EMS Synthi A

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

Came into stock: 

March 2022.

Service Status: 

A full service will be carried out once the unit is sold, which will add around 14 days to the post-sale completion.

Remarks: 

We’re pleased to be able to offer a really fantastic condition (single owner!) EMS Synthi A, which is priced well below exiting online prices for dealer supplied examples of these highly sought after vintage synths.

Background:

The current owner has bought this Synthi A from new, although it had not been in much use for some time and was stored away, so KSR was commissioned to prepare the Synthi for sale & Brokering through us.  The serial number is ‘4746,’ so Robin Wood at EMS is likely to have a manufacture date on this example, but it looks like an earlier production model.

Condition:

This Synthi A is in exceptional all original (unmodified) condition, and although it shows very little signs of wear and is a top condition instrument of this age (nearly 50 years old).  The Spartanite case is in excellent condition, and the nickel catches/hinges show a normal patina.  We have covered the key aspects instrument in the series of photos we have taken (see below), so we hope these candidly show the overall presentation of this instrument but if you need more then please just ask.

Operationally it’s 100% as a number of maintenance-related items have been carried out pre-sale, including a lot of deep-cleaning of pots sockets and the matrix panel, which has been flushed through.  Most of the work carried out y KSR is akin to an overhaul in effect, but we will have the Synthi A put through a final check and calibration post-sale, and attend to any normal service items needed at that point.

This EMS Synthi A can operate on either US-110V or EU-220V via a tiny switch on the front panel. We will include the proprietary EMS power cable (UK 3-pin type plug fitted) and a full comment of original Matrix Pins, although we would recommend a full new set be purchased for this instrument for best results when patching it up, which you can still source from EMS directly for around £260 GBP.  You can specify if you would like these supplied with the instrument upon purchase.

We don’t have any original paper documents with this but we can supply a copy of the EMS owner’s manual in PDF. 

Packing & Shipping: 

We can ship this EMS worldwide, although the packing, shipping & insurance costs are not included in the sale price below, so are subject to quotation.  There may be some short delays in getting the packaging materials produced for shipping as they are custom ordered for the specific dimensions of the 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: 

£12,990 GBP

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

Availability: 

This EMS Synthi A is now SOLD.  This listing was updated on 2nd September 2022 @ 14:47 GMT.

Click on the thumbnail for a higher resolution photo of the actual Synthi 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 EMS SYNTHI A

EMS Synthi AKS

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

Came into stock: March 2020.

Servicing Status: Full service by KSR has already been carried out in April 2020 and it’s also been fully health-checked again in June 2021, so this Synthi AKS is ready for sale now.

Remarks: A fabulous opportunity to own your EMS Synthi AKS, and very competitively priced!

The current owner has only owned this Synthi AKS for around 10 years, having purchased it in the UK from a non-specialist retailer, and did not have any record of any historical service work.  The Synthi AKS has had minimal use and was stored away for some years, so KSR was commissioned to carry out a full service on the EMS, to get it ready for sale through our Brokering Service.

The serial number is ‘45300KS,’ so Robin Wood at EMS is likely to have a manufacture date on this example, but it looks like a later model.

Cosmetic Appraisal:

This AKS is in good all original (unmodified) condition, and although it shows some wear to the control surface and a small mark (low-D) in the KS blue surface finish, it’s in keeping with an instrument of this age (around 45 years old).  The Spartanite case is in good condition, although has a small burn mark on the front, left of the ‘SYNTHI’ plate. The nickel catches/hinges show a normal patina, and one of the rear-hinges locks okay but doesn’t sit flat, but both lids are perfectly secure.  We have covered the key aspects instrument in the series of photos below, including an internal shot for those that like that kind of thing, so we hope these candidly show the overall presentation of this Synthi AKS.

This is a good condition example of the model/type, perfectly working, but does show some signs of use and its age, so it’s no museum/collector’s piece, but the price has been set to reflect that. It’s important to understand that with dealer supplied examples of the Synthi AKS being advertised for between £15K to £18K GBP these days, we know that the sales price for this example represents excellent value.

This EMS Synthi AKS did come from the owner with a couple of very worn Matrix pins, so on our advice, the owner purchased a brand new set from EMS, which are being supplied with the instrument. Also included are a brand new power-chord and cinch-jones interconnect cable.

The service by KSR covered all the critical items like the replacement of old power-regulation caps, deep cleaning, and calibration, but In addition to the above, the following work can also be carried out by request. This is a costed option, so is additional to the sales prices listed at the bottom of this page:

*VCO stabilisation modification implemented in line with EMS guidelines = £480 GBP

This Synthi AKS operates on 240V or US 110V (switchable) – it will be sold with a 3-month warranty. Aside from the new set of Matrix Pins included and the new power-cable,  Cinch-Jones Synthi-to-KS cable, we can also supply a copy of the user manual (PDF only).

Ordering From the EU (Post 1st Jan 2021): 

Now the UK is no longer a part of the European Union, we all have new levels of bureaucracy to deal with when you buy equipment from any business in the UK, for onward delivery to any destination in the EU.  In order for us to be able to ship to the EU now, we will require you to supply an EORI number if you are buying from us as a business, which will be provided in the Commercial Invoice that goes with the consignment.  Private individuals purchasing equipment from us will not require an EORI number but the goods will still be subject to VAT, which is charged by your own countries Customs, to clear the goods, so we now do not charge VAT on our purchasing invoice. The VAT rate applied upon import into your country will be set by your own country applicable VAT rates. 

Sales Price: £12,990 GBP.

Availability: This EMS Synthi AKS is now SOLD – this page was updated on 25th August 2021.

Click on the thumbnail for a higher resolution photo of the actual Synthi AKS for sale.

BUY THIS SYNTHI AKS

EMS VCS3 Mk2 & ...

We are Brokering these instruments for and on behalf of our UK customer

Came into stock: March 2021.

Servicing Status: Full service by KSR has already been carried out in March 2021 and both units were fully health-checked again in June 2021, so both the VCS3 Mk2 (Serial #1308) & DK1 (Serial #2113) are ready for sale now.

Remarks: An EMS VCS3 Mk2 with a very interesting provenance.

The current owner has only owned this VCS3/DK1 for over 20 years and only used it at home, but had been stored for some time until KSR was commissioned to carry out a full service on the equipment to get it ready for sale through our Brokering Service.

The VCS3 was owned by Hans Zimmer.

Cosmetic Appraisal:

This VCS3 Mk2 is in good all original (operationally unmodified) condition, and although it shows some wear to the control surface, it’s in keeping with an instrument of this age (around 45+ years old).  The wood case is in good condition and has not been ‘over-restored,’ so has a naturally aged patina to it.  

There is an additional wood strip that’s been added to the bottom control panel, which is there to hide some graffiti that has been hand-etched into the metal panel. As you can see from the pictures, it claims to have been owned by Hans Zimmer, so we contacted him to ask if he knew anything about it…he did!  Hans confirmed that that exact VCS3 was the very first synth he ever owned, although he couldn’t remember what happened to it after his time using it in the UK way back in the early days of his career, so a nice provenance. 

The lower control panel having been hand-etched like this is certainly not something anyone would do these days, but the VCS3 was probably only worth a couple of hundred £-Pounds when this was defaced, so it’s relative.  It would certainly be possible to get both the upper & lower panels restored to original if the buyer wanted, so it’s an option to consider, and the exceptionally keen sales price of this VCS3 has been agreed with our client to reflect the cosmetic blemish.

The other item of note is the right side of the Matrix Panel, where you can see that an EMS-supplied overlay has been stuck on.  We’ve seen a few of these over the years and it’s always done because the original screen-print along that side has worn away through use.

The EMS Dk1 Keyboard is also in good original condition, although we’re still waiting for KSR to supply the pictures to us for this item, so we’ll update this listing as soon as the photos come through.

The sales price for this combo VCS3 Mk2 & DK1 represents outstanding value as it’s easy to see online that people are asking prices in excess of £17K GBP and all the way up to nearly £26K GBP just for a VCS3 alone.  The DK1 is often seen advertised for up to £3K GBP alone.

This EMS VCS3 does come from the owner with a full complement of Matrix pins, although these are old originals, so we would recommend a full new set be purchased for this instrument for best results when patching it up, which we can still source from EMS directly for around £260 GBP.  You can specify if you would like these supplied with the instrument upon purchase.

Also included in the sale is the cinch-jones DK1 interconnect cable, the proprietary EMS power-cable.

Service & Options:

The service by KSR covered all the critical items like replacement of old power-regulation caps, deep cleaning, and calibration, but In addition to the above, the following work can also be carried out by request. This is a costed option, so is additional to the sales prices listed at the bottom of this page:

*VCO stabilisation modification implemented in line with EMS guidelines = £480 GBP

This VCS3 Mk2 operates on 240V. Both instruments are sold with a 3-month warranty. We can also supply a copy of the user manual (PDF only).

Note on Demos, and because…Covid:  The VCS3 Mk2 & DK1 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 VCS3 Mk2 & DK1, 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 EMS.

Packing & Shipping: We can ship this worldwide, 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.

Ordering From the EU (Post 1st Jan 2021): 

Thanks to all those who voted us out of the European Union, we/you now have new levels of bureaucracy to deal with when you buy equipment from any business in the UK, for onward delivery to any destination in the EU.  In order for us to be able to ship to the EU now, we will require you to supply an EORI number if you are buying from us as a business, which will be provided in the Commercial Invoice that goes with the consignment.  Private individuals purchasing equipment from us will not require an EORI number but the goods will still be subject to VAT, which is charged by your own countries Customs, to clear the goods, so we now do not charge VAT on our purchasing invoice. The VAT rate applied upon import into your country will be set by your own countries applicable VAT rates. 

Sales Price: £13,990 GBP – for both the VCS3 Mk2 & DK1.

Availability: This EMS VCS3 Mk2 & DK1 are now SOLD – this listing was updated on 1st July 2021.

Note on pictures, again due to Covid: Click on the thumbnail for a higher resolution photo of the actual VCS3 Mk2 & DK1 for sale.  Due to the Covid-19 restrictions, Kent has offered to photograph the instrument 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.

Click on the thumbnail for a higher resolution photo of the actual VCS3 Mk2 & DK1 for sale.

BUY THIS VCS3 Mk2 & DK1

EMS Synthi AKS

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

Came into stock: March 2021.

Servicing Status: Full service by KSR has already been carried out in March 2021 and it’s also been fully health-checked again in June 2021, so this Synthi AKS is ready for sale now.

Remarks: Another EMS Synthi AKS, and very competitively priced!

The current owner has only owned this Synthi AKS from new and used it at home for home recording until around 1984 when it was stored away until KSR was commissioned to carry out a full service on the EMS to get it ready for sale through our Brokering Service.

The serial number is ‘ 4471KS,’ so Robin Wood at EMS is likely to have a manufacture date on this example, but it looks like an earlier production model.

Cosmetic Appraisal:

This AKS is in good all original (unmodified) condition, and although it shows some wear to the control surface, but it’s in keeping with an instrument of this age (around 45+ years old).  The Spartanite case is in good condition, and the nickel catches/hinges show a normal patina.  We have covered the key aspects instrument in the series of photos that KSR did for us, as you can see below, so we hope these candidly show the overall presentation of this Synthi AKS but if you need more then please just ask.

This is a good condition example of the model/type, perfectly working, but does show some signs of use and its age, so it’s no museum/collector’s piece, but the price has been set to reflect that. It’s important to understand that with dealer-supplied examples of the Synthi AKS being advertised for between £15K to £18K GBP these days, we know that the sales price for this example represents excellent value.

This EMS Synthi AKS did come from the owner with very worn Matrix pins, so we would recommend a full new set be purchased for this instrument for best results when patching it up, which we can still source from EMS directly for around £260 GBP.  You can specify if you would like these supplied with the instrument upon purchase.

Also included in the sale is the cinch-jones KS interconnect cable, the proprietary EMS power-cable, and three Presto-Patch blocks for the Presto-Patch fitted to this particular model.

The service by KSR covered all the critical items like replacement of old power-regulation caps, deep cleaning, and calibration, but In addition to the above, the following work can also be carried out by request. This is a costed option, so is additional to the sales prices listed at the bottom of this page:

*VCO stabilisation modification implemented in line with EMS guidelines = £480 GBP

This Synthi AKS operates on 240V or US 110V (switchable) – it will be sold with a 3-month warranty. We can also supply a copy of the user manual (PDF only).

Note on Demos, and because…Covid:  The Synthi AKS 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 Synthi AKS, 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 EMS.

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.

Ordering From the EU (Post 1st Jan 2021): 

Thanks to all those who voted us out of the European Union, we/you now have new levels of bureaucracy to deal with when you buy equipment from any business in the UK, for onward delivery to any destination in the EU.  In order for us to be able to ship to the EU now, we will require you to supply an EORI number if you are buying from us as a business, which will be provided in the Commercial Invoice that goes with the consignment.  Private individuals purchasing equipment from us will not require an EORI number but the goods will still be subject to VAT, which is charged by your own countries Customs, to clear the goods, so we now do not charge VAT on our purchasing invoice. The VAT rate applied upon import into your country will be set by your own countries applicable VAT rates. 

Sales Price: £12,990 GBP.

Availability: This EMS Synthi AKS is now SOLD – this page was updated on 15th September 2021.

Note on pictures, again due to Covid: Click on the thumbnail for a higher resolution photo of the actual Synthi AKS for sale.  Due to the Covid-19 restrictions, Kent has offered to photograph the instrument 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.

Click on the thumbnail for a higher resolution photo of the actual Synthi AKS for sale.

BUY THIS SYNTHI AKS

EMS Synthi A Mk2

We are Brokering this instrument for and on behalf of our customer</strong>

Came into stock: November 2017.

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

Remarks: We’re delighted to be able to offer an EMS Synthi A Mk2 to our customers who want to experience a vintage EMS but don’t need the extra expense/facility of the KS (Keyboard/Sequencer) that the AKS model offers.

Identical to the Synthi AKS (synth) in sound & operation, the Synthi A is the ultimate portable synth, packaged in the same Spartanite case and offering the endless programming possibilities through the matrix panel interface.  EMS originally named the Synth A the “Portabella” which followed the naming conventions of its early synths like the “Putney (VCS3 Mk1)” and Cricklewood (DK1) keyboard etc.

The EMS Synthi A was first brought to the market by EMS the same year as Moog launched the Model D Minimoog to the world – an auspicious year for synth fans indeed!  This example we are offering for sale is a later revision, an Mk2, and was manufactured during the Datanomics company ownership period which would have been between 1979 to 1982. The Mk2 Synth A is usually identifiable by the serial number and the power-conditioning components used internally.  This particular Synthi A has a serial number of 4687.

Our client has had this Synth A in his family for many years and it originally belonged to his father who had made modifications to the synth.  There are no documented notes on the mods, and after Kent at KSR had investigated this, he could not see ay internal connections that changed the normal function of the synth.  These mods that you can see are drilled into the front panel, so it’s far from being a collector’s piece,  but it might be worth considering having Robin at EMS undertake his suite of factory-mods to take advantage of these already made panel insertions…that is what we would do if it were ours.  The other idea is to have the panel fully cosmetically restored (subject to quotation & T&Cs) to remove the holes and get the finish back to standard. 

The above suggestions are all things for any future owner to consider, but overall, it does not affect the operation of the Synthi, which is now 100% perfect.  The price on this has been lowered significantly below-market prices for a vintage EMS Synthi A, in order to reflect its cosmetic situation, but as a workhorse/studio instrument it will do the job nicely, and you get to save a lot of money.

Our client commissioned KSR to carry out an extensive ground-up overhaul to bring it up to a perfect operating specification, whilst ensuring its operational authenticity is preserved as much as possible. Electronic instruments of this age do need a minimum level of restoration, but we approach this kind of work sympathetically.

The restoration time & resources invested in this instrument by KSR include:

>Spartanite case deep-cleaned, re-finished & all hardware cleaned.

>Control Panels deep-cleaned.

>Every control component (potentiometers/switches/matrix panel), cleaned & lubricated

>Power-Supply re-capped & calibrated.

>Legacy Matrix Pins cleaned & tested.

>Full system-wide calibration & soak-test.

The above restorative work is the minimum we asked KSR to carry out as they would all need this level of attention due to their age, but In addition to the above, the following work can also be carried out by request. This is a costed option, so is additional to the sales price listed at the bottom of this page so please contact us for a quote:

*VCO stabilisation modification implemented in line with EMS guidelines.

*This Synthi A comes with (almost) a full complement of old matrix pins, although to be honest, these original 40-year-old pins are well past there best so we would recommend you also purchase a brand new (full) set of matrix pins, which we can source for you. although they are supplied from EMS directly, so ask us for a quote for these or contact Robin Wood at EMS directly.

This instrument operates on either EU/UK 220~240V or US110V via a front-panel switch.  The instrument is sold with a 3-month warranty from RL Music and we will also include a user manual in PDF format and a brand new proprietary EMS UK-plug IEC power cable.

Note on Demos, and because…Covid:  The Synthi A Mk2 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 Synthi 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 Synthi A, 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 the Synthi A Mk2.

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: £8,990 GBP

Availability: This Synthi A Mk2 is now SOLD – this page was updated on 13th November 2020.

Note on pictures, again due to Covid: Click on the thumbnail for higher resolution photo of the actual Synthi A Mk2 for sale.  Due to the Covid-19 restrictions, Kent has offered to photograph the Synthi 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 EMS Synthi A Mk2 for sale are below.

BUY THIS SYNTHI A MK2

EMS DK1

We are Brokering this very good condition DK1 for a UK customer.

Came into stock: September 2019.

Restoration Status: KSR has already fully serviced this DK1 so it’s ready for sale now.

Remarks: The (David Cockerell designed) EMS DK1, aka ‘The Cricklewood,’ analogue keyboard controller was made to pair with the EMS Synthi & VCS3.  The manufacturing date for this controller will be from between 1969 to 1972, so at least 47 years old.  The serial for is #2118, so Robin at EMS might have the manufacturing date for this in his archive.

This DK1 has just been subjected to complete service by Kent at KSR, so is certified 100% fully operational.  No deeper restoration has been applied to it other than some cleaning, so the wood and tolex has not been stripped or replaced, although it was not needed anyway as the overall presentation is very good.

You will notice that there has been a small slide-switch added to the control panel (between the input change toggle switches).  Our client, the owner, did not have this implemented, and has no knowledge of it, but Kent at KSR has told us that is serves no purpose and had no circuitry to it, so it’s a legacy mod that had some function for the keyboard in the last 40+ years, but no longer does anything.   The switch is non-functional, so does not interfere with the normal operation of the DK1.

Cosmetically speaking, the modification mention above could be removed and the whole panel restored to look standard, and if this was our own DK1 we might have invested into having that work carried out.  However, what we decided to do when discussing the with our client was to leave it as-is and price the DK1 accordingly, to reflect the effect the switch has to the presentation.  There is also a chrome cliff-knob cap missing.

The DK1 has two independent channels of CV, these can set to different modes, and the keyboard has its own built-in VCO for modulation options, plus as “Dynamic Channel’ output and a VCA.  You would connect the DK1 to the Synthi or VCS3 via the Cinch-Jones keyboard interconnect cable, and optionally, a second 1/4 inch jack cable for the ‘input ch2’ into the synthesizer.

The ‘Dynamic Channel’, can be used to operate the  DK1s 37 note velocity-sensitive keyboard. This means the velocity action sends a separate control voltage.  This would commonly be used for loudness control, providing you set the matrix-patch on your Synthi or VCS3 to operate that way. The ‘Dynamic Channel’ can actually be set to control almost any facility on the Synthi or VCS3…which is what these amazing synths are all about really.

If you need it, We are able to supply the Cinch-Jones keyboard interconnect cable to run the DK1 into either a Synthi or VCS3, price upon request.

Sold with a full 3-month warranty.

Price: £1290 GBP.

Availability: This DK1 is now SOLD as at 31st October 2019.

Click on the thumbnails for a high-resolution photo of the actual DK1 for sale.

BUY THIS DK1

Spartanite case

Came into stock: May 2019.

Remarks:  A truly rare find indeed, and if you know what this is then you already know that it’s a very useful item to have if you’re a Synthi A/AKS owner.

We purchased this from a UK buyer who had actually owned from brand new, way back in the ’70s when it was bought as an actual document holder but was never actually used.  The owner contacted us as they realised it was also used to ‘house a synthesizer,’ which of course they were correct, so we snapped it up.

This Spartanite case is completely original, and you will know, were purchased by EMS to produce the Synthi A and AKS models, but the case has been out of production for over 40 years. We understand that Robin at EMS no longer has any cases left, hence the production on the Synth A has been in jeopardy, with no immediate solution to hand.

If you own a Synthi A or AKS and your case is damaged then here is the solution for you, and considering the value of these vintage models, it’s a complete no-brainer to buy this.  It would need some slight modification to accept the Synthi, but that’s really only drilling some holes in the case where the feet go, and/or the KS mounting thumb-screws to fit etc.

Price: £850 GBP.

Availability:  This Spartanite case is now SOLD, as at 1st November 2019.

Click on the thumbnails for higher resolution photos of actual case for sale.

 

BUY THIS CASE

EMS Synthi A Mk1

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

Came into stock: Arrived at RL Music in July 2019

Servicing Status: A full service by KSR has already been carried out (July 2019) on this Synthi A, so it’s ready for sale & shipping now.

Remarks: A fabulous opportunity to own a vintage EMS Synthi A, and this example is in super all original condition throughout.

This Synthi (serial #4024) was purchased brand new by our client Father-in-Law in 1972 so they are the original and only owner of this instrument. There have not been any modifications made to this Synthi so it’s factory spec. Being an early model, the sound of this Synths sublime, and a real connoisseurs/collectors machine that we would grade as 9.5 out of 10.

Since 1973, this Synthi A was used in numerous avant-garde music projects by the owner, who was an experimentalist musician, that published an album in the early 70s using this Synthi A (amongst other items). Since the death of the owner, this Synthi A has been kept in storage, unused, since the early 1980s. This is a bit of a ‘barn find’ for the family, so they had commissioned Kent at KSR to undertake a full restoration of this Synthi, which was completed 7 days ago, so the EMS is now in perfect operations condition.

Cosmetically, this is in excellent all original condition throughout, with hardly any noticeable wear to the control panel. The Spartanite case is undamaged and looks almost like new, and the nickel catches/hinges are in very good condition. This Synthi A also comes with a full complement of Matrix pins and the proprietary power-cable.

These iconic and truly amazing pure analogue music instruments are in great demand by professional users, and prices are being driven up fast on the second-hand market around the world, so now might be a good time to invest in one before they become ‘Vintage Buchla or RA Moog Modular’ prices. The price of this Synthi A has been agreed with the owner to stimulate a faster sale, so it’s available at a fantastic price and by far the best value in the world today, for a vintage EMS synthesizer.

We can’t think of a more iconic, truly portable synthesizer ever being made, and even today the design of the Synthi is considered a triumph of feature and form…incredible.

This Synthi only operates on EU 220V~240V with UK 3-pin plug fitted, and as mentioned above, comes with a full set of matrix pins, and the original proprietary power-cable. We will all supply a copy EMS Synthi User Manual (PDF) with the sale.

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

Demos are available by appointment only.

Sales Price: £9,800. GBP

Availability: This EMS Synthi is now SOLD, as at 19th July 2019.

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

BUY THIS SYNTHI A

EMS Synthi Mk2

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

Came into stock: Available from RL Music as at 9th January 2019.

Servicing Status: A full health-check by KSR will be carried out post-sale but this Synthi was fully serviced by EMS in October 2016.

Remarks: A fabulous opportunity to own a vintage EMS Synthi, and this example is in super all original condition throughout.

This Synthi (serial #4656KS so a Mk2 version) was purchased brand new by our client in 1973 so they are the original and only owner of this instrument. When purchased, this was a (complete) Synthi AKS model and therefore had the Keyboard Sequencer (KS) controller, but our client sold that some decades ago so it no longer comes included with this, hence it’s been advertised as only a Synthi, or Synthi A. There have not been any modifications made to this Synthi so it’s factory spec. One advantage to it being an ex-AKS model is that the PSU is rated to easily run external devices like the KS or DK series controllers.

Since 1973, this Synthi has been in regular home use only, and the owner decided to have a detailed service carried out by Robin at EMS in late 2016. We have the original EMS service receipt which we have scanned and made available to view below so you can see what was carried out.

The cosmetic condition is very good indeed, with only some wear to the screen-print along the matrix, which is not unusual. Both Spartanite cases are in excellent condition. The nickel latches & hinges show signs of oxidisation, which again is normal to see on a 45+ year-old synth, although they easily could be improved with some light restorative work if needed. In all, the instrument shows normal signs of ageing and has not any overt cosmetic restoration carried out, which we know for many people is important in terms of retaining authenticity.

Included in the sale (pictured), is a nearly-new Kenton Pro-Solo Mk2 with PSU and required cables to carry CV/Gate/Filter (cinch-jones connector) to operate this Synthi via MIDI. These are all included in the price, and worth around £200 GBP if purchased new/separately.

These iconic and truly amazing pure analogue music instruments are in great demand by professional users, and prices are being driven up fast on the second-hand market around the world, so now might be a good time to invest in one before they become ‘Vintage Buchla or RA Moog Modular’ prices.

We can’t think of a more iconic, truly portable synthesizer ever being made, and even today the design of the Synthi is considered a triumph of feature and form…incredible.

This EMS Synthi comes with way more than a full set of matrix pins, 35 in total, and 16 of them are brand new (all red), so the pin situation is covered.

KSR will give this Synthi a full health-check post-sale, but we have tested it extensively and can confirm it’s working perfectly, as it should really as Robin did all the refurbishment work only a couple of years ago.

This Synthi is set to operate on EU 220V~240V (front-panel setting). We were also supplied with the original EMS ‘Education manual’ for this model and the proprietary EMS power-cable (with UK 3-pin plug fitted).

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

Demos are available by appointment only.

As with all Brokered Sales, the synth will be fully health-checked 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 work 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.

Sales Price: £9027 GBP.

Availability: This EMS Synthi is available now SOLD, as at 11th February 2020.

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

BUY THIS SYNTHI

EMS Synthi AKS

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

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

Servicing Status: A full health-check by KSR has already been carried out (June 2018), so this Synthi AKS is ready for sale now. The AKS was also fully serviced in July 2017 by SSC in London.

Remarks: A fabulous opportunity to own your EMS Synthi AKS, and this example is in stunning condition throughout.

This Synthi AKS was owned by our clients family since 1994 and it had been in constant use and maintained regularly during their ownership at their home studio, up until quite recently. We contacted Robin at EMS to ask if he had any historical data on this unit (serial number: 45404KS), and he confirmed that it was sold by EMS on 11th October 1976 to the Greenwich Young People’s Theatre in London. We can ascertain from this that the Synthi AKS was manufactured during 1976.

These iconic and truly amazing pure analogue music instruments are in great demand by professional users, and prices are being driven up fast on the second-hand market around the world, so now might be a good time to invest in one before they become ‘Vintage Buchla or RA Moog Modular’ prices.

We can’t think of a more iconic, truly portable synthesizer ever being made, and even today the design of the Synthi is considered a triumph of feature and form…incredible.

This EMS Synthi AKS did come from the owner with a partial set of worn Matrix pins, which we have used to picture it with, but the pins are in need of replacing to ensure a reliable contact within the matrix panel, so we always recommend you also purchase a brand new (full) set of matrix pins, which we get supplied from EMS directly. Please ask us for a quote if you would like this option.

KSR has just given this Synthi AKS a full health-check, clean and calibration so it’s 100% fully operational, and as you can see from the pictures, in superb all original condition (completely un modified). Cosmetically, this 40+ year-old vintage analogue instrument is in near pristine condition and we would rate this as a Collector Grade – 9 out of 10.

This Synthi AKS operates on EU 220V. We were also supplied with the original EMS user manual for this model. The Cinch-Jones Synthi-to-KS cable and power-cable is also included. As the instrument is being Brokered through RL Music, it will be sold with a full 3-month warranty and we can ship worldwide.

Demos are available by appointment only.

Sales Price: £11,500 GBP.

Availability: This Synthi AKS is now SOLD, as at 1st October 2018.

Click on the thumbnail for higher resolution photo of the actual Synthi AKS for sale.

BUY THIS SYNTHI AKS

EMS PVC

We are Brokering this vintage EMS module for and on behalf of our EU customer

Came into stock: Arrived at RL Music on 15th February 2018

Restoration Status: A full service by KSR will be carried out post-sale.

Remarks: An extremely rare vintage EMS ancillary studio module – the Pitch-to-Voltage Converter, mounted in its original Afrormosia wood case.

What is it, and what does it do?
The principal function of the PVC is to convert an audio input into a DC voltage whose value is proportional to the pitch of that input signal. There is a very informative page on the ‘Old Tech – Vintage Synthesizer’ website that covers the PVC in some depth, so please click the link below to learn more:

http://www.oldtech.com/synth/EMSPtoV1.html

As you can see from the pictures below, this PVC is in very good 100% original condition. It’s is sold with a 3-month warranty and runs on EU 220V using the proprietary EMS power-socket (power cable supplied)

As with all Brokered Sales, the PVC 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.

Price: £1300 GBP.

Availability: This EMS Pitch-to-Voltage Converter is now SOLD, as at 13th August 2019.

Picture of actual PVC for sale below, so please click on the thumbnails for higher resolution photos.

BUY THIS EMS PVC

EMS VCS3 Mk2

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

Came into stock:  Available from RL Music as at 19th October 2018.

Restoration Status: A full health-check by KSR has been carried out, so the VCS3 Mk2 is ready for sale now!

Remarks: We are delighted to offer you another rare opportunity to own a (manufactured in late 1972) EMS VCS3 Mk2. This VCS3 has a fascinating provenance as it was once owned by the composer, Edward Williams, a former owner of EMS in the 1980s. It was serviced by Robin at EMS in 2016 and has been modified (also by EMS) with a host of useful upgrades.

Our client, the owner, has prepared an excellent presentation document that describes the provenance he has gathered for this instrument (link to PDF below) that outlines the provenance, so we highly recommend you read this in conjunction with the listing information here:

http://www.rlmusic.co.uk/rlm3/VCS3-Sales-Particulars.pdf

Cosmetic Condition:

The cosmetic condition is excellent, and the photos we have taken clearly show very little wear to the main control surfaces (front & rear). The wood cabinet is completely original and has not had any restorative work carried out, so shows a natural patina, and as you can see from the pictures below, is in fantastic condition. All the controls and pins are present.

Operational Condition:

The VCS3 works flawlessly. KSR has just carried out a detailed health check and could find “nothing to report” on this instrument…not bad at all for 46 year old synthesizer! It has very clearly been very well looked after.

Detail on the modifications:

The modifications carried out on this VCS3 where done by EMS at some time in the past, so were implemented professionally, details of which are:

* The Matrix has been modded to behave like an Mk1 VCS3
* Hi/Lo switches on oscillators 2 & 3
* Envelope shaper source select switch (selects where the envelope gets its trigger from – either 8-way keyboard connector or external gate input)
* External gate input jack on rear of the unit
* Input channel SI/Mult switches (disconnects the link from 8 way keyboard socket – useful if the keyboard and external audio inputs are connected as they can interact and crackle)
* Voltage controlled oscillator shape (3 x 3.5mm jack sockets with special patch-pin leads – modulate OSC shape, especially interesting for stereo effects)
* Dual patchable inverter (uses 3.5mm – patch-pin lead to invert signals)
* Two extra input channels (fitted on back panel for CV or line level audio, joystick position to control levels!) with switch EXT CV / STICK.
* “Multiple” – four 3.5mm jack sockets wired to each other to act as a CV splitter when patching the mods together – control several things at once, for example.

This beautiful VCS3 Mk2 is, without doubt, a ‘collector grade’ instrument, and if we didn’t already own a Putney & Synthi AKS then we’d buy this from the owner for the ‘RL Music Collection.’ Alas, it’s up for general sale and we highly recommend this example to you.

This VCS3 Mk2 operates on EU 220V and is supplied with the proprietary EMS power-cable, a full complement of original Matrix Pins and an assortment of Mini-jacks (as pictured). In addition, there is a copy of the bill of sale from EMS (in the PDF), from 2016, that cover the items detailed in the service, and instructions from EMS on the modifications implemented.

Price: EMS VCS3 Mk2 = £11,990 GBP.

Availability: This EMS VCS3 MK2 is now SOLD, as at 28th October 2018.

Click on the thumbnail for higher resolution photo of the actual VCS3 MK2 for sale.

BUY THIS VCS3 MK2

EMS Synth A Mk2

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

Came into stock: October 2017.

Restoration Status: A full service by KSR has already been carried out (completed on 1st November 2017), so this instrument is ready for sale now.

We’re delighted to be able to offer an EMS Synthi A Mk2 to our customers who want to experience a vintage EMS but don’t need the extra expense/facility of the KS (Keyboard/Sequencer) that the AKS model offers.

Identical to the Synthi AKS (synth) in sound & operation, the Synthi A is the ultimate portable synth, packaged in the same Spartanite case and offering the endless programming possibilities through the matrix panel interface. EMS originally named the Synth A the “Portabella” which followed the naming conventions of its early synths like the “Putney (VCS3 Mk1)” and Cricklewood (DK1) keyboard etc.

The EMS Synthi A was first brought to the market by EMS the same year as Moog launched the Model D Minimoog to the world – an auspicious year for synth fans indeed! This example we are offering for sale is a later revision, an Mk2, and was manufactured during the Datamonics company ownership period which would have been between 1979 to 1982. The Mk2 Synth A is usually identifiable but the power-conditioning components used internally, but the metal silver anodised panel is another way to quickly identify them, as the earlier (Mk1) versions were usually painted (white), although there may have been some cross-over.

Provenance
Our client literally rescued this Synthi A from a London school back in the late 1990s who were throwing it out, and the synth bears the marks of this being a genuine educational tool for children. You will see from the anodised metal panel that it was been hand-inscribed with “ILEA” and other markings. Most people in the UK would recognise that as meaning “Inner London Education Authority” – so this synth has faithfully served fresh young minds in its time, and perhaps even enthused a few (like we were back in the day) to take their love of synthesis further into adulthood….bravo!

Our client has used this instrument regularly since the 90s and even gigged with it for a few years in London, so this synth is not a ‘glass-case’ collector’s item by far, but to many people that brings its own appeal and means it has a genuine evidenced history & story to tell.
_______

At some time in the life of the instrument, an IEC power socket was fitted to the synth. The implementation is good. We assume that the use of the usual proprietary EMS power-cable was a problem for the school as these easily get lost, so someone fitted the IEC to it.

As this instrument is nearly 40 years old, and quite commonly, it did not come to us any significant service history from our client. We commissioned KSR to carry out an extensive ground-up overhaul to bring it up to a perfect operating specification, whilst ensuring its authenticity is preserved as much as possible. Electronic instruments of this age need a deep level of restoration, but we approach this kind of work sympathetically.

The restoration time & resources invested into this instrument by KSR include:

>Strip-down of panels & Spartanite case.
>Spartanite case deep-cleaned, re-finished & all hardware cleaned.
>Control Panels deep-cleaned.
>Every control component (potentiometers/switches/matrix panel), cleaned & lubricated
>Power-Supply re-capped & calibrated.
>Full system-wide calibration & soak-test.

The above restorative work is the minimum we asked KSR to carry out as they would all need this level of attention due to their age, but In addition to the above, the following work can also be carried out by request. This is a costed option, so is not included in the sales price listed at the bottom of this page:

*VCO stabilisation modification implemented in line with EMS guidelines = £400 GBP

*This Synthi A comes with a full complement of matrix pins, although to be honest, these original 38-year-old pins are well past there best so we would recommend you also purchase a brand new (full) set of matrix pins (supplied from EMS) for = £250 GBP

Our client did not ask us to get get the panels re-anodised/screen-printed as they always felt it’s history was an intrinsic part of the life of the synth, so it comes as it was used and intended for – an educational instrument in the 1970s with a genuine provenance. However, if you prefer to purchase this Synth A and then want to have the panels refinished (re-anodised/screen-printed) to look like new, then this is possible of course, so please contact us for a quote to have this carried out.

This instrument operates on EU 220V. The instrument is sold with a 3-month warranty from RL Music and we will also include a user manual in PDF format and a UK-plug IEC power cable.

Price: £7200 GBP.

Availability: This Synthi A Mk2 is now SOLD on reserve as at 28th March 2018.

Pictures of the actual EMS Synthi A Mk2 for sale are below.

BUY THIS SYNTHI A MK2

EMS Synthi 2013

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

Came into stock: Arrived at RL Music on 21st February 2018

Restoration Status: This nearly new EMS Synthi A is in perfect working condition and KSR have already given it a ‘health-check’ in the last couple of days, so this instrument is ready for sale now.

We’re delighted to offer a rare chance to buy a recently manufactured EMS Synthi A that Robin Wood at EMS only assembled in October 2013 (we have a copy of the original receipt). This Synthi A has also been fully modified by EMS with a suite of upgrades (done at the time of manufacture). As many of you know, the waiting list to buy one of these exquisite machines from Robin has been running at around 12 years, but we spoke to him recently and he confirmed that production is now finishing due to the Spartanite cases no longer being available.

This late 2013 model (serial number 45643) sounds identical & works the same way a vintage Synthi does, plus it has all the advantages of being a nearly new machine! It’s immaculate as you would expect and works flawlessly. This instrument has only had 2 owners since 2013, this first only having it for a couple of months (unused) before emigrating and selling it to our client. Our client found it did not suit their own style of music, so it’s barely had any use at all so it needs to find a new home.

A note of the EMS implemented Mods:
Oscillator Synth on Osc2
Voltage Controlled Shape Osc1 & Osc2
Filter mode switchable 18/24 db/oct
Filter ‘unslew’ switchable on filters CV
Buffered external gate input

Included in the sale (pictured below):
Original EMS Synthi User Manual
Proprietary EMS power-cable
Full set of Matrix Pins
2 x Matrix pin-to-3.5mm cables
Cinch-Jones-to-3.5mm loom

This instrument operates on EU 220V. The instrument is sold with a 3-month warranty from RL Music.

Price: £7990 GBP.

Availability: This Synthi A is now SOLD on reserve as at 28th March 2018.

Pictures of the actual EMS Synthi A Mk2 for sale are below.

BUY THIS SYNTHI A

EMS RVG

We are Brokering this vintage EMS module for and on behalf of our EU customer

Came into stock: Arrived at RL Music on 15th February 2018

Restoration Status: A full service by KSR will be carried out post-sale.

Remarks: An extremely rare vintage EMS ancillary studio module – the Random-Voltage-Generator, mounted in its original Afrormosia Wood case.

What is it, and what does it do?
The RVG produces a staircase type of output, the ‘steps’ of which occur randomly, but whose voltage range and time variance are controllable. The proprietary ‘facilities cord’ (pictured below) provides links all the outputs to a Synthi ‘A’ or VCS3, delivering VI to Input 1, V2 to Input 2, and Trigger to Attack.There is a very informative page on the ‘Old Tech – Vintage Synthesizer’ website that covers the RVG in some depth, so please click the link below to learn more:

http://www.oldtech.com/synth/EMSRandom1.html

As you can see from the pictures below, this RVG is in really nice 100% original condition with only some small signs of wear, as you would expect from a 45-year-old device. It’s is sold with a 3-month warranty and runs on EU 220V using the proprietary EMS power-socket (power cable supplied), and also included is the aforementioned proprietary ‘facilities cord.’

As with all Brokered Sales, the RVG 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.

Price: £1300 GBP.

Availability: This EMS Random-Voltage-Generator is now SOLD as at 22nd February 2018.

Picture of actual RVG for sale below, so please click on the thumbnails for higher resolution photos.

BUY THIS EMS RVG

EMS Synthi AKS

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

Came into stock:  23rd January 2017.

Servicing Status: Full restoration by KSR has already been carried out in February 2017, so this Synthi AKS is ready for sale now.

Remarks: A fabulous opportunity to own your EMS Synthi AKS, and very early model is excellent condition.

We checked the serial number to get the the manufacturing date with EMS, and Robin Wood confirmed the Synthi AKS was made in December 1972.

At some time the past, the Keyboard-Sequencer unit was modified with the vents you can see in the pictures. We did ask EMS about this and Robin said this was not a factory mod, but he acknowledged that the voltage regulators that sit under these vents do get quite warm in operation. The owner honestly can’t remember having this modification done, but it looks okay actually, and obviously does not effect the operation in any way.

These iconic and truly amazing pure analogue music instruments are in great demand by professional users, and prices are being driven up fast on the second-hand market around the world, so now might be a good time to invest in one before they become ‘Vintage Buchla or RA Moog Modular’ prices.

This EMS Synthi AKS did come from the owner with a partial set of worn Matrix pins, which we have used to picture it with, but the pins are in need to replacing to ensure a reliable contact within the matrix panel, so we have purchased a brand new set from EMS which will be supplied with the instrument, and are included in the sales price below.

As this Synthi AKS is 45 years old, and did not have any significant service history, we asked KSR to carry out an extensive ground-up restoration to bring it back to its former glory, whilst ensuring its authenticity is preserved as much as possible. Electronic instruments of this age need a deep level of restoration, but we approach this kind of work sympathetically.

The restoration time & resources invested into this instrument by KSR include:

>Strip-down of panels & Spartanite case.
>Spartanite case deep-cleaned & all hardware cleaned.
>Control Panels deep-cleaned (vary carefully).
>Every control component (potentiometers/switches/matrix panel), cleaned & lubricated
>All three Vernier dials replaced (EMS supplied parts) but original potentiometers retained.
>Power-Supply re-capped & calibrated.
>Brand new Matrix Pin set (from EMS).
>Full system-wide calibration, test & soak-test.

Inevitably, there are some parts that will needed replacement (mostly ageing capacitors). We always work alongside EMS technical guidelines to ensure we can keep the authenticity of these 45+ year old synths intact, so no components that would effect the sound will be changed unless we absolutely have too, and even then, we will only source NOS parts from the same production era.

The above restoration work is the minimum we asked KSR to carry out on the Synthi AKS, but In addition to the above, the following work can also be carried out by request. This is a costed option, so is additional to the sales prices listed at the bottom of this page:

*VCO stabilisation modification implemented in line with EMS guidelines = £400 GBP

This Synthi AKS operates on EU 220V or US 110V (switchable) – it will be sold with a 3 month warranty. Aside the new set of Matrix Pins included, the original Cinch-Jones Synthi-to-KS cable is also included with the instrument.

Sales Price: £12,500 GBP.

Availability: This Synthi AKS is now SOLD as at 21st March 2017.

Click on the thumbnail for higher resolution photo of the actual Synthi AKS for sale.

BUY THIS SYNTHI AKS