Best Professional Synths & Workstations from Yamaha. A Yamaha synthesizer has a rich collection of analog/as acoustic sounds and gives you control over every parameter (voice, style and effects) during live performances. Some of the models include features perfect for integrating with your studio setup;
you can use Yamaha synth/workstation for any type of music production!
Introduction
Yamaha has been making keyboard instruments since 1887 and released the SY-1 synthesizer in 1974, followed by the the DX7 in 1993. Today, Yamaha is one of the leaders in synthesizers and the company invests considerable amount of time and money on research and development in sound design.
Yamaha’s current lineup of synthesizers include the new Yamaha MONTAGE Series, the portable reface CS and reface DX mini synths. The more recent Yamaha MODX series features a huge variety of sounds, along with FX and customisable control.
Whether you compose, create or perform, Yamaha Music Synthesizers deliver all the musical power and creative control you need.
Yamaha Synthesizers are consistently chosen by musicians for music in all kinds of genres, thanks to the realistic acoustic sounds, and cutting-edge synthesized sounds on Yamaha synths. It has features that gives you total control over your sound. Most Yamaha synths also include special patterns that provide full rhythm backing for your live performance and song creation.
Comparison Chart
Feel free to checkout the wide range of Yamaha keyboard workstations that give you complete control over the sounds, styles and effects during live performances. Yamaha workstations can also be used as controllers, perfect for studio work.
- Yamaha Montage 6: High-end synth (Motif and DX rolled in one). Create any sound, and control it with the Super Knob.
- Yamaha MODX6: Lightweight Keyboard Synthesizer, packed with cutting-edge synth sounds and technology
- Yamaha MX61 v2: Entry level Yamaha Keyboard synth, 1000+ Motif-derived sounds, easy integration with computer or iOS device. Lightweight & compact.
The 88-key Yamaha synths perfect for those who want a combination of piano and killer synth features.
Best Yamaha Synthesizers
Yamaha Montage Keyboard Synthesizer
High-end synthesizers from Yamaha. The Yamaha Montage is like a Motif and the DX rolled into one.
Features dynamic control, massive sound creation and streamlined workflow. Combines AMW2 and FM-X sound engines. Create any sound and control it with the expressive Super Knob.
Everything you need in one instrument – high-quality sounds, arpeggiators, recording features, rhythmic patterns, versatile effects.
Available in 61 keys, 76 keys and 88 keys.
If you were a fan of the Motif and the DX, you will love the Montage.
Yamaha MODX Keyboard Synthesizer
Lightweight Keyboard Synthesizer, packed with cutting-edge synth sounds and technology.
The MODX sound engine uses the same technology that powers the flagship MONTAGE. AWM2 (Advanced Wave Memory 2) sample and synthesis engine and a pure FM-X (Frequency Modulation) synthesizer for amazing sound playback and complex sound design. Create unique sounds that your music demands.
Motion Control lets you bring the sophistication of music production automation to real-time live performance.
Available in 61 keys, 76 keys and 88 keys.
Yamaha MX (v2) Keyboard synth
Yamaha MX has a practical design and is very lightweight, perfect for the gigging musician.
Its cheaper compared to the other options mentioned here, but comes with all the sounds, effects, and performance features that a professional would require.
And it weighs only 10.6 pounds (the 61-key model), easy to take it from home to stage or the studio.
1000+ Motif-derived sounds editable right on the keyboard, easy integration with computer or iOS device (5-pin MIDI, audio, and USB I/O).
Use it as a controller in the studio to control DAWs and virtual instruments.
Steinberg Cubase AI software is included, so start making music right away.
Available in 61, 76, 88 keys.
Yamaha MOXF6 & MOXF8 Music Production Synthesizer Keyboards
A combination of the MOTIF XS sound engine, a MIDI controller and advanced multi-channel USB audio computer integration, the MOXF8 is one of the most advanced Yamaha synths ever.
One of the most powerful and affordable Yamaha music workstations ever, the MOXF6 features a MOTIF XS sound engine, a MIDI controls, and multi-channel USB audio computer integration. Read more…
More Yamaha Synthesizers
Yamaha MM Series Synthesizers
Using the same sounds as the MOTIF, the Yamaha MM6 and MM8 were quite popular, these keyboards have now been phased out. Read more…You may checkout the Yamaha MX series instead.
Yamaha S-Series Synthesizer
The S90 XS Music Synthesizer and the Yamaha S70XS synthesizers were popular stage pianos at one time, before being phased out. Read more
The Various Offerings
Synthesizers, typically referred to as synths, are devices used to create different sounds. As opposed to other conventional instruments including arrangers, these can be used to create a variety of unique sounds / timbres.
These are typically used by professional musicians to help them perform onstage or create unique stuff in the studio, and usually cost much more than the arranger keyboards that most beginners and intermediate players use.
Yamaha, as a brand, is known more for its arrangers and pianos, but with the Motif, its popularity in the synthesizer segment started to increase. There are many who would still argue that Yamaha doesn’t make real pro-stuff keyboards, compared to say a Nord, but the fact is that Yamaha does have an impressive line-up of synths. Besides keyboard based synths, they also make software synths for iPhones and iPads.
The Yamaha Motif is the flagship synthesizer workstation from this brand, but then not everybody may be able to afford it, and in certain cases a toned down version could be more apt.
And that is the reason Yamaha has a range of other synths, which could suit your budget and even requirements.
Most of these come with MOTIF sounds, are easy to use yet provides comprehensive controls, comes with plenty of effects, and come with bundled software and editors.
Some of these are quite lightweight, and the ones with built-in sequencer can be used to quickly build up your musical ideas as quickly as possible.
Here are their main offerings.
Yamaha MM6 & MM8
The Yamaha MM6 (aka Mini Mo) is a good beginner synthesizer, and for around 500 bucks you get a synth that comes bundled with Cubase.
It does come with Motif Sounds, an on-board sequencer and comes with several Real-time Control Knobs.
If you have always played an arranger and want to upgrade to a serious keyboard, the MM6 can be a good option, and can also be used for gigging or even in the studio.
If you want to quickly give shape to your musical ideas, you’ll appreciate the built-in sequencer. Overall, this is a great, all-in-one, affordable product for creating music.
You even have the option of going in for the 88-key graded hammer action keyboard.
Yamaha MOX6 & MOX8
The MOX6 synth (61-keys) and the MOX8 (88-keys) gives more advanced features compared to the Yamaha MM series; it comes with a built-in USB Audio Interface, besides providing DAW and VST Control, on-board sequencing, and the DAW / VST software bundle.
If you are new to Yamaha however, it could take some time getting used to the various features. And if you don’t use Cubase, Logic, Sonar, or the more popular ones, you may have to spend lot of time figuring out the integration with the DAW.
Yamaha S70XS & S90XS (2300 to 2500)
This is an excellent blend of piano and synthesizer, with the S70XS having 76 weighted hammer keys and the S90XS having 88 weighted hammer keys.
A bit on the heavier side, these do not come with built-in speakers and not even a sequencer. But you would anyways do all the sequencing on your computer.
In terms of features, you get a microphone Input which makes it perfect for live performance. Other useful features include USB Flash Drive Recording, and DAW Controls that let you use it both as a master keyboard and a tone generator. The Yamaha S70XS & S90XS are perfect for the piano players looking for a synth!
Yamaha Keyboard Synthesizers
Yamaha is a leader in producing recording gear, including keyboard synthesizers. Synthesizers are commonly used in popular music with almost every artist using one in their recordings. Yamaha’s synth lineup includes several great synthesizers, including the new Yamaha MONTAGE Series and the more portable reface CS and reface DX mini synths.
With a Yamaha synth, you can create exciting sounds and take your performances to new levels. Do checkout the range of Yamaha keyboard synths & workstations reviewed here on this page.
Yamaha Synthesizer History
Yamaha S Series Music Synthesizers (S90 XS & S70 XS Synth Keyboards)
Yamaha S Series music synthesizer (S90 XS & S70 XS) keyboards, killer synthesizer combined with ease of use of a stage piano. Uses several sounds of Motif XS.
Yamaha S90 XS Synth Keyboard
The Yamaha S90 XS 88-Key weighted synthesizer keyboard is a powerful and great sounding board, with fantastic quality sounds, apt for stage or for the studio. It doesn’t come with built-in speakers, sequencer and sampler though.
Pros
Good key action, Great for gigs & studio use
Cons
No speakers (but lightweight), Longer Learning curve
The Yamaha-90 uses the same engine as the Motif and is suitable for stage as well as in the studio. It doesn’t come with a sequencer and sampler (but then almost everyone uses a computer for that).
Known for its three-layer piano sound, it actually uses many sounds from the Motif. The 88 weighted keys with Graded Hammer Effect is something that piano players will really appreciate. It also comes with a SmartMedia Playback card, which you can use during live performances or just for your practice sessions.
Great synth for performing and for creating music, but there is also a steep learning curve.
Inspiring Sounds
Be it any genre of music, you’ll find inspiring sounds (S6 concert grand piano and sounds from the Motif) that will help you play/create great music.
Sing Along
Want to sing-along? Be it for lead or backup vocals? Just plug in a microphone and you can become a one-man band. You can also apply effects such as chorus or reverb to the vocals to make them sound better.
Record to USB thumb drive
It’s so convenient to record your recordings/performance, along with the vocals, on a USB drive without having to go through a computer. Just push “record” and you’re rolling, perfect for the singer/songwriter.
At Ease in the studio
Use it as a controller and as a remote control for remotely controlling the various playback functions as well as VST instruments within the DAW software (right from your keyboard).
- 88 keys with balanced hammer weighted action (has Initial and Aftertouch)
- Instant splits and layers with the new Performance Creator
- Add vocals and guitars with the 1/4″/XLR Combo jack A/D input (comes with front panel controls)
- Voice Editor and Remote Editor software provides convenient, comprehensive computer control over all sounds, settings, and functions
Overall, this is a classy performance keyboard that has voices, arpeggios, and effects taken from the Yamaha Motif, and has a great piano-like feel.
Buying Options
1. Yamaha S90-XS on Zzounds ($2350 to $2450)
Yamaha S70 XS Synth Keyboard Review
The Yamaha S70 XS 76-Key Weighted Synthesizer Keyboard gives you all the voices, performances, arps and VCM effects found on the MOTIF XS, but in an affordable package. It combines the sounds of the Motif XS, with powerful features and the ease of a stage piano. If you find 61 keys limiting in a synth, then this is the next best option.
PROS: Easy to Use, Realistic Sounds, Responsive Action
CONS: Heavy, No Speakers
In addition to providing sounds from the Motif XS, you get features such as combo input jack for adding vocals and guitars and USB record/playback that makes this synth keyboard perfect for any stage or studio use. With the Performance Creator feature, you can quickly create your own performances. It also has extensive Controller functions that makes it a suitable fit in any computer based music production system.
The sleek look and low-profile design makes it easy to carry this gear around (weighs less than 50 pounds). The controls are intuitively laid out and clearly labeled, which is an advantage when onstage, the pitch and mod wheels are also easy to access. The large, super-bright LCD screen clearly shows all your selections.
Be it R&B, electronica, jazz, rock or any other genre, you’ll find the sounds for playing in that genre. The grand piano sample is straight out of Yamaha’s brand-new S6 concert grand piano. Add to that the various performances, arpeggios, and virtual circuit modeling effects, and you have plenty to play around.
- 76-key keyboard with Balanced Hammer Effect
- S6 handcrafted grand piano sample and many Sounds from the Motif X
- Headphone Jack, Microphone Input, MIDI I/O/T, L/R Outputs, USB
If you are an experienced musician who does lot of gigging & studio work, you definitely need a special instrument to make your music even better. With a range of sonic features and expressive playability, the Yamaha S70 XS could easily be that instrument for you.
Buying Options
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Montage officially replaced Motif XF as the Yamaha flagship synth couple of years back.
However, there’s speculation that MOXF6 and MOXF8 will be phased out despite it doing very well in terms of sales.
Any truth about this or is it just speculation?
While the MOXF is definitey not obsolete, MOXF is from 2013 so people could be anticipating a replacement, because Montage is also now released.
Even though the price difference is very significant between the two indicating that the two can co-exist, MOXF is actually a stripped down version of Motif.
So I would personally wait till early next year to see if a MOXF replacement shows up, If I had to buy a Yamaha synth.
Here’s a thread on this topic.