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Description

The EMS Synthi 100 is a legendary piece of musical history, revered for its unique and powerful sound-shaping capabilities. Originally introduced in the 1970s, this modular synthesizer has been a staple in electronic music production and continues to be a sought-after instrument for both vintage enthusiasts and modern sound designers. The Synthi 100 is celebrated for its sprawling 12 oscillator architecture, offering immense flexibility and depth for creating intricate soundscapes. Whether you're delving into experimental music or crafting the next electronic hit, this synthesizer provides a rich palette of options.

This iconic instrument includes a distinctive patchboard matrix, allowing for extensive modulation possibilities without the need for traditional patch cables. The Synthi 100 also features a built-in sequencer, enabling complex, evolving patterns that can transform any composition. Its design fosters spontaneity and encourages exploration, making it a perfect tool for musicians who thrive on creativity and innovation.

The EMS Synthi 100 is not just a synthesizer; it's an experience that brings the warmth and character of analog synthesis to the forefront. Its robust build and timeless design continue to inspire musicians around the world, inviting you to discover new sonic territories.

Key Features:

  • 12 oscillator architecture for complex sound creation
  • Patchboard matrix for versatile modulation routing
  • Built-in sequencer for intricate pattern generation
  • Vintage analog sound with modern reliability
  • Ideal for experimental and electronic music production
  • Revered in the music community for its iconic status and unique sound capabilities
The University of Melbourne

The University of Melbourne

Synthi 100

Video thumbnail for Synthi 100 by The University of Melbourne

Synthi 100

The University of Melbourne

The University of Melbourne

Video thumbnail for Synthi 100: Live in concert by Faculty of Fine Arts and Music

Synthi 100: Live in concert

Faculty of Fine Arts and Music

Faculty of Fine Arts and Music

Video thumbnail for EMS Synthi 100 - Movement 6 ε (Official Audio) by DEEWEE

EMS Synthi 100 - Movement 6 ε (Official Audio)

DEEWEE

DEEWEE

Video thumbnail for EMS Synthi-100 at Radio Belgrade 2018 - the "Emperor of Synths" by Chris Mick Studentsmusic

EMS Synthi-100 at Radio Belgrade 2018 - the "Emperor of Synths"

Chris Mick Studentsmusic

Chris Mick Studentsmusic

Video thumbnail for Phased Out (1975) EMS Synthi-100 film by Memetune Studio

Phased Out (1975) EMS Synthi-100 film

Memetune Studio

Memetune Studio

Video thumbnail for Kingdom of Bells - Egil Kalman plays the synthi 100 - Cloudless Daybreak by Egil Kalman

Kingdom of Bells - Egil Kalman plays the synthi 100 - Cloudless Daybreak

Egil Kalman

Egil Kalman

Video thumbnail for EMS Synthi 100 by r8448

EMS Synthi 100

r8448

r8448

Video thumbnail for EMS Synthi-100: extremely rare 70s  vintage modular  in action by Chris Mick Studentsmusic

EMS Synthi-100: extremely rare 70s vintage modular in action

Chris Mick Studentsmusic

Chris Mick Studentsmusic

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about EMS Synthi 100.

Features and functionality

  • The Synthi 100 is semi-modular, offering extensive oscillators and audio processing effects, making it suitable as a complete music creation workstation.

    Source
  • The EMS Synthi 100 includes built-in Nixie tubes, specifically two displays with a total of ten tubes for frequency counter and sequencer readouts.

    Source
  • The Synthi 100 MKII variant included diode ladder filters and a large memory dial, showcasing its evolution over initial models.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • It excels in creating sound effects, with notable applications in Chemical Brothers' tracks, renowned for its massive filter sweeps and reverb.

    Source
  • The Synthi 100 was used by notable artists like Aphex Twin and Jack Dangers, demonstrating its appeal to high-profile electronic musicians.

    Source
  • Sarah Davachi utilized the Synthi 100 on her album "Vergers," indicating its ongoing relevance in contemporary electronic music production.

    Source

User experience

  • A former Cardiff University unit had the frequency counter removed, highlighting potential variations in Synthi 100s' configurations.

    Source
  • Owners note the Synthi 100's rarity, with only around 31 units ever made, and emphasize the importance of verifying functionality and provenance due to its collectible status.

    Source

Critic Reviews

EMS Synthi 100 review on thevinylfactory.com

thevinylfactory.com

Soulwax and the hunt for the EMS Synthi 100

engadget.com

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Midori Hirano uses EMS Synthi 100

Midori Hirano

Singer, Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

"Midori Hirano talking to the "Heroines of Sound" festival about her residency at Radio Belgrade, where she was able to make music for the 2021 festival using the station's Electronic Music Studio, which features an EMS Synthi 100."

See how Roger Limb uses EMS Synthi 100

Roger Limb

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified

Roger Limb began to show case the EMS Synth 1000 in this video through the White Files archive for the BBC Radiophonic Workshop.

See how Dudley Simpson uses EMS Synthi 100

Dudley Simpson

Composer

...
Verified via Photo

Dudley Simpson is confirmed to have used the EMS Synthi 100, also known as "Delaware," during the Jon Pertwee era stories. This was verified by Mark Ayres, who confirmed the specific synths Simpson employed.

As he quoted "EMS VCS3, and later the massive Synthi-100 "Delaware"."

Album Usage

The EMS Synthi 100 has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use EMS Synthi 100, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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