The OM27 was released in 1981 and became an
international overnight success as a truly portable electronic musical
instrument. Released in three colours, brown, ivory and Red (ultra
rare)*, the Omnichord has 27 chords grouped into three rows:
major, minor and seventh. The ergonomics were much improved over the
Portachord/Tronichord with the 27 chord buttons located centrally and
the Sonic Strings located just to the right and turned by 90 degrees.
This made for a far more comfortable playing experience. An "Instant
Off" touch pad was located at the top of the strumplate which silenced
the Omnichord. The built in speaker was located on the right of the
Strumplate whilst the new control panel was located on the left of the
chord buttons. Although only one sound was provided for the Stumplate
(Harp) the new adjustable sustain meant the instrument could be played
percussively or like a stringed instrument. The 5 new styles (rhythms)
with automatic bass and chords completely opened up the Omnichord and
gave Suzuki the much required extra features the Tronichord lacked and a
complete marketing program was put into place.
Design change
Although the metal touch sensitive plate could be played by hand, the
OM27 was also supplied with a special conductive Rubber Plectrum. It
became apparent those with dry hands struggled to create a sound and a
new touch responsive membrane strumplate design was adopted which could
be played more easily. As a result the Plectrum was dropped completely.
One could retro fit the OM27 with the newly designed plate and these
models can easily be recognized by the lack of the 1" plastic moulding
directly under the 'instant off' touch plate. This new design has been
retained through every model since, including the QC1.
Accessories included:
OCA Mains Adapter.
OCC1 Silver Padded vinyl gig bag with strap and Omnichord Logo. A
zipped compartment on the outside for storage of small items (such as
the Plectrum)
OCC2 A very fine locking hard carry case finished in
brown leatherette and gold Omnichord Logo with a plush lined interior
and a storage compartment for accessories such as plectrum, adapter and
batteries.
OCS-7 Amplified Speaker
OCM-3 Microphone
Information taken from www.omnichord-heaven.com
* note:
not really sure about this, I never came across a red one. The only one I ever saw was on this picture. If anybody owns or seen one, please contact me, send a photo or...sell it to me:-)
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