Yamaha SK-20

Robert L's Analog Synths

Yamaha SK-20

Exhibited at
Robert L's Analog Synths

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Yamaha SK-20 is a polyphonic organ/string/synth hybrid from masters at Yamaha. The SK series of polyphonic analog keyboards was meant to provide full polyphonic keyboards with Yamaha superb organ and synth technology, enriched by the voltage controlled filter that sounds similar to VCF of famous CS series. It is ideal for lush orchestral, organ and pad sounds.
   This series successfully stood the competition of such famous analogs as ARP Omni), Solina and Roland Paraphonic Strings. The SK-20 combines three independent sections: an excellent organ section with several harmonics controllable by potentiometers (similar to drawbar controls), a simplified string section, and quite good polyphonic synth section.
   The organ section itself is worth the price of the keyboard! When you hear it you will finally realize what was wrong with the stiff and dull organ sounds on your digital machines. Not exactly the Hammond, but very warm and fresh sounds.
   Three preset combinations will satisfy your needs for classic organ sound, from deep-warm to cheesy sounds.

The selection of "manual" enables you to make your own combinations. Tremolo effect is astonishingly good and fully resembles the acceleration (and deceleration too!) of the rotating speaker system. And of course, percussion is heard only while not playing legato notes!
   The synth section has a VCF with a resonance that can be modulated by a full ADSR envelope, and an extra control for contouring the loudness. There are several useful controls that will help you program your sounds and combinations, and to add the necessary expression.
   All three sections can be mixed together to produce really rich orchestral sounds. Ideal for real players, who will not find the lack of MIDI as an insurmountable obstacle for using this keyboard.
   With its nice old design, a lot of potentiometers and, of course, the beautiful wooden sides, Yamaha SK-20 represents a considerable rarity and a nice supplement to every analog collection. (Send your email.) ((The picture is gratefully taken from Vintage Synth)