The first commercially successful digital synthesizer, the Yamaha DX7 was introduced in 1983 and completely changed the music industry. It makes use of cutting-edge FM (Frequency Modulation) synthesis, creating a unique, frequently glassy or metallic sound that typified the 1980s. Its distinctive sonic palette, 61 keys, and infamously difficult programming interface (despite the fact that it included numerous presets) made it a mainstay in pop, R&B, and movie soundtracks for many years.
