Suzuki has introduced the Omnichord OM-108, a new electronic auto harp, as part of its 70th-anniversary celebrations. The Omnichord, akin to the resurgence of vinyl records and cassette tapes, has experienced a revival among retro instrument enthusiasts and a new generation of musicians.
The latest offering, the Omnichord OM-108, comes as a successor to the 1999 Qchord QC-1 and emerges amidst the instrument’s growing popularity in music, animated media, and online platforms. The Omnichord, originated in 1981 with the OM-27 version, is a unique stringed instrument that plays chords and notes by sliding fingers over a touch-sensitive strumplate rather than using traditional strings.
Pop culture has embraced the Omnichord in various forms over the years, including its appearance in the 2001 hit “Clint Eastwood” by Gorillaz and in the animated series “Adventure Time,” which aired from 2010 to 2018. This has sparked increased interest and driven up secondhand prices, with devices regularly fetching upwards of $500.
The new OM-108 is capable of playing 108 chords and features the beloved analog synthesizer sound from the OM-84 model. Furthermore, when not functioning in chord mode, it boasts a 20-key keyboard and drum kit capabilities. Suzuki has also incorporated 10 instruments utilizing PCM sound synthesis, including the traditional harp and piano, as well as a modern FM piano. Musicians can choose from 10 rhythm patterns that range from contemporary hip hop beats to classical styles. With the MIDI out port, users can connect with other instruments and recording software for enhanced musical production.
For convenience, the Omnichord OM-108 operates on 8 AA batteries for up to 8 hours or through an AC adapter. It comes with line out and headphones jacks and offers an optional strap for easy portability. Weighing in at 2.6 pounds and with dimensions of 18.0 x 9.45 x 2.04 inches, it is both lightweight and compact.
At this time, Suzuki has not disclosed the price for the Omnichord OM-108, but the model is expected to hit the market in July 2024.
Played by swiping a finger across its vertical strumboard and pressing chord buttons, the Omnichord OM-108 is set to join the lineage of innovative and beloved instruments from Suzuki that have captured the imaginations of musicians for decades.
