Suzuki's iconic Omnichord returns with the OM-108, a modern update of the classic formula featuring new digital synth sounds alongside the original omni1 and omni2 analogue synth circuits.

Supplier's notes:
Released in 1981, the Omnichord is an electronic musical instrument with an automatic accompaniment function (auto bass / chord) and equipped with a harp sensor. By pressing a chord button and sliding your finger on the harp sensor (strumplate), an arpeggio corresponding to the chord is heard, allowing anyone to easily accompany a song. Omnichord does not require any previous musical experience with an instrument, or even knowledge of staff notation. All that is needed are the chord names required to play a song which is a method commonly known as 'tab'. Combined with its portability, Omnichord became extremely popular, especially in Europe and America as a new musical instrument that anyone can enjoy - anywhere. In addition, due to the unique electronic sounds that are reminiscent of the 80's, and the tactile way musical expressions are achieved, Omnichord has developed cult status around the world. It not only appears in recorded music, but also publicity photos, and has featured in the titles of songs and albums. The Omnichord name was discontinued after the OM-300 (released in 1996), but its popularity as a unique musical instrument has endured the test of time, and now, over 40 years later the Omnichord returns with the OM-108.

Simply press a chord button and slide your finger on the strumplate. In this way, you can play accompaniment to almost any song on the very same day you first try the Omnichord!

Suzuki put a great deal of effort into the design of the Omnichord so that it accurately reproduces the sound of the OM-84, a model that is hailed as a masterpiece for its tone and versatility. To achieve this in the OM-108, Suzuki decided to apply the same method for sound creation as the OM84, incorporating real analogue circuitry into the new model. In total, the OM-108 is equipped with 10 types of strumplate tones, whilst "omni1" and "omni2" reproduce the classic sound of the OM-84, revived for future generations to enjoy.

The OM-108 includes a selection of timeless instrument tones that are both retro and current. The "celeste", "harp", and "piano" featured in previous models. The "FM piano" tone is new, this is an electric piano sound that helped define 1980s music. The OM-108 is equipped with. "omni1" and "omni2" which use real analogue circuitry. Other tones are reproduced using PCM sound generation.

There are 10 tones...omni1 / omni2 / harp / celeste / A.piano / guitar / FMpiano / organ / vibes / banjo(omni1 and omni2 have the same Main Voice but different Sub Voices).

The model OM-84 was equipped with two electronic harp tones, allowing the tones to be layered and played. OM-108 reproduces this function. A tone that sounds beautiful when layered with the Main Voice has been assigned as a Sub Voice. To control each layer, simply turn the appropriate Volume knob. This enables real time control changes adding expression to your sound.

Even though many rhythms included in the OM-108 share the same names as previous models, they have been updated to incorporate rhythm patterns that are current. Also, for the first time on Omnichord, a trap beat (Hip Hop) has been included. Suzuki have selected "usable" rhythms that will allow you to play a wider variety of songs.

There are 10 kinds of rhythm...rock1 / rock2 / slow rock / country / swing / disco / hip hop / funk / bossanova / waltz

The "sus4"' and "add9" chords, often used in popular music, have been added. It is now possible to play a total of 108 chord types, hence the model number 'OM-108'. The Omnichord has developed into an instrument that can be played more intuitively without having to substitute other chords.

Equipped with a wide type strumplate similar to models OM-100 onwards. Every corner of the plate responds sensitively to light touch, so you can concentrate on playing without stress.

In addition to the melody keyboard, the OM-108 is equipped with drum pad mode for the first time as a function (when the "KEYBOARD" button is pressed). Owners of the OM-108 will be pleased to note the drum pad is assigned not only to the chord button, but also to the strumplate. This allows for the creation of interesting beats using the OM-108 retro drum kits.

The OM-108 not only sends chords and strumplate data, but also drum performance information from MIDI OUT. Strumplate information can be sent on two MIDI channels, allowing you to layer tones with external MIDI sound sources, or to layer the OM-108 internal sounds with external sound sources. The OM-108 has evolved into an instrument that invites you to explore more creative sounds using MIDI.

The OM-108 includes rhythm voicing from the OM-84, which is extremely popular for its early 1980s retro sound. You can switch the rhythm tones between OM-108 and OM-84 by using a special 'power-on' operation.

Although it has a built-in speaker, the Omnichord is small, lightweight, and battery-powered*, making it easy to carry and play. Connect an external amplifier and headphones, and you can perform anywhere, such as in the studio, performing at a live venue, or just playing in your bedroom! *Powered by 8, AA batteries or dedicated AC adapter (both sold separately).

Using "REAL TIME CONTROL", the OM-108 integrates multiple functions for switching the way chords and rhythms are played. Whether you want to play at free tempo (without rhythm), add bass accompaniment, or start with a drum prelude, you can easily switch in real time even during a performance.

When connecting to an external speaker etc., you can turn on / off the sound produced by the speaker of the instrument. This is useful when you want to monitor your own sound during live performances. This is a new feature included on the OM-108 in direct response to user's requests.

Specifications

Chord buttons: 38
Chords: major, minor, 7th, major7th, minor7th, augmented, diminished, suspended4th, add9th
Voices: 10 tones (main, sub tones) / 4 octaves
Rhythm Pattern: 10 patterns
Control: Master Volume, Chord Volume, Main Voice Volume, Sub Voice Volume, Sustain, Rhythm Volume, Tempo
Button Controls: Power, Chord, KEYBOARD ON / OFF, Voice Select, Rhythm Select, Chord-Manual / Auto, Chord Hold, Rhythm-Start / Sync Start
Other Functions: Instant OFF, Transpose, Octave Shift, ON / OFF SPEAKER, Master Tuning
Speaker: 10cm
Amplifier output: 4.3W
Jack: DC inlet, LINE OUT (monaural standard), headphone output (Stereo mini), MIDI OUT
Power Supply: AC adapter, 8 AA alkaline or Ni-MH batteries (all sold separately)
Power consumption: 3.7W
Continuous battery operation time: Approximately 8 hours
Measurement: W45.7 x D25.0 x H5.18cm(17.99 x 9.84 x 2.04 in.)
Weight: 1.2kg(2.65lb)
Accessories: Melody keyboard overlayer

Accessories (sold separately, not included)

AC adapter 100-240V
AD1-1210A(100-120V)
AD3-1210A(220-240V)
Strap pin OSB-108
Gig Bag OGB-108