Back in 1987, this synth pioneered Linear Arithmetic synthesis, blending short PCM attack samples with classic digital waveforms to nail realistic instrument transients in ways pure analog or samplers couldn't touch. It kicked off a sound that defined late-80s pop and new age, powering hits with its shimmering pads and ethereal layers.
At its core, LA synthesis drives 16-voice polyphony across 32 digital oscillators, structured into two partials per tone for complex layering—think 100 onboard PCM waveforms, including 47 dedicated attacks, feeding into time-variant filters (TVF) with low-pass resonance and bandpass options, plus five-stage envelopes for filter and amplitude (TVA). Three LFOs modulate pitch, pulse width, or more, with assignable depth via velocity or aftertouch, while built-in effects deliver stereo chorus (eight modes like flanging and Dimension), reverb, delay, and 2-band EQ. The 61-key velocity-sensitive keyboard with channel aftertouch feels solid and responsive, paired with a joystick for pitch bend and dynamic timbre shifts, master volume knob, transpose, and portamento controls. It's housed in a sleek 38-inch wide, 3.7-inch high chassis weighing about 23 pounds, with a backlit 2x40 LCD, data slider, 54 buttons, and dual 1/4-inch stereo outs—plus 64 patch memory expandable via cards.
Players still chase that signature glassy sparkle today, praising its vast sound palette from fat brass to wild effects, though some note the deep editing needs the optional PG-1000 programmer for hands-on tweaks. A true vintage gem that rewards experimentation.
