Elka Synthex

Infobox_synthesizer
synth_name = Synthex
synth_manufacturer = Elka
synthesis_type = Analog Subtractive
polyphony = 8
timbrality = 4
oscillator = | 2 per voice + noisefilter = | Multi-mode, HP, LP, BP, resonanceattenuator = ADSR
left_control = Joystick
lfo = 2
keyboard = 61-key| memory = 40+40 locations
ext_control = Custom interface / MIDI (late models)
Foot switches (Advance, Glide, Hold, Release)
fx = Chorus, Ring Modulation
dates = 1981-1985
price =

The Elka Synthex is an analog, polyphonic hybrid music synthesizer.

Overview

Designed by Mario Maggi, it was produced between 1981 and 1985 by the Elka company of Italy. A company more noted for its organs, this would be its first and last foray into music synthesizers under that name. Unusually, it also contained a built in real-time and step-time 4-track monophonic sequencer with real-time transposition. Sequences and patches could be dumped to analog cassette tape through an audio interface. There are 8 main DCOs with selectable waveform. These DCOs can be ganged to provide 4-note polyphony with optional phase lock.

Trivia

It has been famously used by Stevie Wonder and Jean-Michel Jarre. The famous Jarre laser harp sound was produced largely by the Synthex.

External links

* [http://www.futureproducers.com/article.php/id/38 Elka Synthex review] - futureproducers.com
* [http://www.hyperionwebs.com/electronicshadows/archives/techtalk/synthex.htm Elka Synthex overview] - ElectronicShadows