The Eminent 310 Unique is a monophonic string synthesizer that was originally designed and built by the Dutch company Eminent BV. While the company is not widely known today, they made a significant impact on the music industry with the development of this iconic synthesizer.
One of the standout features of the Eminent 310 Unique is its sophisticated string section. Unlike other string synthesizers of its time, the Eminent 310 Unique utilized a combination of divide-down oscillators and phase-shifted delay lines to create its signature sound. As a result, it produced rich and warm string tones that were highly sought after. Its ability to mimic a full string section with a single keyboard made it an ideal choice for many musicians.
Another remarkable aspect of the Eminent 310 Unique is its expressive touch-sensitive keyboard. Unlike traditional keyboards, which only respond to the speed at which a key is pressed, the Eminent 310 Unique’s touch-sensitive keyboard responded to both the velocity and pressure applied to each key. This allowed for a greater level of musical expression, making it a favorite among keyboardists who wanted to add nuance and emotion to their performances.
The Eminent 310 Unique also introduced innovative controls and features that were ahead of its time. It featured a vibrato section with adjustable depth and speed controls, allowing for easy modulation of the string sound. Additionally, it had a unique filter section called the “Orchestra” which offered adjustable cutoff and resonance parameters. These advanced controls gave musicians the ability to shape and personalize their sound, making the Eminent 310 Unique both versatile and powerful.
Despite its initial success and critical acclaim, the Eminent 310 Unique faced several challenges. The rising popularity of digital synthesizers in the 1980s led to a decline in sales, and Eminent BV eventually went bankrupt. As a result, the production of the Eminent 310 Unique came to an end, making it a rare and highly sought after piece of musical history.
Today, the Eminent 310 Unique continues to be celebrated by musicians, collectors, and synth enthusiasts around the . Its distinctive sound has been featured in numerous recordings, and its cult following only continues to grow. Many modern musicians value the Eminent 310 Unique for its character and vintage charm, seeing it as a testament to the golden age of analog synthesizers.
If you’re fortunate enough to own an Eminent 310 Unique, take good care of it. Due to its scarcity, finding replacement parts or servicing can be challenging. However, the enduring popularity of this synthesizer means that there is a passionate community of users who are eager to share their knowledge and support.
In conclusion, the Eminent 310 Unique is a remarkable piece of musical history. From its warm string tones to its innovative features, it remains a testament to the creativity and craftsmanship of its time. Whether you’re a vintage synth enthusiast or simply intrigued by the world of analog synthesizers, the Eminent 310 Unique is a true gem that deserves recognition and appreciation.