Showing posts with label EML. Show all posts
Showing posts with label EML. Show all posts
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Monday, August 16, 2010
THE EML ELECTROCOMP 101
This was EML's most popular synth, with 1000 made between 1972-82. The 101 is a duophonic, semi-modular keyboard synth with inputs/outputs for each module, and continuously variable waveform control for each VCO (how can you not love those knobs!). This is the suitcase synth made famous by Allen Ravenstine of Pere Ubu, whose wonderfully expressive noise bursts, sonic squiggles, and aural textures first turned me on to the possibilities of sound. Listen to THE MODERN DANCE, DUB HOUSING, and NEW PICNIC TIME for the sounds of pop architecture crumbling into poetry.
Sunday, August 15, 2010
THE EML-400
Sometimes called the EML 400/401 because it shipped as a double module (synth/sequencer), this analogue/digital hybrid was produced between 1970-84. Only about 300 were ever made. It seems that it was the first sequencer to use a quantizer and a voltage-controlled envelope generator. That one is able to program and patch this beast while running the sequence quantized or variably, can make form some truly twisted little sequences. My 400 is missing the original colorful slider caps, yet functions flawlessly. Like most EML products, the 400 was built mainly for use in schools, so I can only imagine the sonic mayhem that blared from those music rooms!
Friday, August 13, 2010
THE EML-200 MODULAR SYNTH
One of my favorite toys is the EML-200. It was made by the Electronic Music Laboratories between 1972-1980, and about 400 were manufactured. Mine is in excellent shape, and was purchased from the fine folks at Tone Tweakers (check them out!). It has two oscillators, an LFO, a HPF, a LPF, ring modulators, sample and hold, spring reverb, and more. It seems to be more of an educational, lab-oriented synth than a performance model, but fun nonetheless. If anyone has its companion piece for sale, the EML 300 Manual Controller, please drop me a line care of this blog. Thanks. Also, the 200 was meant to work as an add-on to the EML ElectroComp 101 keyboard synth (which I also own), but as a non-player of keyboards I keep them unconnected.
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