# Quirky Strummable Synths This Reimagined Electronic Synth is a Throwback to the 1980s By Rahul Kalvapalle | Published 2024-01-27 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/electronic-synth References: [synthanatomy](https://synthanatomy.com/2024/01/suzuki-omnichord-om-108-the-instrument-with-the-gorillaz-pattern-is-returning.html) & [suzuki-music.co.jp](https://www.suzuki-music.co.jp/special/omnichord_om-108/en/index.html)  Lovers of music tech history will recognize the quirky and innovative Omnichord as one of the most unique instruments of the early 1980s, a fact that [Suzuki Music](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/record-factory) is clearly aware of as it looks to introduce the latest and greatest version of this [novel electronic synth](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/oscalate). Dubbed the 'OM-108,' this electronic synth is named for the fact that its buttons allow combinations that make up 108 possible chords including standard major and minor chords to sus4, add9 and diminished variants. Musicians are able to press down buttons to create a chord and then use their finger on the [touch-sensitive strumming area](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/roli-airwave) to create a wide variety of tones This reimagined electronic synth comes with as many as 10 rhythm patterns, automated bass accompaniments and 10 different strum sounds including guitar, piano, harp and a couple of signature sounds from the early-1980s instrument. Image Credit: Suzuki ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 4.1/10 - Popularity: 58% | Activity: 43% | Freshness: 21% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Gadgets](https://www.trendhunter.com/gadgets) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Retro-revival Synths:** The latest version of the Omnichord is a throwback to the 1980s, appealing to music tech enthusiasts who appreciate vintage instruments. - **Multi-function Synths:** The OM-108 electronic synth offers 108 possible chords and 10 different strum sounds, giving musicians a wide range of tones and options for creativity. - **Intuitive Music Tech:** With touch-sensitive strumming area and automated accompaniments, the reimagined synth provides an intuitive and user-friendly music-making experience. ### Where This Applies - **Music Technology:** The reimagined Omnichord OM-108 showcases innovation in music technology, catering to musicians who appreciate unique and versatile instruments. - **Instrument Manufacturing:** Suzuki Music's release of the new OM-108 electronic synth taps into the demand for retro instruments and offers an opportunity for instrument manufacturers to explore similar concepts. - **Entertainment Gadgets:** The quirky and innovative design of the OM-108 opens up possibilities for entertainment gadget companies to create unique and nostalgic electronic synthesizers. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Stackable Modular Synths](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/3tonic.md) - [Multifunctional Music Gadgets](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/chorda.md) - [Electronic String Instruments](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/harmoni.md) - [Connected Musical Chord Keyboards](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/chord-machine-akt01.md) - [Interactive Display-Equipped Synthesizers](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/love-hultn-x-lirona-synthboi.md) - [Hybrid Music Instruments](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/phase8.md) - [Compactly Portable Theremins](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/theremins.md) - [Thrifty Hardware Synths](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hardware-synth.md) - [Accessible Synthesizer Lines](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/electronic-musical-instrument.md)