The prototype Synclavier (1975) was developed at Dartmouth College, New Hampshire, USA as a self contained digital synthesiser based on a network of integrated circuits and micro-processors. In 1976, the New England Digital Corporation was created to market the machine.

The user was shielded from the software complexities by a comprehensive push-button keypad, later models had an added VDU, QWERTY keyboard and hard disk. A touch strip allowed continuous pitch control.

The first version appeared in 1979 but was soon replaced by the Synclavier II (pictured) with a new 'partial timbre' sound editing feature, built-in FM synthesis and an external hard disk storage option. In 1984, a new model was re-introduced with a full-sized and weighted keyboard with velocity and aftertouch, 32 outputs and digital recording.