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Average Price: $790
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$500
$1501+
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Description
The Suiko ST-50 Koto Synthesizer is a truly unique addition to any musician's arsenal, bridging traditional Japanese sound with modern electronic capabilities. This synthesizer is dedicated to the authentic recreation of the Koto, a traditional Japanese stringed instrument, offering musicians the ability to explore the rich, resonant tones that have graced Eastern music for centuries. Whether you're composing for film, creating ambient soundscapes, or simply exploring new sonic territories, the ST-50 provides a seamless way to incorporate the distinct sound of the Koto into your compositions.
Its user-friendly interface makes it accessible for both experienced musicians and beginners eager to delve into the world of synths. The ST-50 Koto Synthesizer comes equipped with a variety of control options, including pitch modulation and sound shaping parameters, allowing for a high degree of sound customization. This flexibility is perfect for musicians looking to push their creative boundaries and experiment with traditional sounds in a contemporary context.
Key Features:
- Dedicated Koto sound synthesis for authentic tonal recreation
- Intuitive controls for pitch modulation and sound shaping
- User-friendly interface suitable for all levels of musicians
- Ideal for a variety of genres, including ambient, film scoring, and experimental music
- Offers a modern approach to traditional Japanese music instruments
Product specs
| Brand | Suiko |
| Model | ST-50 Koto Synthesizer |
| Year | 1980s |
| Made In | Japan |
| Categories | Analog Synths, Desktop Synths |
| Analog / Digital | Analog |
| Polyphony | 1 Voice |
FAQs
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What kind of sound does the Suiko ST-50 Koto Synthesizer produce?
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The Suiko ST-50 Koto Synthesizer is designed to emulate the sound of the traditional Japanese koto instrument, providing a unique and culturally rich tonal palette.
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Is the Suiko ST-50 Koto Synthesizer polyphonic?
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No, the Suiko ST-50 Koto Synthesizer is monophonic, meaning it can only play one note at a time.
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What type of synthesis does the Suiko ST-50 use?
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The Suiko ST-50 Koto Synthesizer utilizes analog synthesis to generate its sounds, offering a warm and authentic audio experience.
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Can the Suiko ST-50 Koto Synthesizer be integrated into a modern studio setup?
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While the Suiko ST-50 is an analog synthesizer from the 1980s, it can be incorporated into a modern studio setup, though it may require additional equipment for MIDI integration.
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What is the primary use of the Suiko ST-50 Koto Synthesizer?
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The Suiko ST-50 is primarily used for creating koto-inspired sounds, making it ideal for musicians seeking to incorporate traditional Japanese timbres into their compositions.
Videos
HAINBACH
The rarest Japanese synthesizer? | Suiko ST-50
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Suiko ST-50 Koto Synthesizer.
Features and functionality
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The SUIKO ST-50's interface mimics Koto frets, following a Japanese minor scale, offering a unique cultural approach to music creation.
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The ST-50's trill function is noted to become repetitive, but its special chords and vibrato are standout features appreciated by users.
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The Microcosm pedal, when used with the ST-50, offers intuitive controls that don't require frequent consultation of the manual, enhancing user experience.
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Use cases and applications
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Originally designed to train Koto players and accompany poetry, the ST-50 provides a distinct sound palette for traditional Japanese music and modern genres like hip hop.
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The ST-50 pairs effectively with the Hologram Electronics Microcosm pedal, allowing for expansive looping and granular processing, ideal for ambient music creation.
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Comparisons
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The ST-50 lacks MIDI, limiting production potential compared to more modern synths, though it excels in live play or sampling.
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The Alesis Wedge is warmer and softer compared to the Quadraverb, which excels at harsh, cold distortion; both are recommended for non-overlapping uses.
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The ST-60 is seen as an upgrade over the ST-50 for its sound quality, while the ST-100 offers even more desirable tones according to user preferences.
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Value and pricing
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The instrument is rare and prices have inflated due to increased exposure, but market trends suggest they may stabilize over time.
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User experience
Other
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The ST-50's design resembles printing equipment more than an instrument, surprising many with its sound quality despite a cheap-looking case.
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Older Suiko models have custom DIN ports, which do not adhere to standard MIDI or audio configurations, posing challenges for connectivity and modification.
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Software and compatibility
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The ST-60 is the only model in its series with MIDI capabilities, specifically MIDI in, offering limited integration for studio use.
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Critic Reviews
Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
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