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Description

Unleash your musical creativity with the Sequential Circuits Prelude, a versatile synthesizer that effortlessly combines vintage charm with modern functionality. Designed for musicians who crave flexibility and depth in their sound, the Prelude offers a unique blend of piano, organ, bass, and string sections. This powerful instrument allows you to layer up to two sections simultaneously, providing endless possibilities for sonic exploration.

The Prelude stands out with its intuitive interface, making it a joy to play whether you’re on stage or in the studio. The built-in 7-band equalizer enables precise tonal shaping, ensuring your sound is as unique as your musical expression. Add depth and texture to your compositions with the integrated chorus and flanger effects, allowing you to craft rich, dynamic soundscapes effortlessly.

Perfect for both seasoned professionals and enthusiastic beginners, the Sequential Circuits Prelude is a testament to timeless design and innovative engineering. Dive into a world of sonic possibilities and let your imagination lead the way.

Key Features:

  • Combines piano, organ, bass, and string sections for versatile sound creation
  • Ability to layer up to 2 sections simultaneously
  • 7-band equalizer for detailed sound shaping
  • Built-in chorus and flanger effects
  • User-friendly interface suitable for all skill levels

Product specs

Brand Sequential
Model Prelude 49-Key 49-Voice Polyphonic Synthesizer
Finish Black
Year 1982
Made In United States
Categories Analog Synths, Keyboard Synths
Analog / Digital Analog
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Synth Action
Number of Keys 49 Keys
Polyphony 49 Voices

FAQs

Is the Sequential Circuits Prelude a polyphonic synthesizer?

Yes, the Sequential Circuits Prelude is a polyphonic synthesizer with 49 voices, allowing for complex and layered sound creation.

What type of synthesis does the Sequential Circuits Prelude use?

The Sequential Circuits Prelude utilizes analog synthesis, providing warm and rich sound characteristics typical of vintage synthesizers.

How many keys does the Sequential Circuits Prelude have and what is their size?

The Sequential Circuits Prelude features a 49-key full-size keyboard, offering a comfortable playing experience with its synth-action keys.

What are the standout features of the Sequential Circuits Prelude's sound capabilities?

The Prelude is known for its lush analog tones and versatile polyphonic capabilities, making it ideal for creating rich pads and complex textures.

Is the Sequential Circuits Prelude suitable for live performances?

With its 49 full-size keys and polyphonic capabilities, the Sequential Circuits Prelude is well-suited for live performances, offering a broad range of sound possibilities.

Synthdude

Synthdude

SCI "Prelude" demo by Synthdude

Video thumbnail for SCI "Prelude" demo by Synthdude by Synthdude

SCI "Prelude" demo by Synthdude

Synthdude

Synthdude

Video thumbnail for Siel Orchestra II; differences in the OR400 and Sequential Circuits Prelude versions by sounddoctorin

Siel Orchestra II; differences in the OR400 and Sequential Circuits Prelude versions

sounddoctorin

sounddoctorin

Video thumbnail for Sequential Circuits Prelude Demonstration by Rock Band Academy

Sequential Circuits Prelude Demonstration

Rock Band Academy

Rock Band Academy

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Sequential Circuits Prelude.

Features and functionality

  • The Sequential Circuits Prelude is essentially a Siel Orchestra with slight preset variations, offering unique 80s string sounds and polyphony.

    Source
  • It's possible to combine presets by pressing two preset buttons simultaneously, with Brass & Strings noted as a particularly effective combination.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Recapping the power supply, by replacing old electrolytic capacitors, is crucial for restoring proper functionality.

    Source
  • Desoldering and cleaning slide pots can be an intricate task, often requiring professional repair due to difficult-to-find parts.

    Source
  • Cleaning the bus bar can resolve dead keys; use a toothpick to maintain spring alignment when removing corrosion from key springs.

    Source
  • The String and Reed Attack slider is a 500k linear taper "B" pot, likely with a 45mm throw, which can be replaced if cleaning with DeoxIT doesn’t work.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Once repaired, the Prelude can fetch between $950 and $1650 due to its scarcity and vintage appeal.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Known for its distinctive string sounds, it's been used extensively in Portishead's "Third" album and Joy Division's music.

    Source
  • The "animator" function benefits from additional chorus and delay effects, enhancing its sound richness.

    Source

User experience

  • The volume issues may be due to faulty sliders; using electronic contact cleaner like DeoxIT can potentially resolve the problem.

    Source

Build quality

  • The rainbow-colored ribbon cables are solid core wires that can break internally if flexed, requiring careful handling during maintenance.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The ARP Quartet is a rebranded Siel Orchestra, while the OR 400 and Prelude share the Siel Orchestra 2’s design and features.

    Source

5.0 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
theweekendwarrior

i used to have it, now i want it again...

sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo awesome...

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Emily Kokal uses Sequential Circuits Prelude

Emily Kokal

Guitarist

Warpaint

...
Verified via YouTube

The Prelude is featured on a couple of songs on this video - there is really good example from 24:31.

Genre Usage

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

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