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Description

I first got a PAiA 4700 Modular Synthesizer in 1981. It consisted of two cabinets hinged together and a monophonic keyboard controller. The system has since grown with an additional three cabinets, and more are being planned. If it weren't for the Korg SQ-1 sequencer, I might have lost interest. Although the 4700 series has been discontinued, I am still making new modules for it. The 4700 has a bit of a global cult following, known for its simplicity of use and quirky sounds.

Mears Lab

Mears Lab

1976 Paia Model 4700 Analog Modular Synthesizer Deep Dive

Video thumbnail for 1976 Paia Model 4700 Analog Modular Synthesizer Deep Dive by Mears Lab

1976 Paia Model 4700 Analog Modular Synthesizer Deep Dive

Mears Lab

Mears Lab

Video thumbnail for PAiA 4700 demo by BIG R.O.B.

PAiA 4700 demo

BIG R.O.B.

BIG R.O.B.

Video thumbnail for 2 PAIA 4700 Modular Synth Patches by ambitstudio

2 PAIA 4700 Modular Synth Patches

ambitstudio

ambitstudio

Video thumbnail for paia4700dec2015 by Slope114

paia4700dec2015

Slope114

Slope114

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Paia 4700 Modular Synthesizer.

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners of the 4700 series highlight tuning challenges, often requiring frequent adjustments and maintenance checks for optimal performance.

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  • Owners note the importance of checking the fuse and measuring output at transformers and rectifier diodes for power supply troubleshooting.

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  • Adding heatsinks is advised due to potential heat dissipation issues when using 9V regulators from a higher voltage source.

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Features and functionality

  • The 4700 series originally used hz/volt scaling, unlike the 9700 series which uses the more standard oct/volt scaling.

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Build quality

  • The original 4700 modular series required users to assemble every module from components, leading to potential errors from poor soldering over time.

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Comparisons

  • Some users transitioned from PAiA to Behringer System 100 for more reliability and less maintenance hassle.

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User experience

  • Building the original 4700 modules could be complex, necessitating careful attention to assembly details to ensure proper functionality.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Rebuilding the power supply is commonly suggested, with recommendations to use an MFOS wall wart supply to achieve necessary voltages.

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Other

  • Access to original build notes and schematics is available on the PAiA forum, aiding in troubleshooting and restoration efforts.

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3.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 2 Ratings

5 star
4 star
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1 star
max_mars

Paia 4700 Modular Synthesizer

My system has grown to include six VCOs, several mixers, transposers, and other modules, and is now housed in five cabinets. This system is a bit wonky electronically, has a sound unique unto itself, and works great with the Korg SQ-1 sequencer.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Masonna uses Paia 4700 Modular Synthesizer

Masonna

Composer, Music Producer

Acid Eater

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Verified via Photo

A PAiA 4700 system with keyboard appears on the cover of the Space Machine album 2 and is listed in the credits

See how Drew Neumann uses Paia 4700 Modular Synthesizer

Drew Neumann

Keyboardist, Composer

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Verified

Drew Neumann's use of the Paia 4700 Modular Synthesizer is confirmed on his official website, where it is explicitly mentioned.

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 Paia 4700 Modular Synthesizer, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

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    max_mars
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