EMS Synthi A

$20,234.25 Price Tier: High-end

5.0 (7)

1 Critic Review

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

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Page last updated Jul 05, 2026

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5.0 (1)

$20,234.25 4 available Used

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Average Price: $20,234

High-end/Boutique

$500

$1501+

Price Tier

In the Synthesizers category, EMS Synthi A 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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High-end

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Description

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Step into the world of iconic sound with the EMS Synthi A, a synthesizer revered for its compact design and inventive patch matrix. Originally crafted in the 1970s, this synthesizer offers a unique blend of vintage charm and cutting-edge sonic possibilities. Its portable nature makes it ideal for musicians on the move or those with limited studio space, without compromising on its rich, analog sound.

The Synthi A is noted for its distinctive programming interface, which utilizes a pin matrix patching method instead of traditional cables. This allows for a vast range of sound-shaping possibilities, making it a favorite among experimental musicians and sound designers. Its three oscillators, noise generator, filter, and envelope shaper provide a wealth of creative resources for crafting anything from lush pads to aggressive leads.

For those who appreciate tactile control, the Synthi A features a joystick for real-time modulation, offering an intuitive and expressive way to manipulate sound. Whether you're delving into the realms of ambient soundscapes or creating punchy bass lines, the EMS Synthi A stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of analog synthesis.

Key Features:

Unique pin matrix patching system for extensive sound design
Three oscillators for a wide range of tones
Noise generator, filter, and envelope shaper included
Built-in joystick for hands-on modulation
Compact and portable, perfect for mobile musicians
Renowned for its rich, analog sound quality

Product specs

Brand	EMS
Model	Synthi A
Finish	White
Year	1970s
Categories	Analog Synths, Desktop Synths
Analog / Digital	Analog
Polyphony	1 Voice

FAQs

What is the patching system used in the EMS Synthi A?: The EMS Synthi A utilizes a patch matrix with resistive pins instead of traditional patch cables, allowing for a compact design and unique sound routing possibilities.
Is the EMS Synthi A suitable for live performances?: The EMS Synthi A, housed in a portable Spartanite briefcase, is designed for both studio use and live performances, offering flexibility and ease of transport for musicians.
How many oscillators does the EMS Synthi A have?: The EMS Synthi A features three voltage-controlled oscillators (VCOs), which are central to its sound generation capabilities.
Can the EMS Synthi A be used for polyphonic synthesis?: The EMS Synthi A is a monophonic synthesizer, meaning it can produce one note at a time, which is typical for many classic analog synths.
What types of sounds is the EMS Synthi A known for?: The EMS Synthi A is renowned for its rich, analog textures and experimental soundscapes, making it a favorite among electronic music producers and sound designers.

Videos

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Synthasy2000

Klaus Schulze talks about, and demonstrates, his first synth an EMS Synthi A

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Exploration Of The EMS Synthi A

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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 EMS Synthi A.

Features and functionality

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The Synthi A's patch matrix shares points between keyboard pitch control and external audio inputs, allowing simultaneous control over oscillators.
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Setup and maintenance

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Spring reverb is included, but its functionality can be compromised on older units needing servicing.
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Building a Synthi A clone requires significant skill in electronics, especially in wiring the pin matrix.
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Mods and upgrades

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Different colored pegs in the patch bay have varying resistances; modern red, white, and yellow pins are 2k7 1%, while green pins are 68k.
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Software and compatibility

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The Synthi uses unique CV standards: 0.32 V/Oct for Oscs 1 and 2, and 0.20 V/Oct for Osc 3, complicating external sequencing.
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User experience

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Owners note that toms work best for triggering oscillators due to their pitched content, especially effective for techno and gabber-style percussion.
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Build quality

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The Cloney Project suggests replacing the original 16x16 pin matrix with a more accessible 20x20 version.
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Other

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The Fairchild uA726 is a hard-to-find component that may need substitution in DIY builds.
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Critic Reviews

Electronic Music Studios (EMS) Synthi A | Vintage Synth Explorer

vintagesynth.com

The EMS Synthi A, hailed for its portability and iconic sci-fi sound generation, remains a remarkable piece of electronic music history. With its unique patchbay grid system and stable oscillators after warm-up, it offers a distinctive analog experience. However, potential buyers should be cautious of the AKS model's precarious case mounting—a common issue to inspect in used units. Overall, the Synthi A stands out as a sophisticated yet compact synth, celebrated for its rich sonic capabilities.

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