Paia started in the late 70s. The Gnome was the first ribbon sound synthesizer of its kind. It was used by many of the musicians groups at the time. Example The Cars. Many other synthesizer products were designed and created. Most were sold as kits to hobbyists. The original designer, John Simonton, passed in 2005. The company continued by its employees and is still around. Check it out at Paia.com.