hi all, first time here. (hope I've got the right sub-forum?)
I'm trying to get the name of a synth/sampler/DAW unit from back in the mid/late '80's, I think. It was a huge beast - an 88 note wooden-keyed kybd. in a beautiful wooden frame with a built-in computer/sequencer, etc. But what set it apart was the built-in 13" monitor (CRT) that sat atop it. It was designed to compete with the Synclavier and the Fairlight, and cost about as much as those two. My recollection is that it was the company's first effort - and sadly, their last.
Any thoughts?
name this synth/sampler/DAW?
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- rhino
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Re: name this synth/sampler/DAW?
Welcome to the board!
Here are two that come to mind:
PPG with optional Waveterm
Con Brio
Neither has 88 keys, though.
IIRC Fairlight brought out a revamped model that had a monitor on top - don't think any were sold.
The Roland S-50 sampler/workstation could have an optional monitor
The Kurzweil K250 was sometimes seen with a Macintosh on top
EDIT-----
Maybe found - only 76 keys, but look at the DK Synergy II+
Most were black Tolex, but a few walnut finish ones were made. IDK if the Kaypro computer could drive an external monitor or not.
Here are two that come to mind:
PPG with optional Waveterm
Con Brio
Neither has 88 keys, though.
IIRC Fairlight brought out a revamped model that had a monitor on top - don't think any were sold.
The Roland S-50 sampler/workstation could have an optional monitor
The Kurzweil K250 was sometimes seen with a Macintosh on top
EDIT-----
Maybe found - only 76 keys, but look at the DK Synergy II+
Most were black Tolex, but a few walnut finish ones were made. IDK if the Kaypro computer could drive an external monitor or not.
When the wise man points to the stars, the fool looks at the finger.
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williemyers
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Re: name this synth/sampler/DAW?
rhino....i *think* I found it!.....The McLeyvier!
http://www.synthmuseum.com/mcleyvier/mcleyvier01.html
whatta beast! what was really cool about it was it's ability to show notation on the screen, as you played. and remember, this was '81 - - pre-MIDI. what was not cool about it was the $30k pricetag
http://www.synthmuseum.com/mcleyvier/mcleyvier01.html
whatta beast! what was really cool about it was it's ability to show notation on the screen, as you played. and remember, this was '81 - - pre-MIDI. what was not cool about it was the $30k pricetag
- rhino
- Supporting Member!

- Posts: 2611
- Joined: Sat Aug 02, 2008 5:00 pm
- Real name: bill
- Gear: keepers:
Kurzweil K2500x
Ensoniq TS-12
Yamaha SY-99
Alesis QS-8
Roland JD-800
Roland JX-10
Akai AX-80
Ensoniq SQ-80
Korg DSS-1
Moog Mini
Fizmo - Location: kentucky hills
Re: name this synth/sampler/DAW?
OK, that's great! Kinda sad when you think of all the fantastic synths that never quite made it.
When the wise man points to the stars, the fool looks at the finger.
- Confucius
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