Product Description

This Omnichord is in excellent condition with every function working just as it should. We've tested it with batteries and 12v adapter but neither is included. We are including a very nice hard sided case along with the manual, music book and cleaning cloth.

About the OM-27

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 (allegedly), the Omnichord has 27 chords grouped into three rows: major, minor and seventh. The ergonomics are much improved over the Tronichord/Portachord with the 27 tactile chord buttons located centrally.

The Sonic Strings are located just to the right and turned by 90 degrees. This made for a far more comfortable playing experience. The "Instant Off" touch pad is located at the top right hand side of the strumplate which silenced the Omnichord. 

The built in speaker is located on the right of the Strumplate whilst the new control panel is on the left of the chord buttons. Like the Tronichord, only one sound is provided for the Stumplate (Harp) however, a new adjustable sustain means the instrument can be played percussively or like a stringed instrument.

The 6 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 that has lasted to the present day.

The OM-27 was big news and to celebrate in the United Kingdom, Sir Ian Botham became the face of the initial launch. (See Omnimedia)

Although the metal touch sensitive plate could be played by hand, the early version OM-27 (left) 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 no longer required. One could retro fit the OM27 with the newly designed plate (right) 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.