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Make Your Own Kind of Music
Omnichord OM-108
Top Three Questions:
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Read the full product review over at OMNICHORD HEAVEN
What is an Omnichord?
 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. |
You
can play accompaniment straight away, even if you have never
played a musical instrument before.
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!
The sound of the classic OM-84
is reproduced with analogue circuits.
We 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, we 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.
Equipped with both
retro and new tones.
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There are 10
tones…omni1/omni2/harp/celeste/A.piano/guitar/FMpiano/organ |
The OM-108 includes a
selection of timeless instrument tones that are both retro and
current.Layer function that
creates expression of sound.
 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. |
Updated rhythm selection with popular drum beats. (3)
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There are 10 kinds of
rhythm…rock1/rock2/slow rock/country/swing/disco/hip hop/funk/bossanova/waltz |
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. We have selected “usable”
rhythms that will allow you to play a wider variety of songs.
Adding
sus4 and add9 allows OM-108 to play 108 chords
 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. |
Sensitive strumplate
that fully expresses light touch playing.
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.
Drum pad on both chord
buttons and strumplate.
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.
Expand sound with MIDI
OUT
 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. |
Can be switched to
OM-84 drum kit.
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.
Play anytime,
anywhere.
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. |
The built-in speaker
can also be used as a monitor.
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.
Accessories
AC adapter 100-240V
AD1-1210A(100-120V)
AD3-1210A(220-240V)
Strap pin OSB-108
Gig Bag OGB-108