Models
Every model, most significant first.
16 models
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Fairlight CMI
Digital audio workstation
Synthesizer · Australia
The Fairlight CMI (Computer Musical Instrument), introduced in 1979, was one of the first commercial digital sampling workstations. Pairing a sampler with a light-pen computer interface and the influential 'Page R' sequencer, it transformed 1980s pop production despite its very high cost.
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Korg MS-20
Patchable semi-modular monophonic analog synthesizer
Synthesizer · Japan
The Korg MS-20, released in 1978, is a patchable semi-modular monophonic analog synthesizer with two oscillators and a distinctive dual filter capable of aggressive resonance. Its hands-on patch bay and external signal processor made it a hugely influential and enduring instrument.
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ELKA Rhapsody
Polyphonic multi-orchestral synthesizer
Synthesizer · Italy
The Elka Rhapsody is a polyphonic string synthesizer made by the Italian company Elka in the 1970s. A popular and roadworthy string machine, it produces violin- and viola-style ensemble sounds and was widely used by touring musicians.
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EMS VCS 3
Synthesizer model
Synthesizer · United Kingdom
The EMS VCS 3, released in 1969, is a compact British modular analog synthesizer that routes signals through a distinctive pin-matrix patch board instead of cords. Portable and idiosyncratic, it was embraced by experimental and progressive musicians and is one of the most iconic early synthesizers.
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Yamaha CS-80
Flagship CS Series polyphonic analog synthesizer
Synthesizer · Japan
The flagship Yamaha CS Series polyphonic analog synthesizer; Yamaha's official history says it debuted in 1977 with eight-note polyphony.
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EMS Synthi AKS
Synthesizer model
Synthesizer · United Kingdom
The EMS Synthi AKS is a briefcase synthesizer that adds a built-in touch-sensitive keyboard and a simple sequencer to the Synthi A, combining EMS's pin-matrix synthesis with self-contained performance control.
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Korg MS-10
Musical synthesizer
Synthesizer · Japan
The Korg MS-10, released in 1978, is a compact patchable monophonic analog synthesizer with a single oscillator and Korg's characterful filter. Part of the semi-modular MS series, it offers a small patch bay for routing and remains popular for gritty bass and effects.
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EDP Wasp
Analogue music synthesiser
Synthesizer · United Kingdom
The EDP Wasp, released in 1978 by Electronic Dream Plant, is a compact, inexpensive hybrid synthesizer with digital oscillators and an analog filter. Its distinctive black-and-yellow touch keyboard and aggressive sound made it a memorable and influential budget instrument.
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ARP Omni
Polyphonic analog synthesizer
Synthesizer · United States
The ARP Omni, released in 1975, is a polyphonic synthesizer that combined a popular string-ensemble section with a polyphonic synth and a bass voice. One of ARP's best-selling instruments, its lush strings were widely used in 1970s pop and rock.
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Polymoog
Synthesizer model
Synthesizer · United States
The Polymoog, produced from 1975, was Moog's early fully polyphonic synthesizer, using divide-down organ-style circuitry so that every key could sound at once. It offered preset voices and resonant filters, and its distinctive 'Vox Humana' patch became iconic.
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Multimoog
Monophonic analog synthesizer
Synthesizer · United States
The Multimoog is a monophonic analog synthesizer Moog introduced in 1978 as a more capable sibling to the Micromoog. It offers two oscillators, a pressure-sensitive keyboard for added expression, and the signature Moog filter.
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Moog Sonic Six
Duophonic analog synthesizer
Synthesizer · United States
The Moog Sonic Six is a portable duophonic analog synthesizer produced in the 1970s, housed in a briefcase-style case with a built-in speaker. Its two oscillators allow two notes at once and a wide range of modulation for leads and effects.
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Micromoog
Monophonic analog synthesizer
Synthesizer · United States
The Micromoog is a compact, affordable monophonic analog synthesizer Moog produced from 1975, featuring a single oscillator, the classic Moog ladder filter, and a ribbon controller for expressive pitch effects.
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Moog Prodigy
Synthesizer model
Synthesizer · United States
The Moog Prodigy is a compact two-oscillator monophonic analog synthesizer produced from 1979. Designed as an affordable, easy-to-use instrument, its punchy bass and lead sounds and Moog filter made it a popular entry point to the Moog sound.
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Moog Satellite
Monophonic analog synthesizer
Synthesizer · United States
The Moog Satellite is a preset-oriented monophonic analog synthesizer from the 1970s, designed as an affordable combo-style instrument with a selection of ready-made voices plus some hands-on control.
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Moog modular synthesizer
Modular analog synthesizer
Synthesizer · United States
The Moog modular synthesizer is the pioneering line of voltage-controlled modular systems Robert Moog began building in the mid-1960s. Assembled from separate oscillator, filter, amplifier, and controller modules connected by patch cords, these large systems established the architecture and sound of subtractive synthesis and shaped electronic music for decades.