EMS Synthi AKS
A vintage analogue synthesizer with a matrix patching system, produced by Electronic Music Studios.
Overview
The EMS Synthi AKS is a vintage analogue instrument made by Electronic Music Studios. It is not the earlier Synthi A. This unit, serial number 45300KS, was described as a one-owner example from new, all original and unmodified. It is noted as fully working, with signs of use and age. The control surface has minor wear, the KS blue finish has a small mark, and the front of the Spartanite case has a burn mark. One rear hinge locks but does not sit flat. The unit was professionally serviced. That included replacing the old power-regulation capacitors, a deep cleaning, and calibration.
Design
The Synthi AKS has a control surface with a KS blue finish. The Spartanite case has nickel catches and hinges. A matrix panel handles the patching, and Matrix Pins come with it to make the connections. The unit runs on either 240V or US 110V through a switchable input. It includes a Cinch-Jones Synthi-to-KS cable. A brand new power cord and interconnect cable were supplied with this unit, along with a new set of Matrix Pins from EMS.
Context
The Synthi AKS is a separate model within the EMS product line from the Synthi A. Jean Michel Jarre appears in a demonstration video for the AKS, which shows its use by notable electronic musicians.
Market
A Synthi AKS in good working condition sold for £12,990 GBP in 2021, according to rlmusic.co.uk. Dealer-listed examples were priced between £15,000 and £18,000 GBP as of March 2020. A US sale was reported at $4,200, though the source is considered low-authority and likely outdated. One service option is a VCO stabilisation modification per EMS guidelines, priced at £480 GBP. The seller notes this unit is not a museum piece but priced accordingly.
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