Korg Lambda ES50 (1979–1982)
A polyphonic string synthesizer with AI2 synthesis, 48 full-sized keys, and built-in speakers, released in 1979.
Overview
The Korg Lambda ES50 is a polyphonic string synthesizer released in 1979, designed for musicians seeking rich ensemble textures with immediate playability. Marketed as "Korg's Solina," it features a 61-key keyboard with synth-weighted, full-size keys and touch sensitivity, though it does not include aftertouch. The instrument produces sound using AI2 synthesis and offers 300 onboard sounds, excluding acoustic piano or real-world sounds, with no sound editing capability. It includes built-in speakers and an amplifier, housed in a sleek wooden case with an orange fascia.
The Lambda ES50 supports fully polyphonic and includes MIDI connectivity, making it one of the earlier synths to integrate digital communication. It runs on AC power only and lacks battery operation. Control options include a sustain/damper pedal and an expression pedal, but it does not have a soft pedal. There is no built-in recorder, sequencer, accompaniment system, or tutorial functionality.
Specifications
| Number of Keys | 61 |
| Key Weight | Synth |
| Key Size | Full |
| Touch Sensitive | yes |
| Aftertouch | no |
| Number of Voices | 300 |
| Polyphony | 32 |
| Sound Generation | AI2 synthesis |
| Piano Sounds | no |
| Real World Sounds | no |
| Sounds Editable | no |
| Accompaniments | no |
| Recorder/Sequencer | no |
| Tutorials | no |
| MIDI | yes |
| USB | yes |
| Tablet Connectivity | no |
| AC Power | yes |
| Batteries | no |
| Speakers | yes |
| Audio Out | yes |
| Audio In | no |
| Sustain Pedal | yes |
| Soft Pedal | no |
| Expression Pedal | yes |
Design
The Lambda ES50 features a sleek wooden case with an orange fascia and includes a built-in amplifier and speakers. It uses AI2 synthesis for sound generation and is powered by AC.
Context
The Korg Lambda ES50 was released in 1979 alongside other Korg models such as the CX-3 Delta SAS-20. It is described as bringing ensemble-style sounds to the forefront and was aimed at musicians who wanted to create and modify their own sounds. It shares its release era with synths like the Korg Polysix, Roland Juno-6, Roland Jupiter-8, and Yamaha CS-80.
Market
As of 2026, used Korg Lambda ES50 units and spare parts can be found on eBay, reflecting its 47-year age. Service manuals and repair information are available through third-party sources.
eBay Listings
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Related Models
- Korg 700 (1974-1978)
- Korg Monotribe (2011)
- Korg MS-10 (1977-1983)
- Korg Poly-61 (1982-1984)
- Korg Mono/Poly (1981-1984)
- ARP Solus (1975-1976)
- Moog Minimoog Voyager (2002-2015)
- Roland RS-09 (1978-1983)
- Yamaha CS-80 (1977-1980)
- ARP 2600C (1978-1981)