3-voice synthesis (each voice could be a different waveform)
4 waveforms: triangle, sawtooth, pulse (with variable width), noise
Programmable ADSR envelope (Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release)
Ring modulation and oscillator sync
Analog filter (12dB/octave, multiple modes)

 

 

The result: Warmth, character, and expressiveness that digital synths of the era couldn't touch. It could do bass, leads, arpeggios, percussion, even crude sampling. People got synth-level sounds from a computer chip.

Composers like Rob Hubbard, Martin Galway, Chris Hülsbeck became rock stars in the community. The Commodore 64 wasn't just playing music - it was an instrument.

Music is still composed on the original Commodore 64. It's still used on stage for live performances. Modern musicians still sample it.

We're proud to include a selection of our favorites.