☆ RARE ☆ 1970s Koto Synthesizer Suiko ST-20 + Speaker Suitcase ☆ Vintage Analog Synth Japanese Scale Tuning! EXC!

**All items shipped same-day via international courier with tracking !**

Suiko ST-20
Koto Shigin Synthesizer
Made In Japan
1970s
Serial No. G99052

Ultra rare unit with the upgraded 'sequencer/memory' function.
This particular unit has the upgraded feature of an in-built 'sequencer'. Not many of the ST-20's had this function. You can see the 4 grey buttons on the right of the front panel.
The 'sequencer' is somewhat of a memory recording circuit that allows the user to record melodies and have them played back at the push of the button. You could use this for accompaniments such as top melodies or bass lines. It's a little confusing to figure out as there is no instruction manual, but you will enjoy exploring the functions of the unit through playing it.

Someone experienced may even be able to be modify it for MIDI or CV voltage?

These were made for those studying Japanese instruments seriously and were expensive back in the day. Only sold in Japan domestically.

Very cool with built-in speaker case. Excellent working order!
Tuned to the scale of a Japanese Koto. 3 adjustable scale options.
Simply playing on any of the keys randomly results in some of the most wonderfully exotic melodies despite the players level of skill or knowledge of Japanese music.

This unit has been checked over by our technician and has been lightly serviced (potentiometers lubed, switches cleaned, voltage checked. Everything working as the original circuit was designed ! Sounds lovely.

Sale Includes:
- Suiko ST-20
- Original speaker suitcase + Cables

Features:
Oscillator - The ST-20 uses a single analog oscillator with 3 tone options - Shakuhachi (Japanese Flute), Koto (Japanese Harp) & Pipe Organ.
It is monophonic with a top-note priority.
All tones are very nice warm analog sounding.
There seems to be a subtle vibrato on some tones which may be adjustable internally.
This particular unit as the upgraded feature of a 'sequencer' memory recording function.

Octave switch - There is a switch to raise the register up and down an octave which is useful for recording bass and lead lines.

Register Select - The top dial is to shift the key register up and down, giving you the option to solo your favourite scales over any key you like. It also allows you to create even higher or lower register notes than the octave switch allows.

Sustain - There is a sustain switch to toggle between a short pluck sound or a long drawn out release. The koto sound is not affected by this switch, it seems the tone circuit was designed this way. You would also be able to circuit bend your own sustain control for dialing in the sound you really want if that's your style.

Volume Dial - A sweeping volume dial located at the bottom left of the unit.

Fine tuning - There is a switch for shifting the pitch very slightly in quarter tone increments. It becomes sort of 'Microtonal' in a way. You can also use this to do a little pitch bending too.

Scale switch - There is a small switch just above the key buttons which seems to change the pattern of the way the notes are configured. Currently it is set to the Japanese scale but you can play around with this if you like.

Speaker - The speaker goes loud and sounds lovely.

Output - There is also a direct mono output for headphones, this could also be used as a direct output for connecting straight into your DAW or recording setup. Its located where the cables come out of the speaker unit.

The keyboard module is connected to the speaker cabinet via a 5-pin 'MIDI' looking cable. This is not actually a MIDI cable, it simply just communicates with the power/amp board which is located inside the speaker cabinet.
The unit halves are connected by two hook hinges so you can pull them apart and use them

Condition:
A few very light marks on this particular unit as expected for it's age, please look at the photos closely as this is the actual unit for sale !
Sorry if there are some specks of dust in the photographs.
No major scuffs on this unit. Some very light marks as pictured. It is a vintage unit.
Power supply / Amplification boards have been checked by our technician and the unit works well the way it was designed!
Overall the unit is in an excellent condition!
Everything tested and working great! Lovely warm analog sounds.
The unit has been cleaned lightly and is in wonderful condition overall.

Runs on 100V, will work in USA (115V-120V) ! although I recommend using a step-down transformer for extended use.
If your voltage is 240V (EU/UK/AU) I recommend finding a step down transformer from your regions voltage.

Buyer is responsible for any customs fees and local taxes that may be incurred.
See shop polices for details. Packed with care, tracking information
included with every order :~)
I believe this unit will safely fit into an 80 size shipping box. You may request a larger box for extra cushioning at your own expense.

Feel free to ask any questions or make me an offer.

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Thanks for looking !