New England Digital1977 (historically pivotal through the 80s)16-bit / 50kHz (later revisions, sampling option)Workstation$$$$Collector-Grade($3,000+)
New England Digital Synclavier
Serious collectors and studios wanting one of the two systems that defined digital music production in the early 80s.
Find on ReverbUsed-gear listings, graded conditionCheck prices on eBayBroader inventory, live auctions
Strengths
- A genuine rival to the Fairlight CMI in historical significance, combining FM synthesis with (later) real sampling in one system
- Used on an enormous number of iconic 80s commercial recordings, giving it real, documented production history
- Modular, expandable architecture let studios grow a base system substantially over years of use
Trade-offs
- Extraordinarily expensive even when new, and astronomically rare and costly to acquire or restore today
- A full system requires genuine specialist knowledge to operate and maintain, well beyond typical home-studio experience
Full Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Brand | New England Digital |
| Model | Synclavier |
| Era | 1977 (historically pivotal through the 80s) |
| Typical Price Tier | Collector-Grade ($3,000+) |
| Sample Rate / Bit Depth | 16-bit / 50kHz (later revisions, sampling option) |
| Max Sample Time | ~2s |
| Sequencer Tracks | 16 |
| Pads | None |
| Storage | Hard disk (later revisions) |
| MIDI Equipped | Yes |
| Onboard Filter/Effects | No |
| Polyphony | 32 voices |
A relative used-market guide, not a live quote — real prices vary by condition, region, and timing. Check the Reverb/eBay links on any item for current listings.
Similar Workstation
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This deckNew England Digital Synclavier
Match50
Audio Fidelity55
Flexibility70
Ease of Use25
Tonal Neutrality48
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