E-mu Modular System

[2] E-mu claims the Modular System's polyphonic keyboard and sequencer were the first to be controlled by a microprocessor, and they patented the technology at the time.

[4] The term "modular" in the product name refers to the customizable set of "modules" available for the synthesizer.

[2] Users create sounds by manipulating patch cords to direct the signal through the modules above the keyboard.

Through all of the combinations available, the Modular System could produce any popular synthesizer sound in use at the time.

It also had a unique aesthetic, featuring blue-lined modules rather than the traditional black and aluminum panels.