The instrument
The Akai VX90 Midi Sound Module was launched in 1986 at the same time as the similarly built AX73 keyboard. It is a polyphonic, 6-voice analog synthesizer with digital control functions. The device was inexpensive as it was equipped with electronic modules for one complete synthesizer voice each. Six Curtis CEM3394 chips form the core of the device. Akai only developed a limited number of synthesizers; the company specialized in samplers, with which it dominated the market.
Details
The VX90 has an auto-tune function, a VCF low-pass/hip-pass filter and an envelope section as well as a memory capacity for up to 100 patches. It can be played polyphonically or in unison mode. The Akai S-612, S-900 and S-950 samplers can be connected to the VX90 and their samples can be run through the analog filter and envelope sections.
In addition to the three waveforms square, triangle and sawtooth, the oscillator also generates a mixed form of sawtooth in the positive amplitude and triangle in the negative amplitude, which is suitable for basses. The VCOaPW parameter, a pulse width modulation, can be used to modify the sound significantly. Pink noise can be added to the VCO or used instead of the waveform.
(Source: Amazona)