The Akai SG01v is a ROMpler, meaning that it plays prerecorded samples stored on a ROM chip, as opposed to generating sound through onboard signal generators. The unit was produced by Akai in 1995. It is housed in a 1U half-rack chassis and can be controlled through General MIDI messages. The SG01v has 32 voice polyphony and 16 part multi-timbrality. Considering the technology of the day, the SG01v reproduces with surprising fidelity the sounds of even older analogue synthesizers, as well as two drum kits. The "V" designation in the model name denotes "vintage" sounds. The model line also includes an SG01k ("K" for "keys"), which was strictly a General MIDI module, and an SG01p ("P" for "piano").