Korg PS-3200 –...

Came into stock: Available from RL Music from January 2025

Servicing Status:  

KSR had undertaken an extensive cosmetic and operational restoration, with the project spanning several years but mostly completed by the end of 2024, thanks to the fine efforts of Kent Spong.

Remarks:

We have decided to sell our complete system Korg PS-3200.  This instrument forms a part of the RL Music Vintage Synthesizer Collection.  We have managed to keep some of the very best examples of Vintage Synthesizers that come through our business over the last 22 years which we kept for our pleasure and interest. Whilst having a privileged position as a specialist dealer in this genre of equipment, we managed to hang on to particular instruments that were interesting and inspiring to us.  This Korg PS-3200 is among 40 instruments we own, and it has been the subject of a full and very detailed cosmetic and operational restoration by our trusted vintage synth tech, Kent Spong of KSR.

It’s generally accepted that Korg only produced around 200 of the PS-3200, a number that is difficult to verify with any accuracy, but regardless of it being 100 or 500 units made, such limited quantities make this model a very rare hand-made instrument by any definition. 

Due to the nature of limited production run instruments like this Korg PS-3200, certain aspects to the sale will be unique, so we have tried our best here to fully represent the instrument with all the information we have available and honestly and acutely describe it. We encourage any prospective buyer to ensure you have all you need to make an informed decision to purchase it, so we are available to field any enquiry you may have, but we hope the following information covers all the pertinent details on this very special instrument.

Provenance:

We purchased this PS-3200 from a UK seller (an expert user) in 2015, and we collected it in person from their studio in the South of England. At the time of the sale, the Korg was fully working but had not been professionally serviced so we decided to add it to our Korg ‘PS’ collection as this completed the full lineup and then decide later on what we wanted to do with it. We do not have any prior history about this PS-3200, but like most examples of this model we have seen over the years, they are generally well looked after, robust and reliable hand-made instruments by Korg.

The overall condition of the PS-3200 was all original and very good but it was showing signs of wear to all the cosmetic surfaces and the faux wooden cabinet, wear that was indicative of a 35+-year-old (at the time) synthesizer, so after some consideration, we decided to go for a full operational and cosmetic restoration.  This kind of very high-level restoration was something we used to do quite a lot in the past but demand for highly restored vintage synths has declined in recent times due to the accelerating prices for vintage gear in any condition, so we found that prices have dominated people’s decisions rather than the added value (and cost) that comes with restoration work. However, as we owned this PS-3200 for our private collection then the huge restoration effort and costs were a personal choice, and it most certainly added value to this particular example.

System Configuration:

PS-3200 – Main frame

PS-3010 – Keyboard Controller

PS-3030 – Remote 

PS-3001 – Cable

Kenton MIDI Retrofit Kit Fitted

This particular PS-3200 comes with the extremely rare PS-3030 Remote, which was a unique solution for live-playing musicians to have access to the PS-3200 patch memories. It’s rather a quirky device through modern eyes but in the context of a synth player in 1978, this was a remarkable high-tech, ground-breaking facility for a polyphonic synthesiser for its time.

We purchased a brand new MIDI retrofit kit from Kenton Electronics UK for this PS-3200, so KSR installed this into the Korg at the time the operational restoration work was being carried out.

Historical Context:

The Korg PS-3200 is a historically significant synthesizer that emerged during a transformative period in electronic music. Here’s a detailed historical context for its development and impact:

  1. The Synthesizer Revolution of the 1970s

The 1970s were a golden age for synthesizer innovation. As electronic music gained popularity, musicians and producers sought more expressive and versatile instruments. Early synthesizers, like the Moog Modular systems and ARP 2600, were groundbreaking but often monophonic (capable of playing only one note at a time). The demand for polyphonic synthesizers—capable of playing multiple notes simultaneously—grew, leading to the development of instruments like the Korg PS-3200.

2. Korg’s Entry into the Synthesizer Market

Korg, founded in 1962 by Tsutomu Katoh and Tadashi Osanai, initially focused on producing rhythm machines and electronic keyboards. By the mid-1970s, Korg had established itself as a serious competitor in the synthesizer market with instruments like the Korg MiniKorg 700 and the Korg MaxiKorg. The PS-3200, released in 1978, was part of Korg’s PS (Polyphonic Synthesizer) series, which also included the PS-3100 and PS-3300. These instruments were designed to meet the growing demand for polyphonic capabilities in a professional studio and live performance context.

3. Technological Advancements in the PS-3200

The PS-3200 was a technological marvel for its time. Key features included:

48-note polyphony: Unprecedented for an analogue synthesizer, allowing for rich, layered sounds.

Programmable presets: Unlike many analogue synthesizers of the era, the PS-3200 allowed users to save and recall sounds, a feature that was highly innovative.

Unison detuning: This feature allowed for thick, chorused sounds that became a hallmark of the PS-3200’s sonic character.

These advancements made the PS-3200 one of the most advanced synthesizers of its time, competing with other high-end polyphonic synthesizers like the Yamaha GX-1 and the Oberheim Polyphonic Synthesizer.

4. Limited Production and Exclusivity

The PS-3200 was a hand-built instrument, requiring significant labor and expertise to assemble. This, combined with its high cost limited its production would have had a niche appeal to buyers in the late 1970’s. As a result, it was primarily used by professional musicians, studios, and wealthy enthusiasts. Its exclusivity and advanced features contributed to its legendary status.

5. Influence on Music and Culture

The PS-3200 was used by prominent artists and producers in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Its lush, analogue sound made it ideal for creating pads, strings, and atmospheric textures. While it was not as widely adopted as some other synthesizers of the era (like the Minimoog or Prophet-5), it had a significant impact on the development of electronic music and synthesizer design.

6. Legacy and Historical Significance

The Korg PS-3200 represents a pivotal moment in the history of synthesizers. It showcased the potential of polyphonic analogue synthesis and programmable presets, paving the way for future innovations in electronic music technology. Today, the PS-3200 is a highly sought-after collector’s item, valued for its rarity, historical importance, and unique sound.

Conclusion

The Korg PS-3200 is a symbol of the creativity and ambition of the late 1970s synthesizer industry. Its advanced features and limited production have cemented its place as a classic in the history of electronic music, influencing both the technology and the artistry of sound synthesis.

About Restoration & Servicing:

This Korg PS-3200 has been subjected to what we used to term as ‘Total Restoration,’ so a complete operational and cosmetic overhaul plus brand new cabinets were produced by Ross Lamond in solid Walnut for the mainframe, PS-3010 Keyboard Controller and the end-cheeks for the PS-3030 Remote device. The original faux chipboard and synthetic veneer cabinets were donated to Ross Lamond at the time of manufacture so he could correctly replicate the cabinets, these are no longer available, but the beautiful solid Walnut cabinets are stunning.

Our good friend and highly regarded vintage synth tech – Kent Spong at KSR,  was commissioned to undertake the restoration work, but there were several specialist suppliers involved in the restoration, so here are the highlights of what has been done to this PS-3200.

  • Complete disassembly of all control surfaces, so all potentiometers and jack socks are removed from all panels by KSR.
  • mainframe control surface, PS-3010 Keyboard and PS-3030 Remote panels sent to a professional powder coating business in the UK.
  • Post-powder-coating, the panels were hand-delivered to our printing specialist in the UK to have all the screen printing carried out. All the artwork for this was custom produced and paid for by us and our printer carried out all the work.
  • Walnut Wood Cabinets collected by hand from Lamond Design (no longer trading) and delivered to KSR for preparation – staining and waxing etc.
  • A MIDI Retrofit Kit was purchased from Kenton Electronics.
  • Brand new 1/4 inch Switchcraft jack sockets for both the mainframe and PS-3010 Controller
  • Brand new power socket on the mainframe control panel.
  • Once all the various parts were ready from our restoration partners (above) then everything was delivered to KSR for assembly:

– Re-capped the entire PS-3200 with new capacitors, inc PSU

– Replace all 1/4 inch jack sockets with new Switchcraft sockets

– Cleaned all PCB edge-connections

– Reassembly of all control surface components

– Install Kenton MIDI Kit-Finalising – system-wide testing and calibrations

-The card-edge connectors on this PS-3200 were all in excellent condition so the decision was taken not to replace these during the restoration.

 KSR do not produce restoration reports but the above works carried out are extensive and the final product is more akin to a brand new instrument. We don’t know how much labour was involved in this restoration project as a whole but with all the parties involved, it’s likely hundreds of hours and (we know) thousands of £-pounds.

For many discerning buyers, the investment we have made into this PS-3200 is highly valued, and at the time of producing this document, we are not aware of any comparable PS-3200 being offered for sale in the world.

This Korg PS-3200 came from the factory with a manually switchable power supply, so this can operate on JPN 100v, US 110V or EU 220V.  In the UK, we have this set to 220V.

We do not have any original user or service manuals but will provide a PDF copy of the user manual.

Packing & Shipping: 

We can ship this PS-3200 worldwide, although the packing, shipping & insurance costs are not included in the sale price below, so are subject to quotation.  We intend to have the Korg professionally packaged by us to ensure maximum safety during transport.  This would require custom-sized export-grade boxes and associated packing materials, which would be ordered from our packaging partner, specifically tailored to the unique physical dimensions of the components that make up this system, so the consignment would be for 2 boxes minimum. We don’t think it would need to be palletised, but it will be fully insured for the sale price below, and a customer insurance policy will be required for the consignment (subject to quotation).  

Unless specified by the buyer, we would not remove all the PCBs and ship these separately, but this can be accommodated if required but this will add additional packaging materials and labour costs, plus that option will impact the post-sale warranty terms.

The packaging solution will be tailored to the buyers’ needs, so please speak to us about your preferences at the time of ordering and we will provide a solution and quotation that meets your requirements.

Alternatively, UK buyers can collect the PS-3200 from us in Reading, Berkshire, or we might be able to arrange a dedicated delivery in person, subject to the destination address & quotation. 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: 

£25,000 GBP 

As this Korg PS-3200 is owned by RL Music, VAT is applicable on the sale of this to UK buyers. Packing & shipping are also subject to VAT @ 20% should you need the goods shipped to you.

Payment:

Due to the values involved, we can only accept payment by bank transfer, details of which will be supplied in our invoice.  International Bank Wire Transfer is therefore accepted.

Availability: 

This Korg PS-3200 System is available for sale now.

Pictures coming shortly!

We are planning on collecting the PS-3200 from KSR shortly, so once we have the instrument we will then get some nice high-resolution images sorted out. If you have any specific photos taken of the Korg then please contact us and let us know what you need.

BUY THIS KORG PS-3200

Memorymoog

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

Came into stock: December 2024.

Servicing Status: A full service was carried out by Kent Spong at KSR in December 2024.

Remarks: 

Nothing sounds like a Memorymoog – so let’s just get that out of the way first as it’s a very powerful hybrid analogue polysynth that is unique and demands attention in the mix!

This particular Memorymoog (Serial #2074X) is what we term a ‘Standard’ model, so a first edition before MIDI and a Sequencer was added in production, so produced from 1981, which would date this particular example as around 42 to 44 years old. This was produced as an EU 220~240V model so would have been exported by Moog in 1981 for the EU/UK market originally, so this is not a subsequent import per se.

Our client has owned this Memorymoog for many years and had a Kenton MIDI Retrofit Kit fitted back in the 1990s.  When the Moog arrived at the KSR workshop there were some operational issues that Kent did a deep-dive diagnosis on and found that the (very old/legacy) Kenton MIDI kit was faulty.  We did speak to Kenton about getting the Kit repaired but they said it was a very early iteration that they no longer can support. The decision was taken to remove the MIDI kit completely, but the Moog retains the MIDI sockets and reset button on the rear of the synth, so a replacement kit can be installed if the new owner would like that facility and the legacy sockets utilised.

Kenton Electronics still produce the MIDI Retrofit Kit for the Memorymoog, their current supply price only is £460 (inc VAT & postage), and KSR would charge an additional £150 to install it.

KSR were commissioned to fully service the Memorymoog after the MIDI kit was removed, the servicing was only completed within the last couple of weeks so the Moog is fresh for the workshop and working perfectly, so among several critical service items, all 6 VCOs are calibrated and tuned to perfection.

Why Buy a Memorymoog?

Buying a vintage Memorymoog, a polyphonic analogue synthesizer from the early 1980s, can be a fantastic choice for several reasons. Here are some key points:

1. Rich, Analog Sound

  • The Memorymoog features six voices, each with three oscillators, offering an incredibly lush, warm, and powerful analogue tone. Its sound is often described as massive, capable of producing pads, leads, and basses with immense character that modern digital emulations struggle to replicate.

2. Classic Moog Filter

  • It incorporates the classic Moog 24 dB/octave ladder filter, renowned for its smooth resonance and musical warmth, contributing to its signature analogue character.

3. Polyphonic Capabilities

  • While many classic Moog synthesizers are monophonic, the Memorymoog provides six-voice polyphony, making it highly versatile for chords, pads, and complex soundscapes.

4. Historical Significance

  • The Memorymoog represents a milestone in synthesizer history as one of the most powerful analogue polysynths of its time. Owning one is akin to having a piece of musical heritage.

5. Hands-On Control

  • With an array of knobs and sliders, the Memorymoog offers immediate and tactile control over sound parameters, appealing to musicians who prefer physical interfaces over digital menus.

6. Unique Character

  • Each vintage Memorymoog has its quirks due to ageing components, giving it a distinctive character that adds to its charm. Many musicians appreciate this unpredictability as part of the analogue experience.

7. Investment Value

  • Vintage synthesizers like the Memorymoog do appreciate over time. Well-maintained units are sought after by collectors and musicians, making it a potential investment.

8. Sound Design and Studio Use

  • Its unique tonal palette and rich sonic capabilities make it a valuable tool for sound designers and producers, especially in genres like electronic, ambient, and cinematic music.

If you value authentic analogue sound and the charm of a vintage instrument, the Memorymoog could be a rewarding addition to your setup, and we stated earlier, that nothing sounds like this instrument.

If you would like to have MIDI fitted to this post-sale then please call or email Richard and discuss your requirements with him. The MIDI kit can be purchased and fitted as a post-sale activity, although there will be a delay in completing the work as the MIDI kits are made-to-order by Kenton and they usually quote a 4-week lead-time from order to dispatch, but we can have the kit posted straight to Kent at KSR, for him to fit if your prefer.

This Memorymoog will come with a 3-month warranty from us and operates on EU 220V (fitted with UK UK-style 3-pin plug). We can supply a PDF copy of the User Manual.

Packing & Shipping: 

We can ship this Memorymoog 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 each instrument.  We are happy to discuss your requirements so please email us if you have any questions on the logistics and/or need a quote.

Sales Price:  £9,490 GBP

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

Availability: 

This Memorymoog is available for sale now.

Click on the thumbnail for a higher resolution photo of the actual Memorymoog 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 MEMORYMOOG

Korg Trident Mk1 w/M...

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

Came into stock: December 2024.

Servicing Status: A full service was carried out by Kent Spong at KSR in December 2024. 

Remarks: 

This Korg Trident Mk1 has been in our client’s ownership for many years and they had a MIDI retrofit kit added, so this example does have MIDI. The Trident had been unused and stored for a while so KSR were commissioned to fully service it, which was only completed within the last couple of weeks so it’s fresh out of the workshop and ready for a new owner to enjoy it.

The cosmetic condition is excellent, and although not quite as pristine as the other Mk1 Trident we are offering for sale right now, it’s certainly another rare opportunity to find such a nice-looking example, and with MIDI.

Why Buy a Vintage Korg Trident MK1?

The Korg Trident Mk1 is celebrated for several reasons that make it a beloved instrument among synthesizer enthusiasts and musicians:

1. Triple Synthesis Sections

The Trident Mk1 combines three distinct sections:

  • Synthesizer Section: Offers a classic analogue subtractive synthesis engine with rich, warm tones.
  • Brass Section: Features ensemble-style brass sounds with a lush character.
  • Strings Section: Known for its silky, lush string ensemble tones, enhanced by onboard modulation options.

This versatility allows for complex layering and sound design possibilities that were groundbreaking at its release.

2. Polyphony and Layering

The Trident Mk1 provides an 8-voice polyphony in its synth section and 16-voice polyphony in its string section. The ability to split and layer sounds across the keyboard is a major draw, enabling deep, evolving textures.

3. Analog Warmth

The instrument’s fully analogue signal path delivers a warm, organic sound characteristic of vintage synthesizers. This analogue warmth is particularly cherished in modern music production, where such a character is often emulated digitally.

4. Onboard Ensemble Effects

The built-in ensemble effect is a standout feature, adding depth and lushness to the sound, especially in the strings and brass sections. This effect is integral to the Trident’s iconic sound.

5. Intuitive Interface

The Trident Mk1 has a straightforward, hands-on interface with dedicated sliders and controls for each section. This makes it easy to shape and blend sounds in real-time, a significant advantage for live performance and spontaneous creativity.

6. Build Quality and Aesthetics

The Korg Trident Mk1 has a robust build with a vintage aesthetic that appeals to collectors and musicians alike. Its wooden end panels and tactile controls exude a sense of quality and craftsmanship.

7. Historical Significance

Released in 1980, the Trident Mk1 represents a pivotal moment in synthesizer history, bridging the gap between fully analogue machines and more complex hybrid systems. Its sound palette was a staple in many genres, including progressive rock, new wave, and early electronic music.

8. Cult Following

Its relative rarity and unique features have given it a cult following. Musicians and producers who own one often praise its distinctive sound and character.

In short, the Trident Mk1 is a versatile, beautifully designed instrument that combines the best elements of early 1980s analogue synthesis, making it both a nostalgic and practical choice for sound enthusiasts.

Packing & Shipping: 

We can ship this Trident 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 each instrument.  We are happy to discuss your requirements so please email us if you have any questions on the logistics and/or need a quote.

This Korg Trident Mk1 is supplied by us with a 3-month warranty. This is a 220~240V machine that is powered via its internally wired power cable to a UK 3-pin plug.  Included in the sale is the original owner’s manual, which is also in excellent condition.

Sales Price: £4,290 GBP

As this is a brokered sale, VAT is not applicable on the sale of this Trident Mk1 to UK buyers, however, packing & shipping/insurance is subject to VAT @ 20% should you need the goods shipped to you.

Availability: 

This Korg Trident Mk1 with MIDI is available for sale now.

Click on the thumbnail for a higher resolution photo of the actual Trident 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 TRIDENT MK1

Roland Jupiter 4

We are Brokering this Roland Jupiter 4, for and on behalf of our UK client.

Came into stock: Available from RL Music from November 2024

Servicing Status:  A full service was carried out by Kent Spong at KSR in August 2024. 

Remarks:

We present an excellent condition Roland Jupiter 4, which is 100% original and unmodified and has been part of our client’s collection for only a few years.  Our client recently commissioned KSR to fully overhaul the JP4, to get it ready for sale through us.

The Roland Jupiter-4, released in 1978, was groundbreaking as Roland’s first polyphonic synthesizer and remains celebrated for several reasons. Here’s why it stood out and still holds appeal today:

1. Warm Analog Sound

The discrete analogue voice architecture on Jupiter 4 gives it a uniquely lush and organic sound.

Its single oscillator per voice (with a sub-oscillator) creates rich, punchy tones, ideal for bass, leads, and pads.

2. Early Polyphony

With 4 voices of polyphony, it brought true polyphonic synthesis to a relatively compact and affordable instrument in its time.

3. Built-in Presets and User Programmability

Featured 10 presets (strings, brass, organ, etc.) and space for 8 user-programmable patches, which was innovative in the late 1970s.

Allowed musicians to save their custom sounds, making it more practical for live performances.

4. Iconic Roland Filter

The Jupiter-4 uses the IR3109 filter chip, giving it a characteristic smooth and resonant Roland sound.

The filter’s behaviour has a unique “bite,” making it especially expressive.

5. Ensemble Effect

Its ensemble (chorus) effect adds depth and width, contributing to its lush, dreamy textures, similar to a string machine.

Cosmetic Condition:

The control surfaces/panels on the synth & keyboard have been deep cleaned and are in outstanding condition and retain all original slider caps and controls. The cabinets and faux wood side-cheeks are all in excellent condition and show minimal but reasonable wear for a 50-year-old synthesizer.

Notes on the Servicing:

Kent at KSR has gone through the entire instrument.  Many original parts were retained to ensure continuity and authenticity but some ageing components like power conditioning caps have been replaced, but only were necessary. all the sliders and potentiometers had been deep cleaned and a full function test of every PCB. 

This is a fantastic opportunity to buy what’s largely considered to be a ‘gem’ in the vintage synth world, and finding examples that are in entirely original condition is rare so this is a wonderful opportunity to own something quite special.

The JP4 runs on EU 220~240V.  We can also supply a PDF copy of the owner’s manual.

All our vintage instruments are sold with a 3-month warranty, please see our Terms & Conditions for full details.

Packing & Shipping: 

We can ship this Jupiter 4 worldwide, although the packing, shipping & insurance costs are not included in the sale price below, so they are subject to quotation.  The synth is located with us in Reading, so you are welcome to collect it from us if you prefer.

There may be short delays in getting the packaging materials produced for shipping as they are custom ordered for the specific dimensions of each instrument.  We are happy to discuss your requirements, so please email us if you have any questions about the logistics and/or need a quote.

Price: £4,500 GBP

Availability: This Roland Jupiter 4 is now SOLD – this listing was updated on Thursday 5th December 2024 @ 07:56 GMT.

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

BUY THIS JUPITER 4/button]

Arp 2600 V4.0 + 3620

We are Brokering this vintage Arp 2600 + 3620 duo-phonic keyboard for and on behalf of our UK client.

Came into stock: Available from RL Music from November 2024

Servicing Status:  A full service was carried out by Kent Spong at KSR in August 2024. 

Remarks:

We present the excellent condition vintage Arp 2600 semi-modular which contains the sought after (and so-called) post-lawsuit Moog 4072 style filter. This instrument is at least 50 years old (built between 1972 and 1974) looks beautifully vintage and sounds amazing.

This Arp 2600 is a version 2600P v4.0, with the post-lawsuit 4072 Filter + 3620 Duo-Phonic Keyboard controller. It features Semi-normalised – 3 VCOs (type 4027-1), 4 pole Lowpass VCF, VCA, Ring Modulator, 2 EGs, sample & hold Noise, Mic Preamp, 17-inch Spring Reverb, Voltage Processor and Four Octave Keyboard….the list goes on.

This Arp system has been in the ownership of our client for only around 5 years having got it from the original owner who purchased it new. This 2600 has never been gigged and is 100% original, so has all its original tolex and original circuitry.  When our Client purchased this Arp, it had been stored for several years so KSR was commissioned to carry out a complete overhaul to get it up to spec and ready for sale through us.

Buying a vintage ARP 2600 synthesizer is a fantastic choice for several reasons, especially if you’re passionate about analogue synthesizers and classic sound design. Here’s why:

1. Classic Analog Sound

  • The ARP 2600 has a rich, warm analogue tone that is nearly impossible to replicate digitally. Its oscillators, filters, and modulators create a sound that is both iconic and versatile.
  • Many famous musicians and sound designers have used the ARP 2600, making it a staple in the history of synthesizers.

2. Historical and Collectible Value

  • Released in the early 1970s, it is a piece of synthesizer history. Owning one is like having a relic of the golden era of analogue synthesis.
  • As vintage gear, its value often increases over time, making it not just a tool but also an investment.

3. Hands-On Creativity

  • The semi-modular design lets you patch your signal paths while still being usable without patch cables. This strikes a perfect balance between modular flexibility and ease of use.
  • The tactile interface encourages experimentation and sound design.

4. Build Quality

  • Vintage ARP 2600s were built to last, with solid construction and high-quality components. Properly maintained, they can continue to produce amazing sounds for decades.

5. Unique Features

  • Features like the built-in spring reverb and iconic ARP filter (which varies depending on the production year) make it distinct from modern synthesizers.
  • The integration of pre-patched configurations and modular flexibility offers unmatched creative opportunities.

6. Cultural Significance

  • It has been used in countless classic tracks across genres and is famous for being the voice of R2-D2 in Star Wars. Owning one connects you to this legacy.

Cosmetic Condition:

The control surfaces/panels on the synth & keyboard have been deep cleaned and are in outstanding condition and retain all original slider-caps and controls. All the cabinets/lids for both the synth and keyboard are covered with the original factory-fitted tolex, which is all in excellent condition. These 50-year-old portable semi-modular synthesisers are hard to find in original condition like this so it’s a fantastic opportunity to buy a genuine vintage 2600 that’s in factory spec. 

The bright work (nickel-plated components like catches and hinges) are all original and all show a perfectly aged patina.

Notes on the Servicing:

Kent at KSR has gone through the entire synth and keyboard. Many original parts were retained to ensure continuity and authenticity but some ageing components like power conditioning caps have been replaced, but only were necessary. all the sliders and potentiometers had been deep cleaned and a full function test of every PCB. 

The keyboard was stripped and completely overhauled, and new neoprene bushes were fitted etc.

The original 3620 keyboard is certainly useful and is the historically correct partner for this model of 2600. The 3620 offers duo-phonic control and pretty decent access to the extensive inputs into the main synth, so to get the most out of the 2600 we would recommend using a multi-channel Midi to CV device like the Kenton Pro-2000 which can give you 3-note polyphonic control if needed, although any 1V/Oct analogue controller/sequencer etc., will work fine.

This is a fantastic opportunity to buy one of the most iconic vintage synths ever made with its, completely original control surface cosmetics, original factory-fitted tolex and the unmodified and paired synth and keyboard. The sales price has been agreed with our client to keep it very competitive and by far the best value comparable example in the UK and Europe at the time of posting this page.

These outstanding vintage semi-modular synthesizers are hard to find in decent condition, so here is a rare opportunity to own an original example that will only appreciate and add something special to your studio/home.

Supplied with all lids, OE keyboard CV/Gate interconnect cable and UK type- to-3-pin proprietary power cable. The Arp runs on EU 220~240V.  We also supply the original colour-printed Arp 2600 owner’s manual (pictured below).

All our vintage instruments are sold with a 3-month warranty, please see our Terms & Conditions for full details.

Packing & Shipping: 

We can ship this 2600 worldwide, although the packing, shipping & insurance costs are not included in the sale price below, so they are subject to quotation.  The synth is located with us in Reading, so you are welcome to collect it from us if you prefer.

There may be short delays in getting the packaging materials produced for shipping as they are custom ordered for the specific dimensions of each instrument.  We are happy to discuss your requirements, so please email us if you have any questions about the logistics and/or need a quote.

Price: £9,990 GBP

Availability: This Arp 2600 & 3620 Keyboard Controller is available for sale now.

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

BUY THIS ARP 2600

Korg Trident Mk1

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

Came into stock: December 2024.

Servicing Status: 

A service will be carried out by Kent Spong at KSR upon completion of the sale. 

Remarks: 

The original Mk1 Korg Trident is a wonderful vintage instrument packed with a load of character, and being SSM technology based, the Synth, Brass and String Machine and packed full of modulation, voicing and timbre controls as well as onboard effects in the form of an absolute killer Flanger and beautiful Ensemble.  Simply…It’s gorgeous!

Being a Korg, the build quality of this early 1980s produced synth was very high, a testament to the fact that it’s still working perfectly with all the original controls working perfectly and all present.

This Trident Mk1 has been in our client’s ownership since brand new, so a single owner machine, and in their own words ‘only ever very lightly used at home,’ which is clearly evident from the pristine condition. .  The operational condition is perfect, so the synth only needs a light service to re-cap the power-supply and put a new battery in, which we will carry out post-sale for the new owner.  

The cosmetic condition is the headline here as it’s genuinely in as-new condition, quite remarkable and without any doubt, the finest example vintage synth we have ever had the pleasure of selling. 

The last thing to note is that the owner had kept the original retail packaging for this beautiful condition instrument, so it’s will be supplied with this to the new owner. If we do end up shipping this to whomever buys it then we would purchase an outer-box to offer some additional protection to the synth and to preserve the OE packaging as that does add to its collectability.

This collectors piece is sold through RL Music with a 3-month warranty. This is a 220~240V machine that is powered via its internally wired power-cable to a uK 3-pin plug. Included in the sale is the original owners manual, which is also in excellent condition and a Korg foot-switch

Packing & Shipping: 

As mentioned above, the Trident requires a service to principally cover any future proofing needs, and a new battery, so this work will add a couple of weeks to the timeline in terms of completing the sale. We will require the sale to have been completed before this will be undertaken.

We can ship this Trident 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 each instrument.  We are happy to discuss your requirements so please email us if you have any questions on the logistics and/or need a quote.

Sales Price: 

£4,800 GBP

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

Availability: 

This Korg Trident Mk1 is available for sale now.

Click on the thumbnail for a higher resolution photo of the actual Trident 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 TRIDENT MK1

Arp 2600 v3.0 &...

We are Brokering this Arp 2600 + 3604-p keyboard for and on behalf of our UK client.

Came into stock: Available from RL Music from July 2024

Servicing Status:  A full service was carried out by Kent Spong at KSR in July 2024. 

Remarks:

We present the excellent condition vintage Arp 2600 semi-modular which contains the sought after (and so-called) pre-lawsuit Moog 4012 style filter. This instrument is at least 50 years old (built between 1972 to 1974) looks beautifully vintage and sounds absolutely amazing.

This Arp 2600 is a version 2600P v3.0, with original 4012 Filter + 3604P Keyboard controller. It features Semi-normalised – 3 VCOs (type 4027-1), 4 pole Lowpass VCF, VCA, Ring Modulator, 2 EGs, sample & hold Noise, Mic Preamp, 17 inch Spring Reverb, Voltage Processor and Four Octave Keyboard….the list goes on.

This Arp system has been in the ownership of our client’s family for many years but had been stored for quite a while, so KSR was commissioned to carry out a complete overhaul to get it up to spec and ready for sale through us. Details of the work carried out as follows:

Cosmetic Condition:

The control surfaces/panels on the synth & keyboard has been deep cleaned and are in outstanding condition and retain all original slider-caps and controls. To retain authenticity. It looks like the cabinets/lids for both the synth and keyboard have been re-tolexed at some point in the past, and the condition of that tolex is excellent. The Tolexing was not done by KSR, but whomever carried it out was certainly skilled as it’s been very well cared out.  

The bright-work (nickel-plated components like catches and hinges) are all original and all show a perfectly aged patina.

Notes on the Servicing:

Kent at KSR has gone through the entire synth and keyboard. As may original parts were retained to ensure continuity and authenticity but some ageing components like power conditioning caps have been replaced, but only were absolutely necessary. all the sliders and potentiometers had been deep cleaned and a full function test of every PCB.  There was a fault on one of the (potted)  4027-1 VCO’s, which is why it is un-potted (see photos on the circuit boards below), but that has been fixed using NOS parts.

The keyboard was stripped and completely overhauled, and new neoprene bushes fitted etc.

The original 3604P keyboard is certainly useful, and is the historically correct partner for this model of 2600. The 3604-P offers limited access to the extensive inputs into the main synth, so to get the most out of the 2600 we would recommend using a multi-channel Midi to CV device like the Kenton Pro-2000 which can give you 3 note polyphonic control if needed, although any 1V/Oct analogue controller/sequencer etc., will work fine.

This is a fantastic opportunity to buy one of the most iconic vintage synths ever made with its, completely original control surface cosmetics, unmodified and paired synth and keyboard. The sales price has been agreed with our client to keep it very competitive and by far the best value example in the UK and Europe at the time of posting this page.

These outstanding vintage semi-modular synthesizers are hard to find in decent condition, so here is a rare opportunity to own an original example that will only appreciate in value and add something special to your studio/home.

Supplied with all lids, some assorted OE 3.5mm jacks, OE keyboard CV/Gate interconnect cable and UK type- to-3-pin proprietary power-cable. The Arp runs on EU 220~240V.  We also supply an Arp 2600 owners manual (PDF).

All our vintage instruments are sold with a 3 months warranty, please see our Terms & Conditions for full details.

Price: £8,990 GBP

Availability: This Arp 2600 & 3604-P Keyboard Controller are available for sale now.

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

BUY THIS ARP 2600

Oberheim Xpander

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

Coming into stock: Came into stock in May 2024.

Servicing Status: KSR have carried out a service on this Xpander in May 2024.

Remarks: Much has been written on these incredible synthesizers and it’s understandable when you use them as they really can deliver a thick analogue wall of sound, and are perfect pad and brass sources just for starters.

The Xpander lineage includes the Matrix 6 and 12 and is a fully midi configured, 6 voice Polysynth – an excellent addition to any analogue set-up and has to be heard to be believed. he Xpander offers a deep programmable architecture for those of you into tweaking but can also be a very user-friendly hands-on preset machine.  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-1980s.

About This Xpander:

This example is a USA built unit that works perfectly, and as mentioned above, has just been fully serviced by KSR.  The cosmetic condition is all original and absolutely first class, excellent, as you can see from the pictures below, with barely any perceptible marks or signs of use, which is quite remarkable for a 40+ year old music instrument.

The owner purchased a Star Dust cover for it a few years ago and it is supplied with the synth on-sale.  The cover is well used and has done a fantastic job protecting the instrument.

We are Brokering this Xpander for a private owner whom imported from the USA in 2016. It has only ever been used in a home studio environment since. 

The Xpander runs on US115~230V (switchable), is supplied with an IEC cable with UK-plug fitted and photocopy of the June 1984 user manual by Daniel Soferan. In addition, an original factory presets cassette is also supplied.

Packing & Shipping: 

We can ship this Xpander worldwide, although the packing, shipping & insurance costs are not included in the sale price below, so they are subject to quotation.  The synth is located with us in Reading, so you are welcome to collect it from us if you prefer.

There may be short delays in getting the packaging materials produced for shipping as they are custom ordered for the specific dimensions of each instrument.  We are happy to discuss your requirements, so please email us if you have any questions about the logistics and/or need a quote.

Price: £4,150 GBP

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

Availability: 

This Xpander is now SOLD. This listing was updated on 4th August 2024 @ 10:02 GMT.

Click on the thumbnail for a higher-resolution photo of the actual Oberheim Xpander for sale.

BUY THIS OBERHEIM XPANDER

Roland Juno 106

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

Came into stock: 

December 2023

Service Status: 

A full service was carried out by Ben Rossborough at Cyberwave EMS in November 2023, including it being retrofitted with the 80017A VCF VCA Juno-106 voice chip Filter IC clones from Analogue Renaissance.

Remarks: 

Without any doubt a true vintage synth and a very useable and practical analogue polysynth keyboard for live use as well as studio.  The is among the first factory fitted MIDI synths from Roland in the early 80s, and with its on-board effects (chorus) and a really warm 24db/Oct filter, it sounds (and is) really retro whilst the DCO’s provide strong tuning stability.

The more advanced MIDI control on the 106 (SysEx) means you can use external patch-editors (Mac & PC) although in truth it’s not all that complex to program from the front panel…which is a big part of the joy of owing a vintage synth like this.

Background:

Our client purchased this many years ago, and the Juno 106 had only ever been used at his home but they now work abroad so the synth had been stored away for some time. It was recently sent over to Ben at Cyberwave for a full service as it had been stored for a while, and the full suite of brand new VCF/VCA installed as mentioned above, so it’s a  good to go.

Condition:

The cosmetic condition is outstanding, excellent as you can see from the photos included in this listing that we took. 

Health-Check & Servicing:

Operationally it’s 100% having just had a full service. 

This Juno 106 is a EU220V machine, we will supply a UK type plug IEC cable.  We also have the original Roland Juno 106 Owner Manual for this synth, which is included in the sale.  

Packing & Shipping: 

We can ship this Juno 106 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 each instrument.  We are happy to discuss your requirements so please email us if you have any questions on the logistics and/or need a quote.

Sales Price: 

£1,700 GBP

As this is a brokered sale, VAT is not applicable on the sale of this Juno 106 to UK buyers, however, packing & shipping/insurance is subject to VAT @ 20% should you need the goods shipped to you.

Availability: 

This Roland Juno 106 is now SOLD.  This loisting was updated on Wednesday 24th January 2024 @ 09:56 GMT.

Click on the thumbnail for a higher resolution photo of the actual Juno 106 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 JUNO 106

Roland SH-3A

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

Service Status: 

A full service was carried out by Kent Spong at KSR Services in October 2023.

Remarks: 

Roland started producing some really unique synthesizers in the mid 1970s, and they were built to a very high standard and certainly have lasted. The SH-3A was conceived as a portable full function analogue synth that had bags of charter and shared much of the same architecture & functionality from the SH-5, SH-7 and even the System 100 etc, so we think this represents excellent value for money.

Background:

Our client purchased this Roland SH-3A new in 1975, so it’s a single owner machine that’s been in their possession for just shy of 50 years, and only ever been used in a home environment.  This is a UK model, so 220~240v, and is hard-wired with a UK 3-pin plug which is stored in the compartment within the flight-case in the underside of the synth.

Servicing:

As mentioned above, Kent at KSR has just going the SH-3A a full service, so it’s perfectly working and sounding like a SH-3A should, and he commented that the synth is in beautiful condition inside and out.

Condition:

We rate this as in excellent all original condition, unmodified and complete with its music stand, lid and original owner manual, so very much a collectors grade instrument, that’s ready to play.

Documents:

Although we don’t have the original sale receipt from 1975, the synth does come with its original user manual.

Packing & Shipping: 

We can ship this SH-3A 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 each instrument.  You are also welcome to collect the SH-3A from us in Reading.

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: 

£1,050 GBP

As this is a brokered sale, VAT is not applicable on the sale of this SH-3A to UK buyers, however, packing & shipping/insurance is subject to VAT @ 20% should you need the goods shipped to you.

Availability: 

This Roland SH-3A is available for sale now.

Click on the thumbnails for a higher resolution photo of the actual SH-3A for sale.  These two images are supplied by our client pre-servicing but we will be organising some more pictures shortly, so we’ll update the  listing with these once ready.

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 ROLAND SH-3A

Schmidt 8-Voice

We are Brokering this limited production run and modern classic for and on behalf of our UK client.

Service Status: 

Full health-check to be carried out post-sale.

Remarks: 

We present a fabulous opportunity to own a mint condition 2018 production version Schmidt 8-Voice Polyphonic Synthesizer – Serial number 057. There were only 100 Schmidt 8-Voice manufactured, in batches of 25 at a time, so this example came from the third production run, assembled and shipping from Schmidt during 2018.

About the Schmidt 8-Voice Polyphonic Synthesizer:

Schmidt themselves have a website dedicated to this incredible instrument, so we would recommend you click the link below to find out all about what makes this already a classic and among one of the most highly desirable synthezisers ever made:

https://www.schmidt-synthesizer.com/en/

Background:

Our client purchased this Schmidt 8-Voice in December 2017, and as the instrument was built to order for them, they took delivery of it on 21st September 2018. It has resided in a home studio since then and kept under a dust cover when not in use, so is in as-new condition with actually very little use. Our client confessed that due to demands of running his own business, he has not had much time to actually play the Schmidt, and feels it should go to someone else who can get better use from it.

It was originally shipped from Schmidt securely contained within a custom flight-case, and our client had retailed that, so the instrument will be supplied with this case as part of the sale.

We have a copy of the original sale s receipt which might be available to the new owner, subject to our clients approval as it does contain personal details of course, but this forms part of the instruments provenance.

Health-Check:

As this is an almost new machine, we will not be needing to carry out any maintenance on the Schmidt, but it will be fully tested by us prior to handing it over to the new owner.

Condition:

As new – mint condition.

Packing & Shipping: 

We can ship this Schmidt 8-Voice worldwide, although the packing, shipping & insurance costs are not included in the sale price below, so are subject to quotation.  Due to the sheer size and weight of the flight-cased instrument, we would recommend having it custom crated and palleted for shipping overseas.  UK buyers would be able to collect it from us in Reading and/or we might be able to deliver it in person, depending on your location, and subject to quotation.

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: 

£19,990 GBP

As this is a brokered sale, VAT is not applicable on the sale of this Schmidt 8-Voice to UK buyers, however, packing & shipping/insurance is subject to VAT @ 20% should you need the goods shipped to you.

Availability: 

This Schmidt 8-Voice is no longer available for sale.  This listing was updated on Wednesday 6th March 2024 at 13:07 GMT.

Click on the thumbnail for a higher-resolution photo of the actual Schmidt 8-Voice for sale – these were supplied to us by our client.  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.

BUY THIS ARP SCHMIDT 8-VOICE

Arp Omni Mk2 #2471

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

Service Status: 

A full service was carried out by Jim McKenna of Singing Cat Services in May 2023.

www.singingcatservices.co.uk

Remarks: 

The Omni Mk2 has becomes a difficult instrument to find in 2023, and to reveal one that’s in such beautiful condition as this example is, has to be a very rare opportunity. 

Background:

Our client purchased this Arp Omni Mk2 new from Chase Music in Manchester on 3rd September 1980 – we have the original sales receipt, although will not publish this as it contains personal data, but it will be provided to the buyer of this Arp. The provenance is therefore perfect for this 43+ year old Omni Mk2, 

Our client had assembled a modest & much valued vintage synth collection over the years, all of which we have the honour for selling for him as he has made the difficult decision to let these instruments pass to new owners/custodians. The Arp Omni Mk2 has been cherished, played & enjoyed only ever at home, during his 43 years of ownership.

Servicing:

As mentioned in the introduction, this Omni Mk2, went through a complete professional service by Jim McKenna Singing Cat Services in May 2023, as part of the pre-sale diligence in getting it ready for sale and in top operational condition for the new owner. We have been provided with a service report against the works carried out at Singing Cat Services, so please clock the link below so you can open up the PDF:

Singing Cat Services Serve Report – Arp Omni Mk2 #2471 PDF.

Also, our client had James Walker at Synth Repair Services carry out a service on the Omni Mk2 on 20th February 2008. We have the original receipt so will provide this to the new owner pos-sale but again, we will not publish this online as it contains personal data,

Condition:

Well, we would rate this as excellent condition, but you can decide yourself by looking at the pictures below. The final production date of the Arp Omni Mk2 was in 1981, so this example may be 46 years old, and it’s a completely original machine, so no mods, a true survivor and highly collectable like this.

Documents:

Our client had retained all the original documents since he purchased the Arp in 1980, so the following documents will be provided with the synth (see picture below):

Arp Omni-2 Owners Manual  Operation Manual (dated 1978) with also includes schematics and some service notes on how to calibrate it.

Arp Omni-2 User Patch-book 

Arp Omni-2 Promotional 33 1/3 Stereo Record

London Synthesiser Centre – Sticker 

Chase Musicians – Original Sales Receipt (held off-line)

Synth Repair Services – Service receipt from 20th Feb 2008 (held off-line)

Health-Check:

As this Arp Omni was recently serviced in May this year, the synth does not need any further attention, but as part of our post-sale process, we will ask Kent Spong at KSR to carry out a health-check on the Arp once the sale has completed.  This will add a couple of weeks to the post-sale timeline.

This Arp Omni Mk2 operated on EU220V~UK240V, and has a UK type plug fitted to the power chord.  

Packing & Shipping: 

We can ship this Arp 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 each instrument.  You are also welcome to collect the Omni Mk2 from us in Reading.

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: 

£2,400 GBP

As this is a brokered sale, VAT is not applicable on the sale of this Arp Omni Mk2 to UK buyers, however, packing & shipping/insurance is subject to VAT @ 20% should you need the goods shipped to you.

Availability: 

This Arp Omni Mk2 is available for sale now.

Click on the thumbnail for a higher resolution photo of the actual Arp Omni Mk2 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 ARP OMNI-2

Yamaha DX1

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

Servicing Status: KSR have carried out a full health-check on this DX-1 in June 2023.

Remarks: A good all original condition Yamaha DX-1, which we have previously sold to the current owner but they are now Brokering it back through us for re-sale.

What is there to say on this 1983 flagship synthesizer that has not already been written, but it’s a very rare machine with only 140 reported to have ever been manufactured, so a really unique find in 2023. I terms of some historic information, we have found a useful website that has a dedicated page to the DX-1, which also includes some videos.  If you would like to delve into the back-story on the DX-1 and understand more about it’s capabilities and sounds the please click the link below to find out more:

Classic Gear -The Yamaha DX1: Owning and Recreating the King of FM

We are not affiliated, nor have we contributed or edited any of the information provided in the link above, so this is an independent source for the DX-1 which we hope you find of interest.

Cosmetic Condition:

The overall condition of this example is very good, with the normal amount of wear we would expect to see on a synth this age, size and quality. We sold this DX-1 to our EU customer, so it was shipped out of the UK against the original sale and then was re-imported in May this year, having been sent straight to Kent Spong at KSR for some servicing, where the instrument currently resides. 

The photos below were taken at KSR, so are un-doctored and show the overall presentation.

Operational Condition:

The following declaration is made in good faith and is an honest account of the current operational condition of this example.  

All the controls, LEDs, functions of the control panel work as they should, so LED buttons are all operational.  However,  Bank A Voice 5 button feels slightly different to operate than the others which suggests the component is faulty, but it does function, although it can be intermittent. We are not aware of a replacement for this part as it would appear to be a DX-1 specific component but we are declaring this as a known issue.

The LDC display is fully working with all segments showing properly and brightness is perfectly readable.  The volume LED indicator on the right hand side, next to where to says ‘DX-1  ’ on the front panel has one of the tiny LED segments that is dimmer than all the rest (the 14db) and one that does not work (the 96 db) – I’ve attached a photo I took when we had it set up in the workshop .

The sliders top the right of the instrument all work correctly.

The modulation and pitch-wheel both operate correctly.

The DX- sound engine itself operates correctly.  There are some classic ‘DX’ patches loaded in the system, I did try to edit some sounds and all the edit functions were available are working, although I didn’t save those changes.

The professional weighted 73 note wood keyboard was fully working in terms of triggering notes, and the velocity was 100% working across all keys.

The Polyphonic After-Touch (Poly-AT) is not operating at more than 30% of the keyboard. Kent has gone though each key to check the after-touch sensors and there are many that simply are not working.  Kent at KSR does not currently have any supply for replacements, so this is not something Kent has a resolution for, but the owner is aware and this is factored into the sale price.

In consulting with Kent at KSR on the reality on getting the Poly-AT system fully restored, as I know this would be of interest to any potential buyer,  Kent told me that every DX-1 he had seen had similar issues as there are no replacement parts for the Poly-AT sensors at present.  He said that in the last 6 years he had serviced two DX-1 owned by MI professionals, and both those machines also had significant Poly-AT sensor failures, so it would seem to be consistent with the age of these machines.  I personally would be very suspicious of anyone selling a DX-1 stating that the Poly-AT system was 100% based on this reality.

Summary:

We have seen people advertising the Yamaha DX-1 from £60,000 to nearly £150,000 GBP in recent years, which is eye-watering, but with such a small production run plus is being such an historic instrument with A-list users like Dire Straits and Michael Jackson et al, it’s not hard to understand why people might value them this high.  With the declared operational condition of this particular DX-1 in mind, we have agreed with our Client, the owner, to price this example much more realistically. The price below is not subject to VAT in the UK as this is a commission sale but it might be subject to import duties in your own country, if you are purchasing outside the UK.

This DX-1 has multiple power settings so it’s able to operate in any country around the world without he need for any external power-supplies to step-up or down. We will also supply  a PDF copy of the owners manual.

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

Packing & Shipping: 

We can ship this DX-1 worldwide, although the packing, shipping & insurance costs are not included in the sale price below, so they are subject to quotation.  The synth is located with KSR in the UK, so you are welcome to collect it from then directly if you prefer.

There may be short delays in getting the packaging materials produced for shipping as they are custom ordered for the specific dimensions of each instrument, and for the DX-1, we would recommends having it custom crated and palletised.  We are happy to discuss your requirements, so please email us if you have any questions about the logistics and/or need a quote.

Price: £28.990 GBP

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

Availability: 

This DX-1 is NOT currently available for sale.

Click on the thumbnail for a higher-resolution photos of the actual DX-1 for sale.

BUY THIS YAMAHA DX-1

Roland Jupiter 8 w/M...

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

Coming into stock: Came into stock in February 2022.

Servicing Status: KSR have carried out a service on this Jupiter 8 in February 2023.

Remarks: A beautiful condition Roland Jupiter 8 (12bit model) – Serial Number: 161512, which has been retrofitted with a Groove MIDI kit.

We are always very happy to sell any Jupiter 8 and this one is an excellent representative example that has MIDI as well. What can we say that hasn’t already been written about the JP8…honestly, nothing new.  However, we’ve seen relative values for this flagship vintage analogy poly-synth climb sharply in recent years, so they’ve become unaffordable to most people, which is a real shame.

The overall condition is excellent, with far less than he normal amount of wear we would expect to see on a synth this age, so this example has been very well cared for throughout its existence. The photos below tell the story, but even the base of this JP8 is in great shape.

We discussed the price at some length with our client and agreed keep the sale price as reasonable as is possible for this model, so we think you will find this cheaper by far than any currently available JP8 for sale in the world right now, in comparable condition, with MIDI, fully serviced and sold with a guarantee. 

Our client purchased a Stardust (pictured) cover for the synth to keep it well protected, so this is supplied in the sale.

This JP8 operates on EU220~UK 220V and has a UK type 3-Pin plug fitted.  We will also supply  a PDF copy of the owners manual.

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

Packing & Shipping: 

We can ship this Jupiter 8 worldwide, although the packing, shipping & insurance costs are not included in the sale price below, so they are subject to quotation.  The synth is located with us in Reading, so you are welcome to collect it from us if you prefer.

There may be short delays in getting the packaging materials produced for shipping as they are custom ordered for the specific dimensions of each instrument.  We are happy to discuss your requirements, so please email us if you have any questions about the logistics and/or need a quote.

Price: £19,710 GBP

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

Availability: 

This Jupiter 8 is SOLD. This listing was updated on 13th July 2023 @ 15:52 GMT.

Click on the thumbnail for a higher-resolution photo of the actual Jupiter 8 for sale.

BUY THIS JUPITER 8

Yamaha CS-60

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

Came into stock: December 2022.

Servicing Status: Full service by KSR was already carried out in December 2022, so this Yamaha CS-60 is ready for sale now.

Remarks: We are delighted to offer this superb condition example Yamaha CS-60, which is supplied with its original lid, legs and expression & sustain pedals.

The CS-60 is an 8 x VCO – 8 note true polyphonic synth with essentially the same panel layout and identical sound engine as the flagship CS-80, including aftertouch (mono). Also, this model offers user-programmable sounds/storage, which might not sound much of a big deal in 2023, but in 1978 that was a key selling point and something the cheaper CS-50 didn’t offer.

As mentioned above, this CS-60 (serial #1237) was fully serviced by master CS Series technician; Kent Spong at KSR in December 2022, so it is 100% fully operational. The cosmetic condition of the front panel is excellent, and Tolex covering in very good shape overall with some light wear but no damage/tears, and the metal catches and hinges are all present, although the chrome does show patina. This CS-60 is complete as it comes with its original lid, legs, expression and sustain pedals and bag.

This example is factory stock in terms of specification, so no modifications have been implemented. Kenton is still producing a MIDI retrofit kit for this model.  If you would like to have MIDI fitted, please speak to us about your requirements when you enquire, and we will provide the costs for the supply of the kit and installation by Kent at KSR.

Quite remarkably, our client purchased this CS-60 new from the London Synth Centre in 1978, and it’s only ever been used at home.  This exceptional provenance can be documented as a signed letter should the buyer of this synth wish to have that as proof.  This does add intrinsic value as a single-owner machine is such a rare occurrence for a 45 year old instrument.

This CS-60 is sold through RL Music with a 3-month warranty. It operates on EU220~UK240V and is fitted with a UK type 3-pin plug. We can supply the user manual in PDF format.

Packing & Shipping: 

We can ship this CS-60 worldwide, although the packing, shipping & insurance costs are not included in the sale price below, so they are subject to quotation.

There may be short delays in getting the packaging materials produced for shipping as they are custom ordered for the specific dimensions of each instrument.  We are happy to discuss your requirements, so please email us if you have any questions about the logistics and/or need a quote.

Sales Price: 

£10,000 GBP

As this is a brokered sale, VAT is not applicable on the sale of this CS-60 to UK buyers. However, packing & shipping/insurance is subject to VAT @ 20% should you need the goods shipped.

Availability: 

This CS-60 is available for sale now.

Click on the thumbnail for a higher-resolution photo of the actual CS-60 for sale.  If you require specific pictures not already featured of the instrument, please get in touch with us so we can try and accommodate your request, but there may be a short delay in getting this done for you as the instrument is currently in secure storage.

BUY THIS CS-60

Yamaha CS-50

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

Came into stock: November 2022.

Servicing Status: Full service by KSR has already been carried out in November 2022, so this Yamaha CS-50 is ready for sale now.

Remarks: We are delighted to offer this excellent condition example Yamaha CS50, which is supplied with its original lid.

The Yamaha CS series polysynths have a beautifully characterful and distinctive sound that is unique. The CS50 has essentially the same panel layout and sound engine that CS-60 and CS-80 use, including aftertouch (mono). It’s a 4 x VCO – 4 note true polyphonic synth, and this synth produces some beautiful timbres whilst having a bright and very playful character, and is a wonderful instrument and a superb stepping stone to its more powerful siblings – the CS-60 and the incredible CS-80.

This CS-50 (serial #1916) has already had a full service by master CS Series technician; Kent Spong at KSR, so is 100% fully operational. The cosmetic condition of the front-panel is excellent, and tolex covering in good shape overall with the normal wear and tear that these have, and the metal catches and hinges are all present although the chrome on these are showing patina.

This CS-50 is sold through RL Music with a 3-month warranty. It operates on EU220~UK240V and is fitted with a UK type 3-pin plug. We can supply the user manual in PDF format.

Packing & Shipping: 

We can ship this CS-50 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 each instrument.  We are happy to discuss your requirements so please email us if you have any questions on the logistics and/or need a quote.

Sales Price: 

£8,000 GBP

As this is a brokered sale, VAT is not applicable on the sale of this CS-50 to UK buyers, however, packing & shipping/insurance is subject to VAT @ 20% should you need the goods shipped to you.

Availability: 

This CS-50 is available for sale now.

Click on the thumbnail for a higher resolution photo of the actual CS-50 for sale.  If you require specific pictures not already featured of the instrument then please contact us so we can try and accommodate your request but there may be a short delay in getting this done for you as the instrument is currently in secure storage

BUY THIS CS-50