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Some of the most coveted Analog Keyboards for Music

  • Writer: Tapetown
    Tapetown
  • Aug 29
  • 2 min read

rare analogue keyboards for music

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Analog keyboards have a warm, organic sound that can spark a song idea or define a live set. From the 1960s to 1980s, these rare instruments were used by musicians like Stevie Wonder and The Doors to create iconic tracks. Their limited production makes them hard to find, but their tones are worth it for songwriting and recording studios. Here are 10 analog keyboards that can inspire your music creation.


1. Wurlitzer 140B

  • Era: 1960s

  • Used By: Supertramp on Breakfast in America

  • Sound: Gritty, soulful electric piano tones for pop and rock.

  • Rarity: Many units worn out from heavy use.

  • Why Musicians Want It: Its vibe is perfect for songwriting and studio recording.


2. Hohner Clavinet C

  • Era: 1960s–1970s

  • Used By: Stevie Wonder on Superstition

  • Sound: Funky, percussive tones for rhythmic grooves.

  • Rarity: Early models are harder to find than later ones.

  • Why Musicians Want It: Its sharp sound drives music creation in studios.


3. Farfisa Compact Duo

  • Era: 1960s

  • Used By: The Doors on Light My Fire

  • Sound: Bright, reedy organ tones for psychedelic rock.

  • Rarity: Small production, overshadowed by bigger brands.

  • Why Musicians Want It: Its retro sound fits performance gear and recording.


4. Yamaha CP-70

  • Era: 1970s

  • Used By: Billy Joel on Just the Way You Are

  • Sound: Rich, portable electric grand piano tones.

  • Rarity: Bulky; few in good condition.

  • Why Musicians Want It: Its lush sound is great for songwriting and live shows.


5. Elka Synthex

  • Era: 1980s

  • Used By: Jean-Michel Jarre on Zoolook

  • Sound: Warm, polyphonic synth tones for electronic music.

  • Rarity: Limited Italian production.

  • Why Musicians Want It: Its versatility inspires music creation in studios.


6. RMI Harmonic Synthesizer

  • Era: 1970s

  • Used By: Herbie Hancock for jazz

  • Sound: Quirky, textured tones for experimental songwriting.

  • Rarity: Small production, obscure brand.

  • Why Musicians Want It: Its unique sound sparks creativity in recording studios.


7. Vox Continental

  • Era: 1960s

  • Used By: The Animals on House of the Rising Sun

  • Sound: Jangly organ tones for rock and pop.

  • Rarity: Early models rare from heavy touring.

  • Why Musicians Want It: Its iconic sound suits performance gear.


8. Crumar Orchestrator

  • Era: 1970s

  • Used By: Italian prog rock bands

  • Sound: Lush string and brass tones for arrangements.

  • Rarity: Limited European production.

  • Why Musicians Want It: Its orchestral sound enhances music creation.


9. ARP Solina

  • Era: 1970s

  • Used By: Pink Floyd on Shine On You Crazy Diamond

  • Sound: Warm, atmospheric string tones.

  • Rarity: Early models are scarce.

  • Why Musicians Want It: Its dreamy sound is perfect for studio recording.


10. EML ElectroComp 200

  • Era: 1970s

  • Used By: Avant-garde electronic musicians

  • Sound: Raw, modular synth tones for experimental tracks.

  • Rarity: Small production, niche brand.

  • Why Musicians Want It: Its oddball sound inspires creative songwriting.



Analog keyboards like the Wurlitzer 140B and ARP Solina give musicians warm, unique tones for songwriting and performance. Their rarity makes them valuable for recording studios and live setups. Check out our articles on string synthesizers for more tools to inspire your music.


Related Reading: About a Studio: Sound City https://www.tapetownstudio.com/post/about-a-studio-sound-city

 
 
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