Why is it that so much digital sound technology is invested in creating algorithms to merely re-create the sound of vintage analogue equipment of the 1960s and 70s? This talk explores some of the innovative studio techniques adopted by composers Delia Derbyshire, Beatriz Ferreyra, Eliane Radigue and Teresa Rampazzi, who were also leading players in the studios of early electronic sound research. These composers devised heuristic methods to re-invent audio technology, that was previously only used as broadcasting equipment, for the earliest experiments in making new electronic sounds and music.