Vako Orchestron Optical Disc Playback Sampler

Official Optigan MERCH now available! https://optigan.threadless.com/ To purchase a sample CD with all the Orchestron sounds (as well as Optigan and Talentmaker sounds), please visit here: This is a demonstration of one of our Optigan disc titles. More details at https://optigan.com/shoptigan/

Here's a demo of all 8 original discs that were made for the Vako Orchestron. This keyboard, which is adapted from the Mattel Optigan, was introduced in 1975 by Dave VanKoevering. It was intended to be a competitor to the Mellotron, but it never really took off. Kraftwerk was a very early adopter of this instrument. I've included little examples of some of the well-known parts Kraftwerk used their Orchestron for back in the day.

My Orchestron is in fairly average working condition. You'll note that I had a bit of trouble with one of the high F keys. Also, note the substantial level of radio interference, which I've muted during disc changes.

Anyone interested in more information about the Orchestron and related instruments can find lots of stuff at my website, www.optigan.com.


Sound was recorded direct to a Zoom H2.