We are Brokering these vintage Arp instruments 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: 

We present a fabulous opportunity to own a stunning condition late production version Arp 2600 that comes partnered with its companion keyboard controller, the 3620. In addition, this beautiful 2600 is complete with the 1621 Sequencer. This iteration of 2600 represent the final production version, often referred to as the ‘Black & Orange,’ or 2601 v2.0 (possible v3.0)

This production version contains the post-lawsuit Moog 4072 style filter. This instrument is at least 43 years old (likely built in 1979).

Background:

Our client purchased this Arp 2600/3602 and 1621 Sequencer together brand new from Chase Music in Manchester on 16th January 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 combo. The provenance is therefore perfect for this 43+ year old equipment. 

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. These beauty vintage Arp instruments have all been cherished, played & enjoyed only ever at home, during his 43 years of ownership.

Servicing:

As mentioned in the introduction, the Arp 2600 Synth, 3602 Keyboard and 1621 Sequencer, all went through a complete professional service by Jim McKenna Singing Cat Services in April/May 2023, as part of the pre-sale diligence in getting it ready for sale and be 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 Service Report – Arp 2600 & 3620 #2602/0208 PDF.

Singing Cat Services Service Report – Arp 1621 Sequencer #1621-01121 PDF.

Also, our client had James Walker at Synth Repair Services carry out a minor service service on the 2600 on 18th April 2016. 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:

We consider all three instructs to be in outstanding condition, stunning, but you can decide yourself by looking at the pictures below. As province goes it does not get any better than a single owner instruments, and they are all 100% completely original machines, so no mods, so true survivors and highly collectable like this.

The Tolex covering on both the synth and keyboard is in exception condition with only some tine blemishes in places, and the nick plated fixtures and fitting are all present and have the expect patine for an instrument of this age. The console surfaces for both instruments is exemplary and all the original control knobs and slider caps are present.

The 1621 Sequencer is also in absolutely top cosmetic condition, probably the very best example we have seen, and is also equipped with all it’s original slider caps and program buttons, which are so bright and white they look like new!

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 post-sale (see picture below):

For 2600 & 3620:

Arp 2600 Owners Manual (dated 1971) 

Arp 3620 Keyboard Owners Manual (dated 1977) 

Chase Musicians – Original Sales Receipt from 6th January 1981 (held off-line)

Magazine article/review on the 2600

For 1621 Sequencer:

Arp Sequencer Owners Manual (dated 1975)

Arp Promotional Colour Brochure (period produced)

Chase Musicians – Original Sales Receipt from 6th January 1981 (held off-line)

Synth Repair Services – Service receipt from 18th April 2016 (held off-line)

Accessories Included:

Included with the sale of the Arp 2600 & 1621 Sequencer is an assortment of cables, 12 in all of differing lengths, which will get you started with you patching. The only proviso on these OE cables are that they are at least 43years old so may not be reliable. We do not cover these parts under any warranty against defects, so we would recommend you purchase some new 3.5mm cables for a more reliable operation as we consider these parts as consumables in real terms.

In addition to the patching cables,  there are 2 foot-pedals included, one is an OE Arp pedal and the other is a third-party device. As with the cables, we do not cover these items under warranty but they are included within the sale as a courtesy.

Health-Check:

As this Arp 2600 3260 & 1621 Sequencer were serviced in May this year, so all items 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 Arps once the sale has completed.  This will add a couple of weeks to the post-sale timeline.

Both the Arp 2600 & 1621 Sequencer operate on EU220V~UK240V. The 2600 comes with a proprietary power-cable that has a UK type plug fitted to it and the sequencer is supplied with a UK tyre IEC cable.  

Packing & Shipping: 

We can ship this Arp combo 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 equipment 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: 

£15,690 GBP

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

Availability: 

This Arp 2600, 3260 Keys & 1621 Sequencer are both SOLD.  This listing was updated on 8th November 2023 @ 10:39 GMT.

Click on the thumbnail for a higher resolution photo of the actual vintage Arp instruments 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 2600+SEQ

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

Came into stock: Became available as a Brokered Sale in October 2022.

Restoration Status: A full restoration was carried out in 2017.

Remarks: We have a remarkable opportunity for you to own a true one-off example of what is considered to be one of the finest vintage synths ever made – the Arp 2600, but with a lot of extra added value.

Standard Arp 2600 features: Semi-normalised – 3 VCOs (4027=1), 4 pole Lowpass VCF (4012), VCA, Ring Modulator, 2 EGs, sample & hold Noise, Mic Preamp, Spring Reverb, Voltage Processor and Four Octave Keyboard….the list goes on. This is an Arp 2600 (2600P V3.0). There is no Keyboard controller included with this sale.

What is different about this Arp 2600?

Wood Cabinet: As you can see from the pictures below, our client decided to have a custom Walnut cabinet made (by Lamond Design) in 2017 for the synth, replacing the original plywood/tolexed case. the cabinet was hand-made by Ross Lamond and finished (stained and waxed) by Kent Spong at KSR post-build. The results are sublime, and as far as we know, this is unique…stunning! All the metal hardware was also replaced with the black anodised fittings to the case. KSR spent 4 days carrying out this highly skilled work in 2017.

Metal Control Panel: The main control panel has been stripped, repainted and screen printed to produce an ‘as new’ finish. This is expensive and very time-consuming work and the panel restoration was completed at the end of 2017. KSR had to strip down the Arp completely so the panel could be sent away for the cosmetic treatment, so the synth has been fully rebuilt by KSR and serviced – around 50 hours work in total (not including the cabinet refinishing work).

Modifications by CMS (Phil Cirocco): Our client commission CMS in the USA to carry out some mods on this Arp 2600, so here is a list of what’s been done to this synth:
>Variable octave switches and pot for all 3 VCOs, range of 2 octaves
>Sync switches 2-3, 3
>17″ reverb tank upgrade
>1/4″ input and outputs (main in/outs)
>Upgraded PSU – running EU 220V
>All sliders were chemically cleaned and lubricated, VCO trimmers replaced
Our client spent over $2000 USD with CMS for these modifications in 2017 – to find out more about CMS then please click this link: http://www.discretesynthesizers.com/arptronics/arp2600.htm

The original owner had invested thousands of pounds on having this Arp 2600 prepared to such a high standard and it certainly stands out as a unique and stunningly beautiful example. The sales price does reflect the investment made and quality of the finish, the technical preparation by two of the industries leading vintage synth specialists.

Brokering Status:

We sold this custom Arp 2600 to its current owner in 2018, and the synth now resides with them in Finland, so it’s located within the EU boarders.  The owner has verified that the instrument is 100% fully operational and in the same condition as when we sold it.  To save potential EU buyers form the complexity and additional  VAT burden of buying this item from RL Music in the UK, we have decided to not to import it back here but to sell it from our client in Finland.  This means that we are not able to sell the Arp with a warranty, so it is sold in ‘as-is’ condition, but it is available to demo upon request.

This custom rebuilt Arp 2600 operates on EU 220V. Included in the sale is proprietary Arp power-cable, and we will also include a PDF copy of the user manual.

Price: £10,990 GBP.

Availability: This custom rebuilt Arp 2600 is now SOLD:  THis listing was updated on 25th January 2023 @ 12:46 GMT.

Pictures of this Arp 2600 are below – high-res pictures available on request.

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

Came into stock: May 2022.

Servicing Status: Full health check by KSR has already been carried out in May 2022, so this TTSH is ready for sale now.

Remarks: This little baby clone of one of the world’s most famous analogue semi-modular synthesizers is a pretty good effort, and we have enjoyed playing it as it works like a 2600 and sounds great.  Having MIDI fitted is useful, and all the LED sliders are pretty.

Our client, a long-time and experienced vintage synth owner decided to try the TTSH back in 2017 as there were no vintage Arp 2600 available at the time. He purchased it from a UK builder (Mr Alistair) and has used it continually, but circumstances now force the sale, so he’s asked us to handle the disposal for him.

Kent at KSR has gone through the TTSH (it’s a Rev 3), and it’s passed as all being 100% perfectly working.  As you can see from our photos, it’s cosmetically like new, although there is a small horizontal crack on the back-panel wood near the output section, which you can see from the picture below; otherwise, it’s in excellent condition.

This TTSH is sold through RL Music with a 3-month warranty and operates off a 2-Pin external power adaptor (wall-wart) that’s rated 100-240V-to-12V/1.5A output. We were not supplied with any patch cables or a user manual, although we can supply an Arp 2600 user manual in PDF, which will cover the user needs of the TTSH.

Packing & Shipping: 

We can ship this TTSH worldwide (it’s not bog or heavy), 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: 

£1,490 GBP

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

Availability: 

This TTSH Arp 2600 Clone is now SOLD.  This listing was updated on 22nd December 2022 @ 11:05 GMT.

Click on the thumbnail for a higher-resolution photo of the actual TTSH for sale.  If you require specific pictures not already featured of the instrument, then 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.

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

Came into stock: June 2021.

Servicing Status: Full health check by KSR has already been carried out in June 2021, so this Serge Modular System is ready for sale now.

Remarks: 

A mint condition and immaculate 2015 built Serge Modular purchased from Rex Probe of STS in the USA by our client.  We have the original specification and invoice from STS, which details the exact build and accessories included in the system, so we have removed some of the personal data from that document, but you can see the specifics in the PDF link below, but here is the principle system build:

http://www.rlmusic.co.uk/rlm3/serge_2015/

Configuration Highlights:

‘ANIMOO’ PANEL #1: (listed from left to right as laid out on the panel – totalling 16”) 

1.New Timbral OscillatorNTO 3 “ 

2.Precision VCOPCO 2 “ 

3.Wave MultipliersVCM 2 “ 

4.Ring ModulatorRING n/a 3-jack version embedded in VCM

5.Audio Mixer (3×1)AMX 1 ” w/ ‘Phase Invert’ toggle switch & DC coupling 

6.Smooth/Stepped Generator/Noise SSG + NOI2 ” includes the ‘Noise’ source 

7.Dual Transient GeneratorDTG 2 ” add ‘Signal In’ banana jacks 

8.Extended Range VC ‘Q’ FilterVCFQ(X) 2 ” Hi/Lo frequency range toggle switch 

9.Universal Audio ProcessorUAP 2 ” w/ ¼” Phone Jack Outs (TS) 

‘ANIMATE’ PANEL #2: (listed from left to right as laid out on the panel – totalling 16”) 

1.Preamp DetectorPRNV 1 ” w/ Voltage Comparator section 

2.New Timbral OscillatorNTO 3 ” w/ “HI-LO” Range toggle switch 

3.Triple WaveshaperTWS 2 “ 

4.Audio Mixer (3×1 w/ phase invert) AMX1 ” w/ ‘DC coupled’ Inputs #1 & 2 

5.Variable Bandwidth VC FilterVCF2 2 “ 

6.Wilson Analog DelayWAD 3 “ 

7.Dual Universal Slope Generator DSG3 “ 

8.Cross-Fader (2×1)XFAD 1 “ 

‘SEQUENCER’ PANEL #3: (listed from left to right as laid out on the panel – totalling 16”) 

1.Sequencer (8×2)SEQ8 4 “ 

2.Analog Shift RegisterASR 1 ” w/ ’Signal Attenuator’ pot 

3.Active ProcessorACPR 1 “ 

4.Dual Voltage Controlled ClockCLK 2 “ 

5.Pulse DividerPDIV 1 “ 

6.Boolean LogicBLOG 2 “ 

7.4-Stage Sequencer ProgrammerSQP4 5 “ 

POWER SUPPLIES, PACKAGING & PATCH CORDS: 

1.Power Supply (dedicated for 3 panels) PS4An/a $ 

2.Power Supply Distribution System PSDn/a 

3.Rack Mount Chassis (4.5” deep) ROX19 ” 3 pcs. 

4.Pomona Patch Cords (10 pcs. – short) POMn/a 4 sets

Our UK client has kept the Serge in his home studio since purchase, and admitted themselves that it has had very little uses since it was purchased, so here’s a fantastic opportunity to get a professionally build system now, without all the wait and import hassles, and any VAT added for UK buyers.

Cosmetic Appraisal:

As you can see from the pictures, the 3-panel system is in ‘as-new condition and comes fully enclosed in a custom Gator flight case.  There’s not much to add here as it’s all in beautiful condition.

Also included in the sale is a substantial collection of used and brand-new (unopened) banana-jacks, un-racked multiples modules and the power supply, which has all the correct power-distribution board/connectors to run the individual panels.  

This Serge Modular operates on EU 220 via the external power supply (pictured below). The Serge is sold with a 3-month warranty. 

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

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

Packing & Shipping: 

We can ship this instrument worldwide, although the packing & shipping cost is not included in the sale price below, and is subject to quotation.  There may be some short delays in getting materials produced for shipping, although courier companies all seem to be operating normally.  Although the Serge is contained within its own Gator flight case, this would not be sufficient protection for shipping it in, so additional packaging will be required for exporting it, subject to quotation.

We are happy to discuss your particular requirements so please email us if you have any questions on the logistics.

Sales Price: £9,900 GBP – There is no VAT applicable for UK buyers for this sale.

Availability: This Serge Modular is currently reserved as SOLD.  This listing was updated on Thursday 30th March 2023 @ 08:56 GMT.

Click on the thumbnail for a higher resolution photo of the actual Serge Modular 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 us/you.

Servicing Status:

Full service by KSR has already been carried out in August 2021, so this Korg PS3300 Polyphonic Modular System is ready for sale now.

Remarks: 

What can we say other than…wow!  How rare are these to find, and then to actually find one that’s been fully serviced and available for sale! 

We’re very proud to be able to offer this magnificent instrument to any discerning buyer and it’s just had a full service from our trusted & expert vintage synth restorer & partner, Kent Spong at KSR.

Background Info:

We purchased this PS3300 with the intention of keeping it for our own collection, but other priorities have meant that we are now letting it go.  We purchased it from a very experienced vintage analogue synth collector in Japan and had it imported over to us in the UK in April 2021.

The person we purchased this from in Japan had owned it since 2012, but he did not have any prior history on the PS3300, but it’s safe to assume it had never left Japan since it was manufactured.  The serial number is 780105, so this might suggest a 1978 manufacture date, but we cannot be certain.  The was likely produced for the local Japan market, hence it only operates on 100~117V @75W.  We’ve included a picture of the serial plate below.

Cosmetic & Operational Appraisal:

As you can see from the pictures we have taken, the overall condition is very good, the cabinet particularly so, stunning!  The anodised metal control surfaces are showing some wear/deterioration in places due to age, which is typical with many Korg synths coming out of Japan of this era.  It would be perfectly feasible to have all the control surfaces restored to look as-new, but we think it’s more important to persevere these extremely rare historic instruments in their original condition, but that’s an option we’re happy to discuss with any potential buyer as we can get this kind of specialist work carried out in the UK, subject to quotation.

Also included in the sale is the Korg PS-3001 (Honda) Cable to operate the PS3010 Keyboard Controller.  The original power cable is also included of course, plus a step-down supply.

A Kenton MIDI has already been fitted into the PS3300, and like a few we have seen, the kit has been implemented through the pedal DIN inputs on the front panel.  You will note from the pictures that there are some stickers that show the input to access the MIDI kit function.  We think this is a very sympathetic way to implement MIDI into these rare & valuable systems as it can easily be reversed/removed if 100% originality is preferred, so no legacy of the kit having been installed would be left.  The downside is you can’t access the pedal inputs if you happen to own a Korg PS-3040 Dual Pedal, but as mentioned, the MIDI can be removed without affecting the authenticity of the PS3300 in any way.

This Korg PS3300 operates on US 110V. but can be operated in the UK/EU on 220V via the external step-down power supply which is included in the sale (pictured below) and we can supply a high-quality colour PDF copy of the user manual. The instrument is sold with a 3-month warranty, please see our website for full terms & conditions. 

The service carried out by KSR in August 2021 covered all the normal stability and calibration checks, full function testing and card-edge connector inspections etc.  There was actually very little to do on the PS3300 as it was last professionally overhauled by FiveG, in Harajuku, Japan,  in November 2020.  Here is a summary of the work that carried in in the service they conducted:

Exchanged one card socket

Cleaned all card sockets

All switches cleaned

New signal generator FEET x29

Three new condensers for power supply

162 FEETs replaced across the synth

Constructed 2SK208-carrying adapter cards to replace 2SK30A’s

Replaced 36 tantalum condensers in envelope generators

Replaced 36 generator trimmers

Unit 2 waveform control checked and diode found faulty -> replaced

Unit 3 photo-coupler HTVP873DX3 replaced with NSL33-007

23 card connectors reinforced for long-term durability and integrity 

Total, 60+ hours work.

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

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

Packing & Shipping: 

We can ship this instrument 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 custom-sized materials produced for shipping, although courier companies all seem to be operating normally.  We are happy to discuss your requirements so please email us if you have any questions on the logistics and/or need a quote.

Sales Price: £65,000 GBP.

Availability: This Korg PS3300 is now SOLD – the listing was updated on 18th October 2021.

Click on the thumbnail for a higher resolution photo of the actual Korg PS3300 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.

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

Came into stock: March 2021.

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

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

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

The VCS3 was owned by Hans Zimmer.

Cosmetic Appraisal:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Service & Options:

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

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

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

Note on Demos, and because…Covid:  The VCS3 Mk2 & DK1 is currently based in Surrey (UK) with our tech, Kent at KSR.  Although there are strict Covid-19 restrictions in place throughout the UK at present, Kent has very kindly offered for anyone who would like to see and demo the synth before buying it, to demo it at his premises.  Kent is able to set up the synth in a place that meets distancing rules, that’s safe for him and the customer, so if you want to check the synth out then that option is open to you. 

Alternately (recommended), Kent can produce short video demo’s to show the working condition of the VCS3 Mk2 & DK1, but this is by request only.  If we get a single request to do this then we will, of course, upload that to the KSR YouTube channel and probably just post it here in the listing, but Kent’s a very busy guy (good techs always are) so he’s not had the time to proactively do this for us and/or this EMS.

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

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

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

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

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

Note on pictures, again due to Covid: Click on the thumbnail for a higher resolution photo of the actual VCS3 Mk2 & DK1 for sale.  Due to the Covid-19 restrictions, Kent has offered to photograph the instrument at his premises in Surrey, so these photos come straight from him using the best photo equipment he has available. It’s our workaround for the Covid issues/restrictions and we’re very grateful to Kent for helping us all out…but he’s like that.

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

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

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

Came into stock: March 2021.

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

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

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

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

Cosmetic Appraisal:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sales Price: £12,990 GBP.

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

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

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

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

Came into stock: Available for sale from RL Music as at 11th March 2019.

Servicing Status: This is a brand new instrument.

Remarks: We are offering up for sale, what we believe is the only opportunity to buy the last ‘as factory new’ Moog System 15 reissue left in the world. This Moog has never been touched since it left the factory in Asheville, USA. We never even took off the packing tape on the outer shipping box, so it genuinely qualifies as a mint condition instrument and as it came shipped from Moog.

There is #34 on the shipping box, so that’s possibly the serial/production number, but without opening it up, we wouldn’t know. The Moog System 15 comes included with all the documentation, certificate and cables ex-factory so a little time capsule already.

We purchased this brand new Moog back in 2016, and the intention was to keep it, unboxed, for use in the future, and to add to our Vintage Moog Modular collection. However, due to ongoing investments into the RL Music brand, including a new website we are having built, we now need to raise some cash, so reluctantly we will have to let this beautiful instrument go to another custodian.

There is plenty of information on the internet (and from Moog of course) about this beautifully re-made classic from the original Moog companies 1973 portable Modular line-up, and what a superb job of reproducing this they have done. It’s a hand-built instrument that oozes quality, heft and presence, with a ‘no expense spared’ approach to manufacturing it. We had the opportunity to Broker another System 15 reissue in 2019, and we can attest that this is most certainly not a low-budget clone, and sounds almost indistinguishable from the vintage original…bravo!

The pictures showing the front-panel and inner/retail box are for illustration only and our from our library of another System 15 reissue we sold for a client in December last year, so not the unboxed example we are selling now. The two pictures showing the shipping box and the ‘#34’ are of the actual instrument, or at least the outer-shipping-box with the modular synth inside its retail box, which we took in our storage unit, or Synth Storage Emporium, as we like to call it.

Of the only 150 produced there are no Moog System 15 reissues left in the world for sale from authorised Moog dealers. This sale is a unique opportunity to buy a factory-new machine that’s not had a hand touch it since it left the factory.

Whoever buys this Moog will be offered the opportunity (free of charge) for our synth tech, Kent Spong at KSR, to health-check to operational condition, but this will mean the packaging will need to be opened up to do this. This option is available, but we are not proactively going do anything to the Moog unless with strict instructions, and post-purchase, by the new owner. The Moog will be sold with our standard 3-month warranty.

Price: £12,990 GBP.

Availability: This Moog System 15 reissue is now SOLD, as at 17th April 2020.

Click on the thumbnails for higher resolution photos of the actual Moog System 15 reissue for sale.

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

Came into stock: Available from RL Music from February 2020.

Servicing Status: A health-check has been carried out by KSR but we will have it fully serviced as a priority once the sale has been completed.

Remarks: We are brokering this good condition example for a UK client who has owned it for 20+ years.

With all the variety of Korg MS20 now available, it’s easy to get confused about which is the one to have, but the fact remains that the original 1970s MS20 is still the ‘real deal’ and a much-coveted full-sized semi-modular system with true vintage authenticity.  The pleasure of owning an original/vintage analogue synthesizer can’t be understated just because Korg reissued it (and the other copies out there).  All the MS20 variants have certainly fired up everyone’s imagination though, which has to be a good thing for analogue fans.

Second-hand prices for the genuine 1970s built Korg MS20 have seen a reduction in the last few years, but we are starting to see a strong recovery for the vintage originals, so now is the time to consider buying one for keeps.

This example is an Mk2 variant, so the filter was re-designed around the LM13600 operational transconductance amplifier (OTA) – sounds great too! There have been no modifications to this synth, and as you can see from the pictures, it’s in good all original condition showing only the normal amount of wear you would expect for a for 40-year-old synth

This was imported from its homeland in Japan, so operates on 100~110V.  We can provide a step-down transformer if needed (subject to your requirements & quotation).

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

<em>As with all Brokered Sales, the Korg MS20 will be fully serviced post-sale before it’s sent to its new owner. We do this to ensure that the instrument leaves us in perfect operational condition, and it is backed up by our full warranty to give the new owner complete peace of mind. The servicing is carried out as a priority once the sale has been completed, and although it will delay shipping/delivery by a short time, we know from experience that customers are happy to wait.</em>

Demos are available by appointment only.

This price has been agreed with our client to keep it keen, affordable, so we know this represents excellent value compared to any other dealer supplied MS20 being offered around the world right now.

Price: £1,050 GBP.

Availability: This Korg MS20 is no longer available for sale – updated as of 19th March 2020.

Click on the thumbnails for higher resolution photos of the actual MS20 for sale.

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

Came into stock: Available from RL Music from 2nd December 2019.

Servicing Status: A full health-check by KSR will be carried post-sale.

Remarks: We’re both fascinated and excited to see one of the recently manufactured Moog System 15 reissues come though our Brokering Service, and unlike nearly all our usual opening remarks for vintage synths, this is in nearly new condition because it’s only 2 years old!

There is plenty of information on the internet (and from Moog of course) about this beautifully re-made classic from the original Moog companies 1973 portable Modular line-up, and what a superb job of reproducing this they have done. It’s a hand-built instrument that oozes quality, heft and presence, with a ‘no expense spared’ approach to manufacturing it. This is most certainly not a low-budget/cost clone, and sounds almost indistinguishable from the vintage original…bravo!

Only 150 of these System 15 reissues were produced, and this example is serial #123.

This System 15 was imported into the UK by my client from a Moog authorised US dealer, and was to be their first experience with using a modular synth, so quite a way to start. However, our client just didn’t gel with the format, and literally, after a single afternoons use, packed the Moog back up and put it aside. It’s a shame that this gorgeous machine didn’t resonate (pun intended) with our client, but sometimes that’s just how it goes, so we have been appointed to Broker it.

The System 15 works perfectly, but we will ask KSR to give is a full health-check before shipping/handing it to the new owner, but there are no concerns here about the operation.

Cosmetically, the System 15 is immaculate, as you can see from our own pictures, and the Modular comes with all the original documentation supplied from Moog, including a super hardback bound user-manual and serial number certificate. There is also a selection of 1/4“ jacks of varying lengths, S-Trig and V-Trig cables (pictured below) etc.

This Moog System 15 is currently set to operate on EU 220V, but it can be adjusted to work on any international voltage through the settings switch at the rear of the cabinet (pictured below).

Brokered through RL Music, it is being sold with a full 3-month warranty and can be shipped worldwide, and we can re-utilise the original Moog packaging for this as we have the inner retail-box (pictured below), and the outer export-carton as well, as well as the foam inserts, to protect the synth etc.

Demos are available by appointment only.

The health-check is carried out by KSR as a priority once the sale has been completed, and although it will delay shipping/delivery by a short time, we know from experience that customers are happy to wait.

Price: £10,500 GBP.

Availability: This Moog System 15 reissue is now SOLD, as at 9th December 2019.

Click on the thumbnails for higher resolution photos of the actual Moog System 15 reissue for sale.

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 22nd November 2019

Servicing Status: KSR have already fully serviced this Arp 2600 & 3604-P in November 2019, so they’re ready for sale now.

Remarks: We present the stunning and iconic Arp 2600 semi-modular which contains the sought after (and so-called) pre-lawsuit Moog 4012 style filter. This instrument is at least 45 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 combo has been in the ownership of our client for 30+ years but has been stored for quite a while, so KSR were 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:

Notes on the cosmetic condition:

The control surfaces/panels on the synth & keyboard have been deep cleaned. To retain authenticity, the original tolex was left untouched but deep-cleaned, and actually is in pretty good shape considering this instrument is 45+ years old. The bright-work (nickel-plated components like catches and hinges) were improved using hand polishing techniques but they are predicability showing signs of ageing, with a natural patina, but we actually feel this is part of the charm of an un-cosmetically restored example, and to some owners, an important character to keep original.

Notes on the restoration:

The operational restoration on this 2600 & keyboard has been extensive, and mostly all Arp 2600 systems we see these days need this level of attention. KSR had undertaken a complete ground-up rebuild of the electronics with full test and calibrations and PSU rebuild etc. Each and every slider was split apart, cleaned and rebuilt, every jack cleaned & tested, and a system-wide check of all connectors, and solder joints etc. The keyboard was stripped and completely overhauled, and new neoprene bushes fitted etc. Where possible, all the 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.

The original 3604-P keyboard is certainly useful, and not only is it the historically correct partner for this model of 2600, but also the exact serial number match, so they were paired when manufactured (see serial# picture below). in reality, 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. We can supply a Kenton Pro-200 but is not included in the sales price below, so please ask us for prices.

This is a fantastic opportunity to buy one of the most iconic vintage synths ever made, original cosmetics 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 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, keyboard CV/Gate interconnect & US 3-pin proprietary power-cable. The Arp runs on US 110V (it cannot be converted to run 220V), so we are including in the sale a suitable step-down transformer so you can operate this in the UK/EU. We also supply an Arp 2600 owners manual (PDF).

Price: £7990 GBP.

Availability: This Arp 2600 & 3604-P are now SOLD, as at 14th January 2020.

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

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

Came into stock: Arrived at RL Music on 17th March 2019

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

We are both delighted and honoured to be able to offer the Roland System 700 Block 1 (Main Console) and Block 2 (Keyboard Controller) for sale.

We probably don’t need to make much in terms of introduction here, but with there only believed to be around 40 full System 700 ever made, then you will appreciate this instrument was scarce even when it was in manufactured during the period of 8 years from 1976. Over the years, the systems were broken up, and/or perhaps Roland only supplied partial systems to buyers back in the 1970s, but it’s not uncommon to see partial systems coming up for sale, like the one we are offering here.

As electronic musical instruments go, this is considered by many to be the Holy Grail of synthesizers, and is without any doubt, amongst the very best designed and built analogue modular synthesizers ever made. It’s not for us to sell the virtues of such an outstanding instrument as the worlds most accomplished synthesists have shown the capability of these beautiful creations, so we will just talk here about this particular instrument that’s available for sale.

Provenance

This System 700 has been in our client’s ownership for only a few short years, and they had purchased it from a very respected analogue synth collector in the EU. Any provenance prior to this is unknown, but like most System 700 we see, these Blocks have been extremely well cared for and maintained.

Cosmetic Condition

Upon arrival at RL Music, we checked over the system and found it to be 100% intact with all the controls, ancillary hardware (including all lids), knobs, sliders caps, switches, keys, cable and serial plates etc., all to be present and correct.

The overall condition of the Tolex covering on each Block is excellent, with only 2 scuffs to note, that can be seen in photos below. The anodised control surfaces & screen print on each individual module to be superb, with only minimal wear…remarkable!

Operational Condition

We carried out a full assessment on the Blocks after they arrived here, so can confirm everything is working. The system will benefit from a minor service, which would include a full potentiometer/slider clean and calibration etc., and this will be included in the sales price.

A much higher level of ‘restoration’ can be undertaken, should any new owner decide that this is something they would like, for future proofing, so the best thing is to contact Richard here at RL Music to discuss your needs as a customised support package can be costed, including extended warranty.

Configuration

This is a standard configured Block 1 – Main Console. here is a full configuration breakdown:

Block 1 – Main Console (sn: 730139)
This is the Heart of the System, and it contains all the basic modules necessary for a professional system. It has 3 x VCO, 1 x Low Pass VCF, 1 x LP/BP/HP VCF, 2 x VCA, 2 x LFO, 1 x Dual ADSR Envelope Generators, Noise, Ring Mod, Voltage Processor, S/H, Envelope Follower, Integrator (Lag Processor), 1 x Mixer, 2 X 5 multiples, Headphone Monitor Module, and an Output Module, which includes Stereo VU Meters, a six-position test-tone, Phase Shifter, Spring Reverb, and voltage controlled Panning. Most common module connections (power, cv, gate) are made internally for easier patching.

Block 2 – Keyboard Controller (sn: 780202):
The 61-key two-voice Keyboard with Portamento and Pitch-bend controls.

What does it sound like?
It sounds incredible, and can be huge or beautifully musical and subtle…like any quality modular system, but the System 700 has its own sound and unique character. Kent at KSR actually wrote a short track with the full System 700 we sold recently, just after he had completed the restoration work, so if you click the link below you can listen to the piece on his Soundcloud account:

https://soundcloud.com/ksr80/uphill-700

The System 700 is a professional grade instrument, with a price tag to match back, even in the 1970s. The recent full System 700 we had available, sold for £70K GBP (February 2019). Recent specialist auction prices ( £110K GBP at VEMIA November 2017) show that these have risen very sharply in price. Demand has always been very high for anything System 700 related, either in the Lab Systems or separate Blocks being sold.

We are selling this Block 1 & 2 System 700 with a full 3-month warranty, and we will ship worldwide. A quote for custom packing (by us), shipping & insurance to get it to you will be produced upon request. Delivery by us (in person) is possible for most UK destinations – prices subject to address.

This beautiful synthesizer is currently set to operate on 220V, but it can be set internally to 110V if needed. We are not supplying any 1/4” jack audio cables with the sale, but the owner has printed off the original owners manual (red folder pictured), so that’s supplied with the system. We also have a high-quality version in PDF which we will include in the sale if needed.

This is one serious music machine and words simply can’t describe the power and potential for infinite sound creation possibilities. There is such a lot to say about this legendary and beautiful modular system but we just haven’t enough room here on our website so please call or email us to discuss your requirements.

Price: £40,000. GBP

Availability: This Roland System 700 Block 1 & 2 is now SOLD, as at 23rd March 2019.

Click on the thumbnail for higher resolution photos of the actual System 700 Block 1 & 2 for sale.

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

Came into stock: Arrived at RL Music on 28th November 2018.

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

Remarks: A very rare opportunity to own stunning vintage 
modular system from the Roland 700 lineage – the System 700 Lab.

This is a very powerful 3 oscillator normalised system with 1/4 inch jack In/Out for expanded sound creation possibilities and is based entirely on the system architecture of the full System 700. Unusually, we also have a full Roland System 700 for sale at the moment – so you can see that the Lab is the same size as one of the lower wing cabinets.

This is a standard configuration system, so has not been modified from its original factory specification, and the serial number is 660042. This contains all the basic modules necessary for a professional system. It has 3 x VCO, 1 x VCF, 1 x VCA, 1 x LFO, 2 x ADSR EG, Noise (white & pink), Ring Mod, S/H and a Mixer.


The 700 Lab is in excellent all original condition, with only light wear to the modules surfaces, although there is some oxidisation to the anodising, which we are seeing as normal for these 40+-year-old instruments. The Tolex covering and chromed/nickel-plated parts are all intact and in excellent order, although there are a couple of small indentations on the back of the cabinet along the edges.

We would rate this as a collectors condition example – 9.5 out of 10. KSR has just fully serviced the system so it’s 100% perfect operationally.

This is a 1V/Oct system that can be accessed via any suitable CV/Gate controller or MIDI to CV device. To get the most out of the 700 Lab 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. We can supply a Kenton Pro-200 but is not included in the sales price below, so please ask us for prices.

This System 700 Lab is sold with our normal 3-month warranty and runs on EU 220V. There was no user documentation supplied by the owner, but we will supply a copy of the System 700 Synthesizer Instruction Manual in PDF format.

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

Price: £18,600 GBP.

Availability: This System 700 Lab is not currently available.

Pictures of the actual synth below.

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

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

Came into stock: Arrived at RL Music in April 2018

Restoration Status: Kent Spong of KSR completed the full 6-week restoration on 22nd June 2018, so the system now resides with RL Music in Reading, UK.

We probably don’t need to make much in terms of introduction here, but with there only believed to be 40 System 700 ever made, then you will appreciate this instrument was scarce even when it was in manufactured during the period of 8 years from 1976.

As electronic musical instruments go, this is considered by many to be the Holy Grail of synthesizers, and is without any doubt, amongst the very best designed and built analogue modular synthesizers ever made. It’s not for us to sell the virtues of such an outstanding instrument as the worlds most accomplished synthesists have shown the capability of these beautiful creations, so we will just talk here about this particular instrument that’s available for sale.

Provenance

This System 700 has very recently (March 2018) been purchased from its original owner in Japan. The owner purchased it new from Roland and had it kept in their home all that time, and although they could not recall the exact date it was bought, it was certainly around 40 years ago. The incredible instrument has been imported directly into the EU from Japan and is now being offered by RL Music for sale.

Cosmetic Condition

Upon arrival at RL Music, we checked over the system and found it to be 100% intact with all the controls, ancillary hardware (including all lids), knobs, sliders caps, switches, keys, cables and serial plates etc., all to be present and correct.

The condition of the Tolex covering on each and every Block is excellent, and the anodised control surfaces & screen print on each individual module to be superb, with only minimal wear…remarkable! Kent carried out some light restorative re-finishing to the Tolex to bring back its depth-of-colour and lustre. There is a ‘Roland” badge missing off the Block 4 lid, but all others are present on the other lids.

There is a small scuff on the sequencer panel, and some of the anodising on certain modules has oxidised due to age, but otherwise, this is a close to perfection as is possible, and the dream of most of us to own. KSR stripped each panel and deep-cleaned the anodised surfaces (very carefully).

Operational Condition

Kent carried out a 6-week complete overhaul of the system, so every jack-socket, sliders, block-connector, DIN-socket, interconnect cables and switches have been deep cleaned & lubricated. The twin VU meters were replaced with NOS Roland meters as the originals were no longer working.

Each and every Module was removed, tested, deep-cleaned and fully calibrated. A number of the power-regulation capacitors were replaced due to the originals having failed due to age. The PSU has been fully refurbished.

The Keyboard was stripped and fully overhauled.

Every single function and detail of the modular system has been methodically & fastidiously addressed, and after investing over £15K GBP in restoration costs, it now works flawlessly and looks stunning!

Configuration

This is a slightly non-standard configured system, and a manufactured later in the production run of these professional studio systems, from what we could ascertain, so here is a full configuration breakdown:

Block 1-Main Console (sn: 590069)
This is the Heart of the System, and it contains all the basic modules necessary for a professional system. It has 3 x VCO, 1 x Low Pass VCF, 1 x LP/BP/HP VCF, 2 x VCA, 2 x LFO, 1 x Dual ADSR Envelope Generators, Noise, Ring Mod, Voltage Processor, S/H, Envelope Follower, Integrator (Lag Processor), 1 x Mixer, 2 X 5 multiples, Headphone Monitor Module, and an Output Module, which includes Stereo VU Meters, a six-position test-tone, Phase Shifter, Spring Reverb, and voltage controlled Panning. Most common module connections (power, cv, gate) are made internally for easier patching.

Block 2 – Keyboard Controller (sn: 630116):
The 61-key two-voice Keyboard with Portamento and Pitch-bend controls.

Block 3 – Sequencer (sn: 800097):
This offers 3 x 12 step sequencer with Pulse Shaper, Clock Oscillator, and Series / Parallel output sections – considered one of the best analogue sequencers ever made.

Block 4 – VCO Bank (sn: 800002):
6 x VCO, 1 x Dual ADSR Envelope Generator, 2 x LFO, Sample and Hold and 1 x Mixer.

Block 5 – VCF/VCA Bank (sn: 800003):
1 x Low Pass VCF, 1 x LP/BP/HP VCF, 2 x VCA, Noise Generator, Ring Modulator, 1 x Dual ADSR Envelope Generator, 2 x Mixers and 2 x Gate Delay.

Block 6 – Interface/Mixer (sn: 780089):
1 x Frequency-to-Voltage Converter (with VDU) Interface with Envelope Follower & Gate Signal Generator, a VCA, 9-channel Audio Mixer, and a Multimode Filter.

Block 7 – Phase Shifter/Audio Delay (sn: 800001):
A 2-channel Phase Shifter and a 2-channel Audio Delay, Amplifier, Envelope Follower, Integrator (Lag Processor), 2 x Mixers and a Sample & Hold.

What does it sound like?
It sounds incredible and can be huge or beautifully musical and subtle…like any quality modular system, but the System 700 has its own sound and unique character. Kent at KSR actually wrote a short track with the System 700 just after he had completed the restoration work, so if you click the link below you can listen to the piece on his Soundcloud account:

https://soundcloud.com/ksr80/uphill-700

The System 700 is a professional grade instrument, with a price tag to match back in the late 1970s, and recent specialist auction prices ( £110K GBP at VEMIA November 2017) show that these have risen very sharply in price. Demand has always been very high for anything System 700 related, either in the Lab Systems or separate Blocks being sold, but finding a full system is exceptionally rare.

Now the System 700 has been meticulously restored, we are selling it with a full 6-month warranty, and we will ship worldwide. A quote for custom packing (by us), shipping & insurance to get it to you will be produced upon request. Delivery by us (in person) is possible for most UK destinations – prices subject to address.

This beautiful behemoth of a synthesizer runs on 110V. We are not supplying any 1/4” jack audio cables with the sale, and unfortunately, the original owners manual was not supplied to us, but we do have a high-quality version in PDF which we will include in the sale.

This is one serious music machine and words simply can’t describe the power and potential for infinite sound creation possibilities. There is such a lot to say about this legendary and beautiful modular system but we just haven’t enough room here on our website so please call or email us to discuss your requirements.

Price: £70,000 GBP

Availability: This Roland System 700 is now SOLD on deposit, as at 15th february 2019.

Click on the thumbnail for higher resolution photos of the actual (post-restoration) System 700 for sale.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Demos are available by appointment only.

Sales Price: £11,500 GBP.

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

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

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

Came into stock:  3rd March 2017.

Restoration Status: KSR to service once sold, and prior to shipping to the new owner. This PS3200 is in perfect working condition, but the servicing work is standard on all our vintage synths for sale, although it is more akin to a ‘health-check’ on an instrument of this fine condition.

Remarks: We are delighted to present a very rare opportunity to own a true vintage classic – the Korg PS3200. Our client has not owned the Korg for more than a few years, but it has been well cared for in their own home studio during their ownership. Prior to this, the Korg was owned by UK synth collector. The cosmetic condition of the control panels & original wood-veneer cabinets for both the synth & the PS-3010 48-key Polyphonic Keyboard Controller are very good, with only minimal wear for an instrument of this age, and operationally it’s perfectly working. The PS3200 has clearly been very well looked after throughout its 40-year life, and likely regularly serviced as well, although we will carry out a further service on the synth for the new owner.

A couple of items of note:
There is a non-original knob on the PS-3010 Keyboard. The original Korg potentiometer is intact, so we can only assume at some time in the past, the large Korg control knob has been lost and replaced with the one you can see in the pictures below. Also, the battery cover at the rear of the synth is missing. Not huge problems in the scheme of things, but we’re just noting these for full disclosure.

The PS3200 is a fully polyphonic, 16 memory semi-modular system incorporating divide-down technology driving 2 VCO’s and micro tuning ability. The technical specification aside, this instrument defines the word “ambient” and has the most wonderful warm, rich and characterful sound that any vintage polysynth can deliver….a truly unique machine.

The semi-modular nature of the PS3200 provides some fascinating routing options for “polyphonic” sound design, and the remote keyboard offers a number of performance features within the CV/Gate domain.

This PS3200 operates on US 110V, but comes with an EU 220V converter – it will be sold with a 3-month warranty. Included with the sale is the original PS-3001 60-pin locking connection cable, and of course the proprietary power-cable. We will also include a PDF copy of the user manual.

Sales Price: £10900 GBP.

Availability: This PS3200 is no longer available for sale (updated 6th March 2019).

Click on the thumbnail for higher resolution photo of the actual PS3200 for sale.