First issue in an A6 format zine series by Oli Freke who in 2021 wrote the book “Synthesizer Evolution: From Analogue to Digital (and Back)” and made fame with his amazingly beautiful, ultra-detailed drawings of synths. The illustrations celebrate the visual qualities of synthesizers – not only have they produced the sound of the future, but they have also looked like the future since the earliest days.

The invention of the synthesizer in the 1960s changed musical culture and music production forever, giving musicians whole new worlds of sound to play with. Vintage Synths celebrates that invention and its subsequent history by picking out 46 of the most influential, important or most interesting synths from 1939 – 1998. They represent the introduction of a new technology, had a particular impact, or maybe even formed the basis of entirely new genres.

Explore the most legendary synthesizers ever created, including the Minimoog, ARP 2600, Yamaha DX7, Roland Jupiter 8 and more, with detailed descriptions and the stories behind their development.

Whether you’re a seasoned synthesizer player, a music producer, or simply an enthusiast, Vintage Synths is a valuable resource that offers both technical depth and historical context.

About the Author

Oli Freke is a London-based musician, artist and author who has had a lifelong passion for analogue synthesizers and electronic music. He has spent twenty years in the music industry, variously supporting the Human League on tour with his electro band Cassette Electrik and writing music for television as well as the dance scene.

52 pages, staple bound, A6 format.