EML ElectroComp 200

Born in 1969 as Electronic Music Laboratories' debut synthesizer, this modular beast was crafted partly for school kids in Connecticut's Pilot Electronic Project, sparking early electronic music education with its hands-on patching approach.

At its core, it packs three voltage-controlled oscillators delivering sawtooth, square, and noise waveforms, capable of ring modulation, sync, and FM for wild timbres. A pair of two-pole lowpass and highpass filters shape the subtractive synthesis, paired with a single AD envelope generator, LFO, sample & hold, and that classic spring reverb for lush, vintage tails. Over 60 patch points on the expansive front panel invite deep experimentation, including a microphone input for processing vocals, mono audio out, and CV/gate connectivity—often paired with the EML-300 controller's quirky calculator-style keys and 16 voltage knobs for precise sequencing.

Vintage players cherish its raw, aggressive bass lines, leads, and FX, with the spring reverb standing out as exceptionally characterful. Filters lack resonance, which some find limiting, but the overall patchability and unique voice keep it a cult favorite among modular enthusiasts.