The History of VX-323
The story of the VX-323 Speech Synthesizer begins in 1985 with the research of electro-acoustical phoneticist Dr. Hans Geräusche. His studies at the Universität Wissenschaft und Technologie into speech generation led to many of the key algorithms that give VX-323 its unprecended clarity, expressiveness, and human-ness. Prior to his breakthroughs, speech synthesis required a mainframe and very patient listeners.
Making the Lavender Box
During this period, his colleague Rolf Tinker of Switzerland was performing in an art-punk band in local nightclubs, playing his home-made synthesizers. He immediately heard the possibilities of Dr. Geräusche's speech sounds as an electronic musical instrument. After discussions with both Dr. Geräusche and the legal department of the Universität, an agreement was reached to create and manufacture such a product. The venture was founded in 1988. About two years later, the first production unit was assembled by hand and shipped to the first customer.
Full Glottal Stop
The partnership of Geräusche and Tinker was fraught with personality conflicts and gross mismanagement. Unfortunately, the company dissolved after producing only fifty one VX-323 units, leaving bitter feelings and many creditors. Customers who had received their VX-323 units were thrilled to have received theirs; those on the waiting list who had put down deposits were disappointed. Still, the reputation of VX-323 drew many bands and composers to the few lucky studios offering their use.
Studios
During the production run of 1991-1992, many high-end professional recording studios purchased VX-323 units. Usage of VX-323 was included in clients' studio time. In fact, many bands booked their time based on the VX-323 availability. These studios included:
- Surf Studios (Nassau, Bahamas)
- Studio Victor Hugo (Paris, France)
- Snow White Sound (Chamonix, France)
- Klangenhaus (Berlin, Germany)
Many prominent universities around the world also bought units for their professors, students, and composers in residence.
Photographs
You can see VX-323 models featured in the following archival photographs.
Synth Museum
This particular VX-323 keyboard unit (serial number VX0024-03) appears in the top left area of the picture. The owners have kept it in good physical condition - there are no drink stains or cigarette burns on the unit. It was acquired during the bankruptcy proceedings of a large recording studio.
