Omnichord

The Omnichord is an electronic musical instrument introduced in 1981 by the Suzuki Musical Instrument Corporation. It is characterized by its strumplate, which allows users to create rhythmic accompaniment, and its chord buttons, which select different chords to be played. The instrument is often categorized as an autoharp-like synthesizer.

The core functionality of the Omnichord involves pressing a chord button while simultaneously stroking the strumplate. This action triggers a synthesized sound corresponding to the selected chord. The strumplate is touch-sensitive, allowing the user to control the volume and articulation of the sound through the speed and pressure of their strokes.

Several models of the Omnichord have been produced, including the OM-27, OM-36, OM-84, and the QChord (sometimes stylized as "QChord"). Each model offered variations in sound palettes, rhythm patterns, and additional features such as MIDI connectivity in later versions.

The Omnichord gained a cult following amongst musicians and hobbyists due to its unique interface and ease of use. It is particularly popular for its distinctive sound, often described as lo-fi and charmingly retro. Its relative simplicity makes it accessible to beginners, while its diverse sonic capabilities allow for creative exploration by more experienced musicians. The instrument has been used in various genres, including indie pop, electronic music, and folk.

The term "Omnichord" is sometimes used generically to refer to similar instruments that feature a combination of chord buttons and a strumming interface, regardless of the manufacturer.