Farfisa TS 800 is an electronic organ produced by the Italian manufacturer Farfisa, likely in the late 1970s or early 1980s. While less famous than the 1960s "Combo Compact" series used by bands like Pink Floyd and The Beach Boys, the TS 800 represents a later era of Farfisa design that integrated more modern features like auto-accompaniment and improved portability. Key Characteristics Manufacturer ACI Farfisa
Enter the .
, originally known for accordions and later for the iconic "60s sound" combo organs. : The TS series (which includes the Farfisa Ts 800
Unlike the popular Farfisa Compact series (which featured rocker tabs for drawbar-like control), the TS 800 adopted a more "home organ" aesthetic with push-buttons, colored rockers, and a built-in amplifier and speakers. Despite this, professionals quickly adopted it for its unmatched ability to cut through a dense rock mix.
When discussing the golden age of combo organs, names like Vox Continental and Hammond B-3 often dominate the conversation. However, nestled in the shadow of these giants is a fierce, distinctive, and increasingly collectible Italian rival: the . Farfisa TS 800 is an electronic organ produced
and TS 900) was produced during the late 70s/early 80s transition when electronic organs began emulating Hammond organs and incorporating early digital or PCM drum samples. General Configuration
In an age of lightweight, sample-based digital keyboards, the Farfisa TS 800 stands as a monument to a time when "portable" meant "two people to lift it, three to get it up stairs." Its sound is imperfect: it drifts out of tune when warm, its percussion section clicks audibly, and the rhythm unit sounds nothing like a real drummer. Yet, those very imperfections give it soul. , originally known for accordions and later for
: Some higher-end TS models were surprisingly forward-thinking, offering full MIDI compatibility to control different channels for the manuals and pedalboard.