The Analogue Wonder of Yamaha's SK30

Talented synthesist & Youtuber MIDERA recently published a demo of 1979's SK30 "Symphonic Ensemble". Adding only some modest effects, the demo really impresses - a complete analogue soundscape bursting forth from just one instrument.

Yamaha's late 70's lineup featured an impressive assortment of woodgrain oddities, including the CS15D preset synthesizer - sold alongside it's more conventional CS15 cousin. The SK30 was the second tier product in the "Symphonic Ensemble" line. The range begins with the modest SK10 & 15 - featuring analogue strings, "brass" (which sounds a bit like the strings but put through a static filter) and organ sections - don't forget the ensemble chorus!

The SK20 is where things get interesting. A "Poly Synth" section is included (actually paraphonic!) with saw/square & a filter that is switchable from low to bandpass. I think that the 20 offers a lot, personally, a good compromise of function/weight and price. If I were to buy an SK, it would be this one.

The SK30 adds a CS5-equivalent monosynth on top! A single VCO with filter, envelope LFO & portamento can be layered over the top of the other sections, or sent to it's own audio output, beautiful! Finally, the SK50D adds a whole second keyboard, plus a bass synthesizer - what a magical, unwieldy instrument!

Whilst we're talking about unwieldy instruments, a small aside. Many of Yamaha's home organs of this period featured similar internal electronics to the synthesizer line - yes, even a monosynth in some cases! Some might say the designs were even improved, by the addition of an ANALOGUE CHOIR sound! Check out this demo:

Beautiful! For most people, these instruments are probably impractical - but what a sound.

Posted by MagicalSynthAdventure an expert in synthesis technology from last Century and Amiga enthusiast.

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