and although it will delay shipping/delivery by a short time, we know from experience that customers are happy to wait.

Price: £6950 GBP.

Availability: This Elka Synthex is no longer available for sale.

Click on the thumbnails for higher resolution photos.

 

BUY THIS SYNTHEX

Elka Synthex Mk2

This item is in Stock

Came into stock: Arrived at RL Music on 8th January 2013

Restoration Status: This Synthex is at KSR now and currently undergoing full restoration.

ETR (estimated time from restoration): Should be ready by March 2013

Remarks: A truly stunning example of the mid version (Mk2) Elka Synthex – with the factory MIDI option delivered through the break-out-box (supplied). This Synthex could easily qualify as a collectors piece, and can be described as exemplary.

We reluctantly sold our own ‘in-house’ Elka Synthex back in April last year which we considered to be the best condition Mk3 example we had ever seen. This Synthex now in stock surpasses even our own machine and will represent a fine instrument for anyone looking for the best condition example in the world. KSR are conducting a full restoration on the operational side, as well as re-finishing the cabinet.

This Synthex operates on EU 220V.

Guide Price Post-Restoration: £7990 UK Pounds

Availability: This Synthex is now SOLD as at 3rd April 2013.

RESERVE THIS SYNTHEX

Crumar Spirit

Crumar Spirit

We present for sale, an almost ‘as-new’ example of a truly wonderful instrument – an overlooked and hidden gem of a vintage synth.

The synth was designed in collaboration with Bob Moog , Jim Scott & Tom Rhea back in 1983 and is arguably the evolution of what the Minimoog Model D might have been, and is feature packed.

VSE provides some useful background and specs on the Crumar Spirit, plus a short video by david Morley here: http://www.vintagesynth.com/misc/spirit.php

The immaculate & striking ‘blonde’ wood case is completely original so has not needed any restoration at all, but KSR have conducted a full operational service on this exemplarily condition example as a matter of course, even though it was pretty much perfect when we received it.

This is a collectors/museum condition instrument so represents a really special find and long-term investment if your thinking in these terms. The Spirit seems to have been overlooked by many as a high-end vintage analogue synth but once this oversight has been corrected then you will see this become highly sought after and prices rocket – mark our words!

This example is sold with a full 3 months warranty and runs on EU (220V) voltage.

Price = £2890 UK Pounds

Availability = SOLD

Click the thumbnails for higher resolution photos.

BUY THIS CRUMAR SPIRIT