CASIO

This Japanese company took a tentative step into guitar synthesizers in 1987. The 06-20 (for Digital Guitar) had its own synthesizer, amp, and speaker built-in. The MG-SOO and MG-SlO MIDI six-strings were more conventional instruments for the serious player. Roland had paved the way in guitar synthesis, but in 1988 came Casio's superior PG-380, offering a more player-friendly, full-fledged alternative. This Fender-influenced, Floyd Rose-equipped solidbody had all the technical bits arranged in a very accessible manner. The less expensive PG-300 debuted in 1990, sporting a Strat-style pickup layout and vibrato unit. Casio's final guitar synth came three years later with the Simplified and shortlived 6-393.