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Description

Step back in time with the Dubreq Stylophone (original 1968), a truly iconic piece of musical history that holds a special place in the hearts of musicians and collectors alike. First introduced in 1968, this tabletop synthesizer became famous for its unique sound and compact design, making it a must-have for budding musicians and seasoned artists alike. The original Stylophone offers a distinct sound palette, characterized by its monophonic tone, which has been featured in countless recordings over the decades.

The Stylophone is played using a stylus, which interacts with a metal keyboard to produce its signature analog sound. Thanks to its simple interface, it is incredibly easy to play, allowing musicians of all levels to enjoy creating music without a steep learning curve. Whether you're looking to add a vintage vibe to your compositions or simply want to explore new musical landscapes, this classic instrument offers endless possibilities.

Perfect for both solo performances and collaborative sessions, the Dubreq Stylophone is a versatile addition to any music setup. Its portability ensures you can take it anywhere, making it a favorite among DJs and electronic music producers who appreciate its unique character. With its enduring charm and retro appeal, the Stylophone remains a beloved piece of musical equipment.

Key Features:

  • Original design from 1968, known for its distinctive analog sound
  • Played using a stylus on a metal keyboard
  • Monophonic tone ideal for creating vintage sounds
  • Compact and portable, perfect for on-the-go music production
  • Simple interface suitable for musicians of all skill levels
AnalogAudio1

AnalogAudio1

DUBREQ STYLOPHONE Original 1968 - played with effects | HQ DEMO

Video thumbnail for DUBREQ STYLOPHONE Original 1968 - played with effects | HQ DEMO by AnalogAudio1

DUBREQ STYLOPHONE Original 1968 - played with effects | HQ DEMO

AnalogAudio1

AnalogAudio1

Video thumbnail for 1968 Stylophone Demonstration and fine tuning by Vintage Keys Studio

1968 Stylophone Demonstration and fine tuning

Vintage Keys Studio

Vintage Keys Studio

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Dubreq Stylophone (original 1968).

Comparisons

  • The Dubreq Stylophone Gen X-1's feature set is preferred over the Monotron Delay, particularly for those seeking more knob-based control.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The original Stylophone lacked sufficient knobs for extensive sound manipulation, a shortcoming addressed in the Gen X-1 model.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The Gen X-1 shines in creating grungy, wonky tones, making it suitable for experimental soundscapes and live jams with drummers.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners of the original Stylophone found initial excitement waned due to limited controls, making the Gen X-1 a notable upgrade for sustained interest.

    Source
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4.5 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 9 Ratings

5 star
4 star
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1 star
stephen_rainsbury

Cheap, fun and often overlooked sound source.

Out of the box this appears to be very limited, short keyboard, no envelope control and only one sound modification option, however that already makes it more flexible than many orchestral instruments, and they seem to manage. For me they really come alive when you start adding effects pedals, and then the imperfections in the sound can turn it into a snarling, sweating beast from beyond. My favourite options are the Digitech RP55 or a Behringer BSY Bass synthesizer and Nux Time Core, you would be hard pushed to recognise the sound source, but you know its dirty and by heck its fun.

spleentaste

the sound of the 60's

WTF ??? they made a replica of this crazy mini synth....the sound is like going back 50 years in the past...

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Jack White uses Dubreq Stylophone (original 1968)

Jack White

Singer, Guitarist

The Raconteurs

...
Verified via Dubreq

"Detroit’s famous duo features Stylophone sounds throughout the song 'Icky Thump,' the title track of their 2007 album. The track showcases the Stylophone with a wild and dissonant solo. Always a fan of retro musical instruments, Jack White is also credited for playing the Stylophone on the album Consolers of The Lonely by the Raconteurs."

See how John Lennon uses Dubreq Stylophone (original 1968)

John Lennon

Singer, Guitarist

The Beatles

...
Verified via YouTube

"On January 28, 1969, while The Beatles were rehearsing Old Brown Shoe, John Lennon brought out a Stylophone. Here's the result."

See how David Bowie uses Dubreq Stylophone (original 1968)

David Bowie

Singer, Guitarist

David Bowie (band)

...
Verified via Photo

In this old print advertisement, we see Bowie playing (and lending his endorsement to) the Stylophone.

See how Damon Albarn uses Dubreq Stylophone (original 1968)

Damon Albarn

Singer, Guitarist

Gorillaz

...
Verified via Uncut

If the first two Gorillaz albums set the bar high for star guests – Ike Turner, Dennis Hopper, Shaun Ryder, Ibrahim Ferrer and so on – it’s no surprise that Plastic Beach comes loaded with more celebrities than a Royal Command Variety Performance.

And, like a Variety Performance, your expectations rise in the presence of the great and the good. Wow – that’s Lou Reed on ”Some Kind Of Nature”! And he’s singing what sounds like a track from Transformer! As played on Fisher- Price toys! And wow again – that’s Mick Jones on the title track! With Paul Simonon playing the bassline from “Guns Of Brixton”! With Damon dicking about on a Stylophone!"

See how Kraftwerk uses Dubreq Stylophone (original 1968)

Kraftwerk

Composer, Music Producer

Kraftwerk

...
Verified via YouTube

can be seen at 10:36

See how Orbital uses Dubreq Stylophone (original 1968)

Orbital

Music Producer

Orbital & Angelo Badalamenti

...
Verified via Stylophone

The Stylophone's unique sound has featured on numerous hit records. How many single instruments, manufactured by one company, can claim a list of artists that have played it that includes David Bowie, Queen, The Osmonds, The Raconteurs, Rick Wakeman, Vangelis, Kraftwork, Moloko, Orbital, Marilyn Manson, Gotye, The Beatles, Pulp, The Kaiser Chiefs and hundreds more.

See how Rick Wakeman uses Dubreq Stylophone (original 1968)

Rick Wakeman

Keyboardist

Black Sabbath

...
Verified via Dubreq

The Stylophone's unique sound has featured on numerous hit records. How many single instruments, manufactured by one company, can claim a list of artists that have played it that includes David Bowie, Queen, The Osmonds, The Raconteurs, Rick Wakeman, Vangelis, Kraftwork, Moloko, Orbital, Marilyn Manson, Gotye, The Beatles, Pulp, The Kaiser Chiefs and hundreds more.

See how Stuart Pot (2D) uses Dubreq Stylophone (original 1968)

Stuart Pot (2D)

Singer, Keyboardist

Gorillaz

...
Verified via YouTube

"Interviewer: So guys, how did you both begin playing music and what was your first musical instrument?

2D: For me it was keyboards. Any keyboards really, like. My dad, right, he used to find stuff in junk shops and he even customized them for me. I had a Casio VL Tone which I used to take, everywhere with me. It looks a bit like a melodica, uh, which was another instrument I loved. Still do. But, you know, keyboards was the thing that I loved. Stylophones, Moogs, synths, electronic stuff, anything that makes a ‘bloopy’ noise. Uh, I was a bit like Brian Eno."

See how Karl Bartos uses Dubreq Stylophone (original 1968)

Karl Bartos

Keyboardist, Composer

Kraftwerk

...
Verified via Photo

karl can be seen playing a stylophone in this picture

See how emma essex uses Dubreq Stylophone (original 1968)

emma essex

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via Bandcamp

Emma Essex is confirmed to use the Dubreq Stylophone (original 1968), as detailed in the listing of equipment for the "ssri_sessions" album on Bandcamp by HALLEY LABS.

See how Cask J. Thomson uses Dubreq Stylophone (original 1968)

Cask J. Thomson

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via Facebook

In a Facebook post, Cask J. Thomson is shown with the original 1968 Dubreq Stylophone, referencing its association with Rolf Harris.

See how Neil Arthur uses Dubreq Stylophone (original 1968)

Neil Arthur

Singer, Keyboardist

Blancmange

...
Verified via kitmonsters.com

The Dubrq Stylophone is pictured and discussed in this interview with Neil.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Dubreq Stylophone (original 1968), it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Arkaos Grand VJ
Arkaos Grand VJ Video Editing Software
1
Ableton Live
Ableton Live DAW Software
1
Fender Stratocaster Electric Guitar
Fender Stratocaster Electric Guitar Solid Body Electric Guitars
1
Fender Telecaster
Fender Telecaster Solid Body Electric Guitars
1
Tech 21 SansAmp Classic
Tech 21 SansAmp Classic Distortion Effects Pedals
1
Roland MKS-80 Super Jupiter
Roland MKS-80 Super Jupiter Synthesizers & Sound Modules
1
EDP Wasp
EDP Wasp Synthesizers
1
MXR M103 Blue Box
MXR M103 Blue Box Fuzz Effects Pedals
1
Roland Space Echo RE-101
Roland Space Echo RE-101 Effects Processors
1
Korg nanoKEY2 USB Keyboard Controller
Korg nanoKEY2 USB Keyboard Controller MIDI Keyboard Controllers
1

Community setups

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rothhandlestudios

rothhandlestudios

Gear IQ 1963

2 alternative and related items for Dubreq Stylophone (original 1968), curated by the Equipboard community.

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Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    jamalball
    jamalball

    Gear IQ 201