Generalmusic

Generalmusic was an Italian company specializing in musical instruments like digital and acoustic pianos, synthesizers, and workstations. Established in 1987, they operated under three lines: GEM for instruments, LEM for studio equipment, and ELKA for electric organs/synthesizers. The company released early models such as the WS series (1990) and WX series (1993), which introduced General MIDI support and vintage synth sounds. They later developed the S series synthesizers and the RealPiano Expander (1990s-2000), a digital piano module with realistic sound but prone to LCD issues. In 2006, this was succeeded by the GEM RP-X using DRAKE technology.

From 2006 onward, Generalmusic launched the Genesys series with advanced features and entry-level models like GK and WK. Their Promega digital pianos gained significant attention. Despite financial success initially, they ceased operations in 2009 and filed for bankruptcy in 2011. However, Soundion Oy Ltd acquired their brands in 2014, planning a relaunch with products like the Synthex reissue via crowdfunding, which ultimately failed. As of 2021, Generalmusic continues to manufacture digital pianos using advanced technology under the Gem Promega 2+ series.

In summary, Generalmusic's history spans innovation in musical instruments, facing production and financial challenges, and later attempts at relaunching products under new ownership.