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Description
The Vako Orchestron is a unique entry in the world of synthesizers, offering a distinctive sound that has captured the imagination of musicians, sound designers, and collectors alike. Originally developed in the 1970s, this keyboard-based instrument is renowned for its optical disc technology, which allows it to play pre-recorded sounds stored on transparent discs. Each disc contains a different set of instrument samples, making the Orchestron incredibly versatile for its time. Unlike traditional tape-based samplers, the Orchestron's optical mechanism provides a different tonal quality, contributing to its cult status among vintage synth enthusiasts.
Its design includes a full-sized keyboard that offers a tactile playing experience with manual control over pitch, and the ability to switch between discs allows for a broad range of sonic possibilities. The Orchestron’s sounds have a distinct character, often described as haunting and ethereal, making it a favorite for artists looking to add a unique texture to their compositions.
Modern musicians appreciate the Orchestron not only for its historical significance but also for its ability to deliver a sound that is both nostalgic and refreshingly different from contemporary digital synthesizers. Whether you're a vintage gear collector or a musician looking to experiment with sounds that have stood the test of time, the Vako Orchestron offers an experience unlike any other.
Key Features:
- Optical disc technology for sound playback
- Full-sized keyboard with tactile feel
- Switchable sound discs for varied tones
- Unique tonal quality compared to tape-based samplers
- Cult status among vintage synth enthusiasts
Videos
optigandotcom
Vako Orchestron Optical Disc Playback Sampler
Vako Orchestron Optical Disc Playback Sampler
optigandotcom
Vako Orchestron - Kraftwerk - Trans-Europe Express
Dieter Vanmarcke
Vako Orchestron Vocal Choir - Mellotron 8 Voice Choir
Dieter Vanmarcke
Vako Orchestron - Vocal Choir
Dieter Vanmarcke
VINCE CLARKE & REED HAYS - An introduction to the Vako Orchestron
Very Records
Vako Orchestron Model C and Arp Solina String Ensemble - Watcher Of The Skies Intro
Dieter Vanmarcke
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Vako Orchestron.
Features and functionality
Software and compatibility
Use cases and applications
Value and pricing
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Orchestron units are rarer and often more expensive than Mellotrons, making sample packs a budget-friendly alternative.
Source
User experience
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Arturia's virtual instruments provide an easy way to achieve Orchestron-like sounds, with some users successfully replicating desired tones.
Source
5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating
1963
Vako Orchestron
I have two one Model A and a Model B. Really unique sounding optical disc organ. Originally there were eight discs made for it.
Used by Rainbow, Kraftwerk, Foreigner.
I have used them with pretty much all my bands. Sounds a bit like a 30s synth.
40997
never seen one of these, more info?
1963
Heres a video of me playing the vocal Choir disc.
https://www.instagram.com/tv/CcQhWwQjSRI/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Artist usage
Add artist
In a user-uploaded photo on Twimg, Alex Turner is shown using a Vako Orchestron synthesizer.
This article states Auerbach used an Orchestron on The Black Keys' album "El Camino."
The title is : The Vako Orchestron – Kraftwerk’s Secret Weapon.
In a photograph sourced from ProgArchives.com, Don Airey is shown using a Vako Orchestron in his 1981 gear setup. The image captures his equipment configuration, with the Hohner Clavinet D6 positioned atop the Vako Orchestron, alongside other instruments such as the Minimoog, ARP Odyssey, a chopped Hammond B-3, another Minimoog atop a Yamaha CS-80 synth, and Moog Taurus I bass pedals below the Hammond.
Also seen in this photo: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a3/Kraftwerk_by_Ueli_Frey_%281976%29.jpg, showing the Orchestron (or at least its side panel) below the Minimoog.
“So I’m no longer 100 percent in Logic. I also have a drum kit here, bass and guitar amps, a piano, a Mellotron M400, a Chamberlin, and a whole bunch of hardware synths, including Moogs, ARPs, an Oberheim Matrix 12, Sequential Circuits Prophet 5, Vako Orcherstron, Roland Jupiter 4 and Juno 60".
Some of the many keyboards he used on and off stage are the Hammond L-101, a B-3, the EML 101, an Orchestron, a Clavinet, an Oberheim OB-1, an Arp Omni, and a Wurlitzer Electric Piano.
Tony Carey, the keyboardist, used a Vako Orchestron on the track "Stargazer," as discussed in Episode #39 of The Deep Purple Podcast by Nathan Beaudry.
Album Usage
The Vako Orchestron 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 Vako Orchestron, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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