We are Brokering this as-new condition vintage Roland flag-ship synthesizer for and on behalf of our UK customer

Came into stock: 22nd March 2016.

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

Remarks: We’re delighted to be able to offer what we consider to be one of the finest analogue polysynths ever produced – the Roland Jupiter 8. We supplied this actual JP8 to its current owner back in 2006, so we know the synth well, and have maintained it for them over the last decade.

As many of you will know, we often need to subject these models to extensive operational and cosmetic restoration (costing over £2800 GBP) to bring them up to the highest possible standard, however, this actual JP8 had already gone through this process in 2008.

We call this ‘Total Restoration’ and the work produces an almost factory new-looking machine as all the metal the panels have been stripped and re-sprayed & screen-printed, and the aluminum end-cheeks re-anodised. All the electronics have been completely overhauled, key-bed refurbished and even a brand new new perspex display etc. This is the highest level restoration we can offer for these wonderful vintage synthesizers. RL Music has developed this highly specialised service for the Jupiter 8 as professionally prepared instruments of this standard are in such high demand from customers with high expectations of quality. You will not find any other business around the world offering anything close this level of restoration.

This Jupiter 8 has resided since 2006 (and its subsequent Total Restoration in 2008) in the owners UK home studio, and has been kept covered when not used, so has been lovingly cared for. This is a very reluctant sale by the owner but they are investing into larger scale music projects, otherwise it would have never come up for sale.

This Jupiter 8 is a 12 bit version (serial number is: 121xxx) and has been retro-fitted with a Encore MIDI kit. The tuning on this earlier 12 bit version is rock-solid, and the owner has confirmed that the synth is more than stable enough for live production work.

The Jupiter 8 is a professional grade vintage instrument that’s only ever going to become more sought after and rare, so here is your opportunity to buy and absolutely stunning, top level restored example that’s got to be a keeper!

Runs on EU 220V that has an IEC socket fitted, so has a removable power-cable. Also supplied is an original owners manual and period Roland Sales Brochure for the Jupiter 8. In addition, there is a very smart aluminum flight-case included in the sale, although we will not ship the synth in this, so for any buyer able to collect it, then it will be included free of charge.

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: £7490 GBP.

Availability: This Roland Jupiter 8 is now SOLD as at 25th April 2016.

Click on the thumbnails for higher resolution photos of the actual Jupiter 8 for sale (customer supplied).

Came into stock: Arrived at RL Music in October 2015.

Servicing status: Servicing was carried out by KSR late October 2015.

Estimated time from servicing: Available for sale now.

Remarks: We have just managed to pick up this really nice original condition Korg Sigma which is now ready for sale.

The Sigma is an unusual instrument that approaches the whole ‘being a synth’ from quite a different perspective, and these quirky instruments are what makes vintage synths so interesting. It’s bi-timbric for starters, meaning it can play its presents and the separate synth section simultaneously. It also has aftertouch and joystick controls for some really useful expressive input

The VCO/VCF combination are very powerful and pure in tone, so the Sigma has a nice raspy edge to it reminiscent of the MS20 in some ways. You can certainly drive some nasty Bass & synthy effects (ring-mod etc) out of it, along with more traditional synth-lead sounds. Hard to put a finger on the sound character to be honest but it’s different, and in todays music that’s just what musicians are looking for.

Why Korg produced something so unusual is a bit of a mystery, but the world is a better place for it.

Runs on EU 220V. The Sigma will be sold with a 3 month warranty & supplied with a user-manual (on PDF).

Guide Price Post-Servicing: £650 GBP

Availability: This Korg Sigma is now SOLD as at 25th August 2016.

Pictures of actual Korg Sigma for sale below, so please click on the thumbnails for higher resolution photos.

Came into stock: Oct 2015

Servicing Status: Fully pro-restored and ready for sale.

Remarks: We are offering this highly restored & exquisite condition Roland Jupiter 8 for sale – this comes from the private ‘RL Music Collection.’

We often need to subject these models to extensive operational and cosmetic restoration to bring them up to the highest possible standard, however, this actual JP8 had already gone through this process in late 2015. We purchased & restored this JP8 for our own private collection, but have some new projects to invest into (big vintage Modulars), so are look to raise some funds through the sale of this immaculate example.

We call this ‘Total Restoration’ and the work produces an almost factory new-looking machine as all the metal the panels have been stripped and re-sprayed & screen-printed, and the aluminum end-cheeks re-anodised. All the electronics have been completely overhauled, key-bed refurbished and even a brand new new perspex display etc. This is the highest level restoration we can offer for these wonderful vintage synthesizers. RL Music has developed this highly specialised service for the Jupiter 8 as professionally prepared instruments of this standard are in such high demand from customers with high expectations of quality. You will not find any other business around the world offering anything close this level of operational & cosmetic restoration.

The serial number of this JP8 is 222xxx, which means it’s a 14 bit version. The synth has already been retro-fitted with a new Kenton MIDI kit.

This is a professional/collector grade vintage instrument that’s only ever going to become more sought after and rare, so here is your opportunity to buy and absolutely beautiful all original example that’s got to be a keeper!

Runs on EU 220V, and is supplied with a owners manual (PDF) and factory patches loaded.

Price: £8500 GBP.

Availability: This 14 bit Roland Jupiter 8 is now SOLD as at 23rd March 2016.

Click on the thumbnails for photos of our previous ‘Total Restoration’ Jupiter 8 we sold, so you can see the amazing results & stunning quality of work achieved. We’ll get some high-res pictures of the actual example available shortly.

We are Brokering this Yamaha CS80 for and on behalf of our UK client.

This CS80 is currently located at our restoration partners – KSR in Surrey, UK.

The CS80 is in good all original condition, so had not had any modifications fitted (no MIDI).  Our UK client has owned the CS80 since 1986 and had it well maintained by KSR.  Cosmetically it is in overall good condition but does show signs of wear & tear to the control surfaces, but a full cosmetic restoration is available if a pristine finish is required (see upgrade options below).  To keep the CS80 competitively priced, we are selling this as-is in terms of cosmetic presentation, although KSR will carry out a full service to the synth to ensure it’s sold 100% perfectly working & guaranteed.

The CS80 has already been fully assessed by KSR, and checks out as a very good working example, so is now only due a full service, which will be carried out post-sale – this is included in the sales price.

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.

All the RL Music supplied CS80s are serviced/restored by the world renown CS80 expert Kent Spong of KSR (Kent Spong Restorations) in London. Sound on Sound magazine (SOS) did an interview article on Kent, which you can find here:

http://www.soundonsound.com/sos/jun13/articles/kent-spong.htm

Warranty Provided:

The CS80 would be sold with a 3 month warranty as standard which covers all parts and labour and telephone/Skype technical support. KSR also provide full after-sales technical support for the CS80 by phone, email and Skype post-warranty. KSR are world renown CS80 experts and currently support hundreds of these models around the world for professional musicians/studios and enthusiasts etc.

Upgrade Option 1:
If Midi is required on the CS80 then we are able to supply and install the Kenton Midi retrofit Kits for an additional £850 GBP. Payment for the Midi Kits must be made in advance along with the deposit mentioned below.

Upgrade Option 2:
Total-Restoration Upgrade
All aspects of the CS80 cosmetic and operational integrity are addressed including re-tolexing all the exterior, re-painting and screen printing all control surfaces and considerable electronic overhaul and upgrade. This work can take up to 12 weeks to complete from receipt of deposit.  For more information on what is included in this ultimate upgrade option then please call or email us for details. The Total-Restoration Upgrade Option costs £3500 GBP. (does not include upgrade options 1, 3 & 4)

Upgrade Option 3:
Wood Surround (in Walnut) beautifully hand crafted by Lamond Design for an additional £750 GBP.

Upgrade Option 4:
KSR have designed the special modification for the CS80 (The Cascade Unison Mod ) so that if you press a single note then you get all 16 VCOs but if you press 2 notes together then it’s 8 voices per note..then 4 notes its 4 VCO’s per note etc etc. Thus meaning that it’s a kind of polyphonic unison, and offers new creative control of the powerful sound the CS80 delivers. Nearly all CS80’s we have sold in the last few years have had these fitted and it definitely adds great sonic value with no impact on the systems reliability or longevity. The Cascade Unison Mod costs £850 GBP.

Items of Note on this CS80 for sale:
Most CS80’s have lost their ‘Pedals, Music Stand and Legs’ over the years, so in most cases we are unable to supply these orignal accessories to the new owner. However, this CS80 we are Brokering does come with the original, chrome stand & carry-bag, wheels (not recommended for use) and Its original lid.

This CS80 operates on EU220V.

Price: £10990 GBP

Availability: This CS80 is now SOLD as at 28th January 2016.

Pictures of the actual CS80 for sale (customer supplied) are below. We will get some more pictures done ourselves as soon as we collect the CS80 from KSR – possibly w/c 25th Jan 2016.

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

Came into stock: 16th January 2016

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

Remarks: The Prophet T8 represents the pinnacle of the Sequential product line and with MIDI implementation and built in facilities like the wooden weighted keyboard and polyphonic after-touch. This Curtis chipset based system is is a joy to use and a high-grade professional instrument.

Our restorers, KSR, are experts at preparing these models and the superb example that we are Brokering here was actually fully pro-restored by RL Music & sold to its owner some 6 years ago, so its good to see it back again. This example is a really outstanding cosmetic and operational condition synth having only had home use by our customer, although the T8 will go though a full and extensive servicing again by KSR to ensure it’s ready for the new owner.

The serial number of this T8 is 00683, and is running under operating system ROMs version 3.4

As with all Brokered Sales, the synth will be fully restored 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.

This T8 is sold with a 3 month warranty, comes with the original owners manual, IEC power-cable (UK-plug) and runs on either 110V or 220V.

Guide Price Post-Restoration: £4290 GBP.

Availability: This T8 is now SOLD as at 18th January 2016.

Pictures of the actual Prophet T8 for sale are below, so please click on the thumbnails for higher resolution shots.

We are Brokering this Matrix 12 for and on their behalf of a UK client

Came into stock: Arrived at RL Music in October 2015.

Restoration Status: KSR has already fully undertaken a full service of the synth during November.

ETR (estimated time from restoration): Available for sale now!

Remarks: These wonderful vintage synths are so hard to find these days in really fine condition, so when our client contacted us about selling theirs, we couldn’t resist the opportunity to be able to offer this.

The Oberheim Matrix 12 is a fully midi configured 12 voice Polysynth with keyboard velocity – an excellent addition to any analogue set-up and has to be heard to be believed. The M12 offers a deep programmable architecture for those of you into tweaking but can also be a very user friendly hands-on preset machine with quick access for live use. This means they sit between that digital and analogue medium perfectly and are arguably the best of the hybrid technology of the early to mid 1980’s.

Once you’re familiar with the comprehensive programming interface of the Matrix 12 you have one of the most powerful analogue systems ever made. The M12 was the last of the old Oberheim analogue synth technology, was beautifully designed and a powerhouse of thick analogue goodness that was tragically lost from just about every synth made after, when we all decided that the DX7 was the future!

This Matrix 12 operates on EU 220V & US 110V.

Guide Price Post-Restoration: £4500 UK Pounds

Availability: This Matrix 12 is now SOLD as at 2nd December 2015.

KSR very kindly sent us through some pictures of the actual Matrix 12 for sale after the servicing was completed (see below), but these are a little dark to see a lot of detail, so we will get some more high-res pictures done ourselves as soon as we collect the Matrix 12 from KSR – hopeful w/c 30th November.

We are Brokering this very rare Prophet 5 Rev 2, for and on behalf of our UK client.

This Prophet 5 Rev 2 has been fitted with Kenton Midi, and it has been previously fully pro-restored by James Walker of Synth Repair Services (within the last 3 years).

As always, opinions circulate about the good, bad and differences between the Rev 2 and Rev 3 Prophets but the fact remains that the SSM based Rev 2 simply sounds (a lot) better. Its a significantly more rounded and fuller sound (trying to avoid the word fat you’ll notice) and the fabled SSM oscillators and filters work beautifully within this earlier Dave Smith designed synth.

The system architecture does differ quite significantly to the later versions, in particular with the abundant use of the SSM chipset throughout, but that’s the point of the Rev 2 and why its the most coveted model of all the Prophet lineage. Reliability is sometimes muted as a reason to avoid them, but regular use and good care is the key to longevity with any vintage analogue hybrid device and we have seen no less or more reliability with the Rev 3 platforms – and we have seen quite a few of both. However, we have a twist to the tail here with this example as it’s had a lot of attention paid to it to make it the best it can possibly be, so read on….

What helps this particular Rev 2 in the (no expense spared) attention by the owner to have the synth improved/upgraded, some details of what has been done as follows:

All capacitors have been replaced.
A brand new Power-Supply has been fitted
New trimmers for all VCOs fitted
New resistors for the Auto-Tune circuit fitted
New DAC installed
Lots of Logic chips replaced
Kenton MIDI installed
Cassette interface installed
Full key-bed overhaul & bushings replaced

In addition to the above, new Riku firmware has been installed – for more information on this extensive upgrade option please click the link:

http://www.analog.fi/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=11&Itemid=9

The new firmware has lots of excellent features, like unison modes, new 2nd LFO, auto-tune improvements, front panel always live etc. Perhaps the perfect Rev 2..!

So, this beautiful instrument has been meticulously maintained, and in regular (home) use since the current owner purchased it in from the USA in 2011. Prior to this, we have no history on the Prophet 5, but it’s fair to say that this example is probably the best we have ever seen, and we’re very excited to be able to Broker it for our client.

This Rev 2 Prophet 5 is in 100% original cosmetic condition, with the panels (paint & screen printing) in excellent condition. You can actually see this Prophet 5 Rev 2 featured on the Vintage Synth Explorer website covering the Prophet 5 as it was used as the photo example for their webpage (pre-restoration & before the current owner purchased it) – link below:

http://www.vintagesynth.com/sci/p5.php

We have already had our vintage synth restoration experts – KSR, fully service this Rev 2, so it’s ready for sale now.

This is a fantastic opportunity to buy (arguably) the ‘best Prophet 5 to have,’ and the price has been agreed with our client to keep it as competitive as possible, bearing in mind the large investment already made into this perfect example.

The Prophet 5 Rev 2 is sold with our full 3 month warranty, runs on EU 220V, and is supplied with a flight-case – although please note that we won’t ship it anywhere in a flight-case, so collection only if the flight-case is wanted.

Price: £5500 GBP.

Availability: This Prophet 5 Rev 2 is now SOLD as at 27th October 2015.

Click on the thumbnail for higher resolution photo of actual synth.

Custom Roland Juno 60 – Very Special Edition (VSE)

Are you after the perfect Juno 60 – something very special?

We are delighted to announce that we have purchased another Juno 60 which has been custom finished to become one of our VSE Models – colour is white.

The RL Music ‘RESTORATION’ page on this website actually features the project restoration of these special Editions, and we have previously sold 18 Juno 60 VSE.

Came into stock: September 2015

Restoration Status: Customisation/Restoration work now underway.

Remarks: What’s a Juno 60 VSE?  Well, these customised versions have some very nice cosmetic restoration, and a complete operational refurbishment to produce a unique Juno 60.  Here are the highlights:

>Brand new solid Oak cabinets were hand made by Lamond Design.

>Panels are stripped and repainted, (black or white) – to RL Music specifications. The panels were then screen-printed using different graphic colours to complement the background finish.

>We supply & fit a new Minerva MIDI kits.

>KSR final assembly and fitting of MIDI kits PLUS full electronic overhaul and key-bed refurbishment, staining and hand finishing of wood cabinets and then 7 day soak-test.

>Total Custom Project Restoration time takes up to 10 weeks, involves 10 people in 8 different specialist businesses and cost over£1000 on each synth in restoration alone.

As you can see from the pictures, the results are fantastic – these instruments have been prepared to the very highest standard possible. The Minerva MIDI kits provide full SysEx control of the Juno and come pre-loaded with a full compliment of excellent patches.

Due to the amount of time & effort and funds invested into both these special examples they are sold with a full 6 months warranty, and the synth runs on EU voltage (220V).

Price Post-Restoration: £2450 UKP

Availability: This Juno 60 VSE is now SOLD as at 25th September 2015.

We are Brokering this Yamaha CS80 for and on behalf of our customer.

This CS80 has recently been delivered to our restoration partners – KSR in Surrey, UK.

The CS80 is in pristine condition, has had MIDI and the Unison mod fitted, and has been previously fully cosmetically & operatonally restored by RL Music, was supplied to the current owner. The CS80 is now due service, and may need some other minor cosmetic refurbishment, but all this will be included in the sales price.

Here is some information on what we invest into these amazing synthesizers, and what our customers can expect to receive:

All the RL Music supplied CS80s are restored by the world renown CS80 expert Kent Spong of KSR (Kent Spong Restorations) in London. Sound on Sound magazine (SOS) did an interview article on Kent, which you can find here:

http://www.soundonsound.com/sos/jun13/articles/kent-spong.htm

Extent of full Cosmetic & Operation Restoration (Total Restoration):
All aspects of the CS80 cosmetic and operational integrity are addressed including re-tolexing all the exterior, re-painting and screen printing all control surfaces and considerable electronic overhaul and upgrade. This work can take up to 12 weeks to complete from receipt of deposit.  Additional upgrade options are available as well, these are all detailed below.

The restoration level that KSR apply to RL Music supplied CS80 is not commercially available to anyone else. If you want some of the technical detail of whats covered on the operational aspect then please let us know.

What you could get in our Total Restoration Option:

>A pristine and fully operationally restored CS80, which can be converted to run on 220V or 110V depending on the customers requirements, although the instrument is currently set up to run on EU 220V.

>MIDI Supplied and Fitted.

>All control surfaces stripped and re-sprayed, and then re-screen printed to factory spec.

>Both synth and lid re-tolexed.

>New solid Walnut wood Surround, hand-made by Lamond Design (our appointed specialist cabinet maker).

>Cascade Unison Mod installed.

>An ultra-high pro-restored vintage synthesiser which is cosmetically stunning, reliable, in tune and can meet the demands of a commercial studio environment and an excellent investment as a historic instrument.

Previous Customers:
For over a 13 years, we have sold CS80s world-wide to musicians, bands, composers, studios and synth enthusiasts in general. Clients include: Hans Zimmer, Coldplay and numerous MI professionals – both artists and producers etc.  All CS80 owners expect the highest quality, and are in out experience, very discerning buyers, so we work to a level that ensures the instrument is every-day usable for years and meets expectations.

Warranty:
The CS80 would be sold with a 6 month warranty as standard which covers all parts and labour and telephone/Skype technical support. KSR also provide full after-sales technical support for the CS80 by phone, email and Skype post-warranty. KSR are world renown CS80 experts and currently support hundreds of these models around the world for professional musicians/studios and enthusiasts etc.

Upgrade Option 1:
If Midi is required on the CS80 then we are able to supply and install the Kenton Midi retrofit Kits for an additional £850 GBP. Payment for the Midi Kits must be made in advance along with the deposit mentioned below.

Upgrade Option 2:
Wood Surround (in Walnut) beautifully hand crafted by Lamond Design for an additional £750 GBP.

Upgrade Option 3:
KSR have designed the special modification for the CS80 (The Cascade Unison Mod ) so that if you press a single note then you get all 16 VCOs but if you press 2 notes together then it’s 8 voices per note..then 4 notes its 4 VCO’s per note etc etc. Thus meaning that it’s a kind of polyphonic unison, and offers new creative control of the powerful sound the CS80 delivers. Nearly all CS80’s we have sold in the last few years have had these fitted and it definitely adds great sonic value with no impact on the systems reliability or longevity. The Cascade Unison Mod costs £850 GBP.

Items of Note:
Most CS80’s have lost their ‘Pedals, Music Stand and Legs’ over the years, so in most cases we are unable to supply these orignal accessories to the new owner. However, this CS80 we are Brokering does come with the original expression pedal, chrome stand and Its original lid. We get asked a lot about what modern stands to use for these mighty synthesizers, so recommend the Quik-lok Mixer stand WS-650, although the original CS80 stand will also be fine if preferred.

Terms of Deposit & Sale on the CS80:
The CS80 can be reserved on deposit (50%) payable by bank transfer. Once the deposit has cleared, then we can normally have the CS80 ready from KSR in from 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the restoration option chosen. The balance of payment is due once the synth is ready. You are welcome to collect from us in the UK but we can have them custom crated and shipped world-wide.

Why Buy from RL Music:
Most of the restoration work we undertake against any high-end vintage synths these days involves the same amount of effort we describe above, so the prices have to reflect the investment in time, resources and skill made to get them to the highest possible quality and finest condition possible, and we know you will not find better anywhere in the world.

Price: As this CS80 has been previously full cosmetically & operationally restored, and fitted with MIDI/Unison Mod, then the above ‘option prices’ do not apply. It has its original wood surround. The sales price is £14500 GBP. This is a considerable saving over the normal upgrade price options for us to supply a CS80.

Availability: This CS80 is now SOLD as at 20th January 2016.

Library picture here is of the last CS80 we fully restored. The shot was taken just before it was packed and shipped out to an overseas customer. We’ll organise some photos of the actual CS80 for sale shortly and include them in this page.

RESERVE THIS CS80

We are Brokering this beautiful vintage synthesizer for and on behalf of our UK customer

Came into stock: 20th May 2015

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

Remarks: We’re delighted to be able to offer what we consider to be one of the finest analogue polysynths ever produced – the Roland Jupiter 8.

As many of you will know, we often need to subject these models to extensive operational and cosmetic restoration (costing over £2800 GBP) to bring them up to the highest possible standard, however, this actual JP8 had already gone through this process in 2009.

We call this ‘Total Restoration’ and the work produces an almost factory new-looking machine as all the metal the panels have been stripped and re-sprayed & screen-printed, and the aluminum end-cheeks re-anodised. All the electronics have been completely overhauled, key-bed refurbished and even a brand new new perspex display etc. This is the highest level restoration we can offer for these wonderful vintage synthesizers. RL Music has developed this highly specialised service for the Jupiter 8 as professionally prepared instruments of this standard are in such high demand from customers with high expectations of quality. You will not find any other business around the world offering anything close this level of restoration.

This Jupiter 8 has resided since it’s Total Restoration in the owners home, and has been kept covered when not used, so has been lovingly cared for. This is a very reluctant sale by the owner but they need to raise cash for a home purchase, otherwise it would have never come up for sale.

This Jupiter 8 is a 12 bit version and has been retro-fitted with a Kenton MIDI kit (by us).

The Jupiter 8 is a professional grade vintage instrument that’s only ever going to become more sought after and rare, so here is your opportunity to buy and absolutely stunning, top level restored example that’s got to be a keeper!

Runs on EU 220V, and is supplied with a owners manual (PDF), factory patches loaded, and sold with a 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: £7500 GBP.

Availability: This Roland Jupiter 8 is now SOLD as at 25th August 2015.

Click on the thumbnails for higher resolution photos of the actual Jupiter 8 for sale.

We are Brokering this Elka Synthex for and on their behalf of a UK customer

Came into stock: 25th March 2015

Restoration Status: KSR have recently undertaken a full service on this synth, so it’s ready for sale now.

ETR (estimated time from restoration): Available for sale now!

Remarks: 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.

This particular example we are Brokering for our customer was purchased from new, so only one owner, and it has a very interesting history. This actual instrument was used on tour (by the owner) with many great bands, including; Vice Squad, Bad Company, Paul Jones from Manfred Mann’s Earth Band, David Coverdale from Whitesnake and Iron Maiden…to name but a few. The Synthex was very well cared for during it’s time on the road.

The cosmetic condition is good (as you can see from the pictures), although certainly not pristine, but the sales price reflects this. If you have been after owning one of these amazing vintage synths, looking for a really reliable example that works perfectly, looks good for its age and is keenly priced, then this is a great opportunity.

Our own vintage synth restorers – KSR, have very recently full serviced the synth, so it’s 100% perfect on the operational side, with all functions/control working smoothly and as you would expect.

Being a Mk3 version, this Synthex has factory fitted MIDI as standard.

This Synthex operates on EU 220V, and is supplied with the original user manuals, factory cassette and flight-case (as pictured). As the instrument is being Brokered through RL Music, it will be sold with a full 3 month warranty, and can be shipped world-wide. We will fully test and clean the Synthex prior to sending out to any buyer, and demo’s are available by appointment only.

Guide Price Post-Restoration: £6290 UK Pounds.

Availability: This Mk3 Elka Synthex is now SOLD as at 1st September 2015.

Click on the Thumbnails for higher resolution customer supplied photos of actual Mk3 Elka Synthex for sale. If you require more then please ask.

Came into stock:  January 2015

Restoration Status: KSR have completed the full restoration on this Rhodes Chroma CC+

It could be said that the Rhodes Chroma is an instrument that sits very much ‘on the fence’ of Analogue and Digital tech. The famous designer of this instrument had a moment of genius, whilst at the same time was watching the company fold, but somehow the magic came right with a truly superb sounding vintage synth, and thank goodness!

The Chroma was the last synthesizer ever designed by  Phillip Dodd’s at Arp, just before Arp went into bankruptcy. There’s a sonic-soul to the synth that’s distinctly Arp in nature, and we alway’s felt the “Rhodes” banner confused the identity of this instrument somewhat, although without CBS/Fender, the Chroma would never have made ti to market or course.

This particular example came to us from a long-time customer in France, who is a Music professional/studio owner. The synth needed a full overhaul, which KSR have meticulously carried out, and additionally, treated all the cosmetics, like the wood cabinet and other surfaces, although this Chroma’s front-panel does show signs of wear. We have included 2 pictures that clearly show the discoloration and a small crack in the plastic control-surface panel – for full disclosure. This means we would rate this Chroma as an excellent overall condition studio synth, but not collector grade.

KSR, our vintage synth restorers, have gone through the entire system in great depth on the Chroma to ensure everything is 100% perfect operationally. They have also fitted a ancillary 5 volt PSU to the system thus providing rock solid stability for the CPU and other critical functions of the Chroma system etc., and removes the need to replace the original main-system PSU.

Additionally, we have also purchased/installed the superb CC+ CPU upgrade. thus bringing the Chroma right up to date in every aspect of the systems operation and MIDI functionality. This upgrade is not cheap but offers a very high quality upgrade path securing the synths place in a modern studio environment, plus the obvious future resale value being increased significantly.

Please click here to find out all about the CC+ CPU Upgrade

The Chroma is a very well loved and supported vintage model within the synth community. Chris Ryan has an excellent website dedicated to the model which has been a, excellent source of knowledge and support generally: rhodeschroma.com

This Rhodes Chroma is sold with a 3 month warranty and operates on EU 220V. Supplied with the synth is the CC+ MIDI break-out-box.

Price: £5990 UK Pounds

Availability: This Rhodes Chroma CC+ is now SOLD as at 17th April 2015

Click on the Thumbnails for higher resolution photos of actual Rhodes Chroma CC+ for sale.

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

Came into stock: 5th December 2014

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

Remarks: We are delighted to offer this excellent condition, late model with factory fitted MIDI – OSCar Synthesizer.

This particular example has been very well cared for throughout its life, and we know that it has been regularly serviced by KSR and The SynthProf in the UK over the last few years, so it’s in top condition. This OSCar has been used in numerous video game soundtracks and sound design projects – all home studio based.

The serial number on this OSCar is 0821.

The OSCar is an incredible synth and offers a huge array of on-board facilities, with a unique and powerful sound. There are plenty of sources on the internet that wax lyrical about this great synth, but Paul Wiffen wrote an excellent review for SOS magazine back in 1999 that’s worth a read. The link to that article is here:

http://www.soundonsound.com/sos/sep99/articles/oscar.htm

The operational condition of this particular example is perfect, although we will service the synth again prior to handing over to the new owner. The cosmetic condition is also superb, so this can be considered a ‘collector-grade’ instrument.

As with all Brokered Sales, the synth will be fully serviced & deep cleaned 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.

This OSCar is sold through RL Music with a 3 month warranty, operates on EU 220V. Also, a high quality PDF copy of the user manual will be supplied with the synth.

Price Post-Servicing: £2590 GBP.

Availability: This OSCar is now SOLD as at 11th December 2014.

Click on the thumbnails for higher resolution photos of actual synth (customer supplied).

We are Brokering this Yamaha CS80 for and behalf of a UK customer.

ETR (estimated time from restoration): Minimum 5 weeks from receipt of deposit, depending on restoration option.

Remarks: Here is some information on what we invest into these amazing synthesizers, and what our customers can expect to receive:

All the RL Music CS80s are restored by the world renown CS80 expert Kent Spong of KSR (Kent Spong Restorations) in London. Sound on Sound magazine (SOS) recently and an interview article on him, which you can find here:

http://www.soundonsound.com/sos/jun13/articles/kent-spong.htm

Extent of full Cosmetic & Operation Restoration:
All aspects of the CS80 cosmetic and operational integrity are addressed including re-tolexing all the exterior, re-painting and screen printing all control surfaces and considerable electronic overhaul and upgrade. The restoration level that KSR apply to RL Music supplied CS80 is not commercially available to anyone else. If you want some of the technical detail of whats covered then please let us know.

What you can get:

>A pristine and fully operationally restored CS80 which is re-tolexed, and can be converted to run on 220V or 110V depending on the customers requirements.

>MIDI Supplied and Fitted.

>All control surfaces stripped and re-sprayed, and then re-screen printed to factory spec. We work with Customsynth for this highly skilled cosmetic work.

>Wood Surround (in Oak) hand finished by Lamond Design (our appointed specialist cabinet maker). Walnut finish also available.

>Cascade Unison Mod installed.

>An ultra-high standard vintage synthesiser which is cosmetically beautiful, reliable, in tune and can meet the demands of a commercial studio environment.

Previous Customers:
I have for many years sold CS80s world-wide to musicians, bands, composers, studios and synth enthusiasts in general. High profile clients include: Hans Zimmer and Coldplay. All CS80 owners expect the highest quality, and are a discerning buyer, so we work to a level that ensures the instrument is every-day usable for years.

Warranty:
The CS80 would be sold with a 6 month warranty as standard which covers all parts and labour and telephone/Skype technical support. KSR also provide full after-sales technical support for the CS80 by phone, email and Skype (post-warranty). KSR are world renown CS80 experts and currently support hundreds of these models around the world for professional musicians/studios and enthusiasts etc.

Upgrade Option 1:
If Midi is required on the CS80 then we are able to supply and install the Kenton Midi retrofit Kits for an additional £850 GBP. Payment for the Midi Kits must be made in advance along with the deposit mentioned below.

Upgrade Option 2:
Wood Surround (in Oak) hand crafted by Lamond Design for an additional £650 GBP. Walnut finish available upon request.

Upgrade Option 3:
KSR have designed the special modification for the CS80 (The Cascade Unison Mod ) so that if you press a single note then you get all 16 VCOs but if you press 2 notes together then it’s 8 voices per note..then 4 notes its 4 VCO’s per note etc etc. Thus meaning that it’s a kind of polyphonic unison, and offers new creative control of the powerful sound the CS80 delivers. Nearly all CS80’s we have sold in the last few years have had these fitted and it definitely adds great sonic value with no impact on the systems reliability or longevity. The Cascade Unison Mod costs £850 GBP.

Items of Note:
Most CS80’s have lost their ‘Pedals, Music Stand and Legs’ over the years so in most cases we are unable to supply thes orignal accessories to the new owner. The CS80 we are Brokering does not come with any of these items although I can recommend the best keyboard stand to use etc.  The CS80 does come with its original lid which will also be re-Tolexed.

Terms of Deposit & Sale on the CS80:
The CS80 can be reserved on deposit (60%) payable by bank transfer and, once the deposit has cleared, then we can normally have the CS80 ready from KSR in around 8 to 10 weeks. The balance of payment is due once the synth is ready. You are welcome to collect from us in the UK but we can have them custom crated and shipped world-wide.

Why Buy from RL Music:
Most of the restoration work we undertake against any high-end vintage synths these days involves the same amount of effort we describe above, so the prices have to reflect the investment in time, resources and skill made to get them to the highest possible quality and finest condition possible, and we know you will not find better anywhere in the world.

Guide Price Post-Restoration Option A: The price of a fully cosmetically and operationally restored CS80 is £15990 GBP.  This price excludes the upgrade options – 1,2 and 3.

Guide Price Post-Restoration Option B: The price of a fully  operationally only restored CS80 is £14000 GBP.  This price excludes the entire cosmetic restoration work or the upgrade options – 1,2 and 3.

Availability: This CS80 is now SOLD as at 19th November 2014.

Customer supplied pictures of actual CS80 for sale below, so please click on the Thumbnails for higher resolution photos.

Restoration Status: This Rhodes Chroma CC+ is nearing completion from restoration at KSR, and should be completed in September 2014.

It could be said that the Rhodes Chroma is an instrument that sits very much ‘on the fence’ of Analogue and Digital tech. The designers of this system in many ways had moments of genius, whilst at other times suffered with complete madness, but somehow the magic came right to offer a truly superb sounding vintage synth.

The key to restoring one of these fabulous instruments is finding a good quality example in the first place, and that’s a real challenge these days. This superb example was brought in from our music-pro customer in France – we are subjecting it to an extensive restorative overhaul, both cosmetically and operationally. KSR, our synth restorers, also fitted a brand new 5 volt PSU to the system thus providing rock solid stability for the CPU and other critical functions of the Chroma system etc.

We have also purchased and (KSR) fitted the amazing CC+ CPU upgrade thus bringing these vintage systems right up to date. This upgrade is not cheap but offers a very high quality upgrade path securing the synths place in a modern studio environment, plus the obvious future resale value being increased significantly.

Please click here to find out all about the CC+ CPU Upgrade

The Chroma is a very well loved and supported vintage model within the synth community. Chris Ryan has an excellent website dedicated to the model which has been a, excellent source of knowledge and support generally: rhodeschroma.com

This Rhodes Chroma is sold with a 3 month warranty and has been converted to operate on EU 220V.

Price: £5690 UK Pounds

Availability: This Rhodes Chroma CC+ is SOLD as at 12th September 2014.

Click on the Thumbnails for higher resolution photos of previously restored Chroma CC+. High-res pictures of the actual synth for sale will be made available post-restoration.