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

The Crumar Compac String uses analog sound generation with full polyphony based on divider technology. The control panel includes overall volume, separate level knobs for violin and cello sections (with octave shift), and a sustain control to set decay length. A master tuning control is located on the rear panel, and an expression pedal was available as an optional accessory.

Context

Crumar was founded in 1971 by Mario Crucianelli in Castelfidardo, Italy. The Compac String was released in 1973, developed after the commercial success of the Compac Piano as a dedicated string machine. It was part of Crumar's initial product lineup, which included the Pianoman, Stringman, and Organizer (all c. 1974), and reflected the company's focus on affordable, compact keyboards during the electronic organ boom of the early 1970s.

Market

The Crumar Compac String has been listed at 300€ (Polynominal), with price references ranging from 200 to 300 from one seller, though the context of these figures is unclear.

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