Crumar Compac String (1973)
An analog string synthesizer with 49-note polyphony and dual string presets, built for expressive, affordable string textures.
Overview
The Crumar Compac String is a 49-key analog string synthesizer made in Italy in 1973. Designed as a dedicated string machine, it followed the successful Compac Piano and targeted musicians seeking affordable alternatives to high-end electronic organs. It delivers full polyphony using divider-based analog technology, with two preset sounds: Violin at 8' and Cello at 4'. The instrument features separate level controls for each preset, sustain control, and a master tuning knob on the rear panel.
Specifications
| Engine | VCO |
| Engine Detailed | 1VCO pre-shaped for Strings |
| Technology | analog |
| Voice (max) | 49 |
| Polyphony | full |
| Oscillators | 1 |
| Multitimbral | 1 part |
| Presets | 2 presets |
| Preset sounds | Violin at 8', Cello at 4' |
| Memory | 2 presets |
| Envelope (VCA) | Sustain |
| Keys | 49 |
| Keyboard | 49 Non-weighted keys |
| Key type | Keys |
| Velocity | N |
| Aftertouch | N |
| Controls | overall volume, sustain control, and preset level controls |
| Effect | none |
| Midi | none |
| Display | none |
| PSU | internal |
| OS | none |
| Audio | Mono out |
| Rear panel connectors | main output, Volume pedal input |
Design
Sound generation is analog, fully polyphonic and based on divider technology. The control panel has overall volume, separate level knobs for the violin and cello sections (with octave shift), and a sustain control that sets decay length. The master tuning control sits on the rear panel. An expression pedal was available as an optional accessory.
Context
Crumar was founded in 1971 by Mario Crucianelli in Castelfidardo, Italy. The Compac String came out in 1973, after the commercial success of the Compac Piano, as a dedicated string machine. It was part of Crumar's initial product lineup, along with the Pianoman, Stringman, and Organizer (all c. 1974). The company focused on affordable, compact keyboards during the electronic organ boom of the early 1970s.
Market
The Crumar Compac String has been listed at 300€ (Polynominal). One seller shows price references ranging from 200 to 300, though the context of these figures is unclear.
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