The Roland D-50 is a digital synthesizer released in 1987, known for its unique sound engine that combines sample playback with synthesis. It features a 61-key keyboard and offers a wide range of sounds, making it popular among musicians and producers in various genres. One of the D-50's standout features is its ability to create lush, evolving sounds, often referred to as "LA synthesis." This technology allows for complex textures and rich timbres, contributing to its iconic status in the music industry, particularly in the late 1980s and early 1990s.