Crumar Bit One

$2,000.00 Price Tier: High-end

3.5 (2)

2 Critic Reviews

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Page last updated May 17, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated May 17, 2026.

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5.0 (2)

$2,000.00 3 available Used

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Average Price: $2,000

High-end/Boutique

$500

$1501+

Price Tier

In the Synthesizers category, Crumar Bit One is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

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Standard

High-end

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Description

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Step into the world of vintage analog synthesis with the Crumar Bit One, a classic synthesizer that has captured the hearts of musicians since its release in the mid-1980s. Known for its 6-voice polyphony, this synthesizer offers a rich, warm analog sound that is both lush and dynamic. The Bit One is equipped with a robust array of features that allow for deep sound design, making it a favorite among both seasoned synthesists and new enthusiasts looking to explore the intricacies of analog synthesis.

This synthesizer is all about hands-on control and creativity, sporting a range of onboard controls that allow for real-time manipulation of sound parameters. With its dual oscillators per voice and versatile modulation options, the Bit One can produce everything from thick, evolving pads to sharp, cutting leads. It also integrates well with modern setups thanks to its MIDI capabilities, bringing a touch of vintage charm to contemporary compositions.

Key Features:

6-voice polyphonic analog synthesizer
Dual oscillators per voice for rich sound creation
Comprehensive modulation options for dynamic sound shaping
MIDI compatible for seamless integration with modern equipment
Classic design with hands-on controls for real-time sound manipulation

Product specs

Brand	Crumar
Model	Bit One
Finish	Black
Year	1985
Categories	Analog Synths, Keyboard Synths
Analog / Digital	Analog
Key Size	Full Size
Keyboard Action	Synth Action
MIDI I/O	MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through
Number of Keys	61 Keys
Polyphony	6 Voices

FAQs

Is the Crumar Bit One synthesizer polyphonic or monophonic?: The Crumar Bit One is a polyphonic synthesizer, offering 6 voices of polyphony, which allows you to play multiple notes simultaneously for richer, layered sounds.
What type of MIDI connectivity does the Crumar Bit One offer?: The Crumar Bit One features comprehensive MIDI connectivity, including MIDI Input, MIDI Output, and MIDI Through, enabling integration with other MIDI-compatible devices and setups.
What is the keyboard action type of the Crumar Bit One?: The Crumar Bit One has a synth action keyboard, providing a smooth and responsive playing experience suitable for synthesizer performance.
How many keys does the Crumar Bit One have?: The Crumar Bit One is equipped with 61 full-size keys, offering a wide range for expressive playing and complex compositions.
What is the sound generation method of the Crumar Bit One?: The Crumar Bit One uses analog synthesis, known for its warm and rich sound characteristics, making it a popular choice for classic synth tones.

Videos

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Synth Cloud

CRUMAR BIT ONE ANALOG SYNTH

Synth Cloud

Crumar BitOne

No Nag

Crumar Bit One: 15 great sounds (Rare SSM rev.)

Valmont

Com Truise: The Crumar Bit One in 'Ultrafiche of You'

Soundfly

Crumar Bit One MIDI Upgrade demo

Harry Axten

Reviews

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Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Crumar Bit One.

Setup and maintenance

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A step-up transformer is needed to convert US voltage (110-120v) to the European standard (220-240v) for the Bit One to function properly.
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Allowing the Bit One to warm up for 15-20 minutes can resolve tuning issues, as noted by an owner experiencing pitch inconsistencies after transportation.
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Identifying out-of-tune voices may require playing notes with long sustain to determine which voice is detuned, though voice assignment can complicate this process.
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High post-rectification voltages (13V, 20V) noted; may not cause crackling but could indicate transformer issues needing attention.
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Mods and upgrades

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Modding the Crumar Bit One to use US voltage internally involves replacing the transformer with one providing slightly more than 12V and 5V.
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The Tauntek website provides a detailed tuning guide and suggests considering a ROM update for the Crumar Bit One, potentially resolving tuning discrepancies.
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Replacing the transformer requires finding one with two secondaries, one having a center tap, though specifics are hard to match with modern replacements.
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Features and functionality

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The Bit One's power supply unit expects two output taps from the transformer: 12V and 5V, which are regulated to +5V and a -12V, +12V pair.
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The front "pitch" adjustment is global and cannot correct individual voice tuning issues; internal trimmers or ROM updates might be necessary for precise tuning.
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User experience

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Owners should ensure the wattage of any step-up transformer exceeds the wattage specified on the Crumar Bit One's nameplate for safe operation.
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Crackling issues could stem from PCB heat-related solder joint problems or leaky capacitors, not necessarily the power supply.
Source

Critic Reviews

Crumar Bit One, Bit 01, Bit 99

soundonsound.com

The Crumar Bit One, while innovative for its time with features like dual oscillators and velocity sensitivity, struggled with major limitations such as poor MIDI capabilities and awkward controls. Its sound was praised for its warmth and versatility, yet it was overshadowed by the FM synthesis trend of the 1980s. Despite its potential, the Bit One's lack of user-friendly interface and the timing of its release led to its relatively quick fade from the market. For vintage enthusiasts, it offers a unique sound, but its practical shortcomings make it a challenging choice for modern use.

neutral

Full Review

Crumar BIT ONE, BIT 99, BIT 01: Little gems of expressivity - GreatSynthesizers

greatsynthesizers.com

While the Crumar Bit One, Bit 99, and Bit 01 may not have the legendary status of their contemporaries, these synthesizers stand out for their expressive capabilities and unique sound profiles. Despite a lackluster physical design and some usability drawbacks, their dynamic expressivity and distinctive tones make them valuable tools for musicians seeking affordable vintage analog synthesizers. The BIT series' technical reliability and low service requirements further enhance their appeal. Although they lack advanced features like Osc-Sync and Ring-Mod, the Crumar BITs deliver unparalleled musical results when programmed with care, offering stunning lead lines and synth sequences that are a testament to their enduring quality.

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3.5 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 2 Ratings

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Artist usage

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Com Truise

Music Producer

Verified via MusicRadar

I've been trying to hone it down and I've been focusing on the Akai AX80, and I bought a [Roland] Juno-106 a while back, and I also have a [Moog] Slim Phatty. I have the Dave Smith Prophet '08, but my favourite is the Crumar Bit One.

Graham Massey

Guitarist, Keyboardist

808 State

Verified via 808state

A Korg DVP- 1 voice processor is used for "really cheesy 10cc-type vocal sounds", and the Roland JX8P is another favourite.

"There's a whacking bass on that. You have to doctor the pre-set, but it's got a gorgeous sound to it. It sounds very analoguey for a digital synth. It's got a warmth to it. The only other digital stuff we've got is a Bit One and a Bit 99, these weird Italian keyboards that Chase used to bring in, which are great for hard, digital sounds."