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Pricing and availability

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Description

Experience the fusion of vintage charm and modern innovation with the Ken Freeman String Machine. This synthesizer is a homage to the classic string synthesizers that defined an era, while incorporating cutting-edge digital technology to meet today's musical demands. Designed for both enthusiasts of retro sounds and forward-thinking musicians, its rich, analog warmth is matched by its versatility in a studio or live performance setup.

The Ken Freeman String Machine is not just a synthesizer; it's a time capsule that transports you to the lush soundscapes of the past with ease. Its intuitive interface allows musicians to effortlessly sculpt sounds, from ethereal strings to mesmerizing pads. With its 61-key semi-weighted keyboard, you'll find playing expressive and responsive, whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting your musical journey.

Seamlessly integrate the Ken Freeman String Machine into your existing setup with its comprehensive MIDI capabilities. It offers a variety of connectivity options to ensure it fits right into your workflow. The sturdy construction promises durability, making it a reliable choice for performers on the go.

Whether you're exploring new sonic territories or reviving classic tones, the Ken Freeman String Machine is your ideal partner in sound creation.

Key Features:

  • 61-key semi-weighted keyboard for expressive playing
  • Classic string synthesizer sounds with modern digital enhancements
  • Intuitive interface for easy sound sculpting
  • Comprehensive MIDI capabilities for seamless integration
  • Durable construction suitable for studio and live performances
  • Variety of connectivity options to suit different setups
Syntaur

Syntaur

Synth Wizards Episode 11: String Machine Madness!

Video thumbnail for Synth Wizards Episode 11: String Machine Madness! by Syntaur

Synth Wizards Episode 11: String Machine Madness!

Syntaur

Syntaur

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Ken Freeman String Machine.

Features and functionality

  • The Ken Freeman String Machine uses a divide-down system, ensuring phase-lock across octaves, which is uncommon in typical analog polysynths.

    Source
  • Its paraphonic nature means all notes share a VCA envelope, unlike most modern synths which provide individual envelopes per note.

    Source
  • The machine's sound heavily relies on a BBD ensemble chorus, requiring multiple choruses at different rates with slight clipping for authentic replication.

    Source
  • Ken Freeman's original design featured 12 master oscillators with independent LFOs, creating complex movement when chords are played.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Freeman's string machine prototypes were highly sought after in the 70s, providing unparalleled string sounds for session work.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The distinct sound of the Solina string machine, due to its shared VCA and BBD chorus, can't be fully replicated by typical analog polysynths.

    Source

User experience

  • Users find that understanding the unique architecture of vintage string machines is essential before attempting accurate sound replication.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Jon Anderson uses Ken Freeman String Machine

Jon Anderson

Guitarist, Singer

Yes

...
Verified via Photo

This Sound on Sound article states, "Once complete, it became his session string synth, appearing on a Who's Who of late '70s albums, including releases from artists such as Mike Oldfield, Sally Oldfield and Jon Anderson of Yes," about Ken Freeman's String Machine.

Genre Usage

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

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