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Description

RMI introduced it's first and only synthesizer, the RMI Harmonic Synthesizer, in 1974. Although it was housed in the familiar RMI case, it was totally different than any previous RMI keyboard. The instrument was monophonic, with two independent digital harmonic generators. Each generator's waveform could be modified independently, effectively like having two synthesizers by depressing one key.

Vykaar Tones

Vykaar Tones

RMI Harmonic Synthesizer quick test

Video thumbnail for RMI Harmonic Synthesizer quick test by Vykaar Tones

RMI Harmonic Synthesizer quick test

Vykaar Tones

Vykaar Tones

Video thumbnail for ARCADIA - RMI Harmonic Synthesizer by MOS-LAB

ARCADIA - RMI Harmonic Synthesizer

MOS-LAB

MOS-LAB

Video thumbnail for DinosaurierTreffen 2018 Synthesizer Demos, RMI Harmonic Demo by Moogulator

DinosaurierTreffen 2018 Synthesizer Demos, RMI Harmonic Demo

Moogulator

Moogulator

Reviews

Owner Insights

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

Features and functionality

  • The RMI Harmonic Synthesizer uses 16-band harmonic controls for sound modulation, a unique method compared to traditional filter sweeps.

    Source
  • The synthesizer's harmonics can be manually adjusted, creating static waveforms, unlike traditional LFOs and EGs that allow dynamic sound evolution.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The RMI's harmonic control approach is likened to Hammond organs' drawbars, offering a similar additive synthesis experience.

    Source
  • Synclavier II, with its additive and FM synthesis, is noted as a more advanced counterpart to explore evolving sound designs compared to the RMI.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners find the task of adjusting individual harmonics cumbersome, highlighting the challenge of achieving significant sound changes with each knob.

    Source

4.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

5 star
4 star
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2 star
1 star
firak
firak

6782

SOS Jean Michel Jarre Page

At SOS Jean Michel Jarre Page, photo note: "One of the most unusual synths in Jarre’s collection is the RMI Harmonic Synthesizer, an early additive synth. On top of it is an even rarer device: the Digisequencer matrix sequencer custom–built by Michel Geiss to Jarre’s specification."

Genres:

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Aphex Twin uses RMI Harmonic Synthesizer

Aphex Twin

Music Producer

Universal Indicator

...
Verified via Photo

Appears on the equipment list used to make Syro.

See how Jean Michel Jarre uses RMI Harmonic Synthesizer

Jean Michel Jarre

Keyboardist, Music Producer

The Dustbins

...
Verified via Soundonsound

In this picture of Jean Michel Jarre's studio, you can see a RMI Harmonic Synthesizer.

See how Guy Berryman uses RMI Harmonic Synthesizer

Guy Berryman

Bassist, Music Producer

Coldplay

...
Verified via YouTube

Person who uploaded this video actually played Berryman's RMI Harmonic Synthesizer. This very synth came to the person for servicing, but he also took a video of playing the very synth. The person confirms this in the comments' section.

See how Jean Michel Andrè Jarre uses RMI Harmonic Synthesizer

Jean Michel Andrè Jarre

...
Verified via Free

Albums which use RMI Harmonic Synthesizer : • Oxygene > Oxygene Part 4

Oxygene Part 5

• Equinoxe

• Rendez-vous > Troisième Rendez-vous / Third Rendez-vous

• Oxygene 7-13 > Oxygene 11

See how Emperor Machine (Andy Meecham) uses RMI Harmonic Synthesizer

Emperor Machine (Andy Meecham)

...
Verified via YouTube

In a studio tour video by MusicRadar Tech, Andy Meecham of Emperor Machine showcases the RMI Harmonic Synthesizer, highlighting its role in his music production.

Album Usage

The RMI Harmonic Synthesizer 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 RMI Harmonic Synthesizer, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Akai S1000
Akai S1000 Audio Samplers
1
TC Electronic M-One XL
TC Electronic M-One XL Effects Processors
1
Digidesign Pro Tools HD3
1
E-Mu Proteus 2000
E-Mu Proteus 2000 Synthesizers & Sound Modules
1
E-MU Carnaval
E-MU Carnaval Synthesizers
1
Yamaha SPX900
Yamaha SPX900 Effects Processors
1
Mackie HR824mk2 Studio Monitor
Mackie HR824mk2 Studio Monitor Active & Passive Monitors
1
Akai CD 3000
Akai CD 3000 Audio Samplers
1
PPG Wave 2.3
PPG Wave 2.3 Synthesizers
1

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    Gear IQ 6782