Elka Rhapsody 610
An Italian-made analog string synthesizer with a 61-key keyboard and four built-in sounds, .
Overview
The Elka Rhapsody 610 is a polyphonic analog string synthesizer made by Italian manufacturer ELKA, part of Generalmusic (GEM, LEM, ELKA). , it features a 61-note keyboard and offers four distinct sounds: Violoncello, Strings, Piano, and Clavichord. It was one of the more widely spread string machines of its era and expanded on earlier designs with its full-sized keyboard. The unit is multitimbral and known for its warm, lysergic analog string textures combined with celeste-type tones. It has been noted for use by Billy Currie of Ultravox.
Specifications
| Keyboard | 61-key |
| Sounds | Violoncello, Strings, Piano, Clavichord |
| Dimensions | 93.5 x 37.5 x 12 cm |
| Original price | $800 |
| Multitimbral | Yes |
Design
The string section features a discrete envelope, and the unit includes an LFO circuit as documented in service materials. It is an analog polyphonic machine with a sub-oscillator in its architecture.
Context
The Elka Rhapsody 610 was positioned as a full-keyboard evolution of earlier string machines, offering expanded playability and multitimbral capabilities. It shared the market with contemporaries like the Logan String Melody II and Farfisa Syntorchestra, and had a sibling model in the Elka Rhapsody 490.
Market
Units have sold for up to $1,200, with one listing noted at $731.46. Common issues include failing power supplies, missing fader knobs, and sound dropouts shortly after power-on. Service manuals and schematics are available, and replacement parts are offered by specialty vendors. The Rhapsody 610 is often found with its original case and pedal.
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