EMS Spectre video synthesizer
Dublin Core
Title
EMS Spectre video synthesizer
Subject
Description
Electronic Music Studios, Ltd, London, EMS Spectre video synthesizer, 1974–75
Metal, plastic, electronic components
On loan from MESS Ltd
Designed by Richard Monkhouse of EMS, the Spectre is a hybrid video synthesizer, combining both analogue and digital techniques. It uses the EMS patchboard system to allow completely flexible connections between module inputs and outputs. The video signals are digital, but they are controlled by analogue voltages. The instrument includes a digital patchboard for image composition, and an analogue patchboard for motion control. The prototype was said to have been used to provide a projected light show for an early Tangerine Dream concert at the London Rainbow. This particular instrument is not part of the Grainger Museum Electronic Music Studio. It is currently on loan to the MESS Collection. It was recently rediscovered by David Chesworth, literally ‘under the bed’ of a friend, who had been minding it for the owners who had moved overseas.
Metal, plastic, electronic components
On loan from MESS Ltd
Designed by Richard Monkhouse of EMS, the Spectre is a hybrid video synthesizer, combining both analogue and digital techniques. It uses the EMS patchboard system to allow completely flexible connections between module inputs and outputs. The video signals are digital, but they are controlled by analogue voltages. The instrument includes a digital patchboard for image composition, and an analogue patchboard for motion control. The prototype was said to have been used to provide a projected light show for an early Tangerine Dream concert at the London Rainbow. This particular instrument is not part of the Grainger Museum Electronic Music Studio. It is currently on loan to the MESS Collection. It was recently rediscovered by David Chesworth, literally ‘under the bed’ of a friend, who had been minding it for the owners who had moved overseas.
Date
1974-1975
Format
Instrument