 The Sonic System began life as research into real–time, computer–based audio production.The Audio Signal Processor (or ASP) hardware–based audio signal processor, designed by James A. Moorer, after work on the Hydra audio project at Stanford University’s CCRMA, was a proof of concept for what is now considered a digital audio workstation.The ASP's design started life in 1980 and was designed primarily for real–time, multichannel EQ and mixing.