Korg T3

Back in 1989, this workstation hit the scene as the M1 on steroids, doubling the sample ROM to 8MB and packing in sounds that left the original feeling a bit lightweight.

It runs on AI2 synthesis with two digital oscillators per voice, a variable digital amplifier, three envelope generators, dual LFOs, and filters for shaping those PCM samples into everything from punchy TR-909 snares to glassy pads and gospel organs. The 61 velocity-sensitive, aftertouch-enabled keys feel responsive under your fingers, paired with a big backlit LCD for easy navigation through 100 programs and 100 combinations across 8-part multitimbrality and 16-voice polyphony. You'll find an 8-track sequencer holding up to 50,000 events, a 3.5-inch floppy drive, MIDI In/Out/Thru (plus extra Outs on some models), expansion slots for PCM cards, and two stereo effects processors offering 33 types like reverb and delay.

Players still hunt these down for the upgraded acoustic instruments and expansive presets that load M1 cards seamlessly, earning a loyal following despite the non-weighted action drawing occasional gripes from piano purists.