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New Yamaha MODX+ Music Synthesizer | Overview and Demo with Philip Cornish

New Yamaha MODX+ Music Synthesizer | Overview and Demo with Philip Cornish

MODX+ Overview

MODX+ Overview

Yamaha's Tech Talk: Introducing MODX+

Yamaha's Tech Talk: Introducing MODX+

Yamaha Global Stage | Michael Lecoq "Gritty Funky" Performance

Yamaha Global Stage | Michael Lecoq "Gritty Funky" Performance

Yamaha

Description

The Yamaha MODX8+ 88-key synthesizer is a powerhouse of sound design and musical creativity, offering a seamless blend of advanced technology and expressive playability. Borrowing from Yamaha's flagship MONTAGE series, this instrument combines the AWM2 (Advanced Wave Memory 2) engine for sample-based synthesis with the FM-X (Frequency Modulation) engine for dynamic tonal shaping. With 128-note stereo polyphony and a semi-weighted, synth-action keyboard, the MODX8+ delivers exceptional responsiveness and performance capabilities. Its Smart Morph feature, powered by advanced AI, allows for fluid transitions between FM-X sounds, unlocking a rich palette of evolving textures. Designed for musicians seeking professional-grade tools in a portable format, the MODX8+ brings inspiring sonic possibilities to both the studio and the stage.

Dual Synthesis Engines for Limitless Sound Design

The MODX8+ synthesizer features two powerful synthesis engines that work in harmony to deliver a vast array of sounds. The AWM2 engine provides sample-based synthesis with 16 parts, each containing 18 filter types, amplitude and pitch envelope generators, 3-band EQ and advanced effects like Virtual Circuit Modeling. Complementing this is the FM-X engine, an eight-operator FM architecture capable of producing both retro-inspired tones and cutting-edge textures. With 128 notes of polyphony for each engine, the MODX8+ ensures seamless layering and complex soundscapes without note dropouts. These engines combine to create an expansive sonic palette, perfect for pushing creative boundaries.

Smart Morph and Motion Control for Evolving Textures

Smart Morph technology on the MODX8+ allows players to seamlessly transition between up to eight FM-X sounds using an intuitive touchscreen interface. Powered by Yamaha's advanced AI algorithms, this feature maps interactions across a morphing grid, creating unique sonic combinations that evolve dynamically. Additionally, Motion Control provides real-time modulation of multiple parameters for expressive performances. The Super Knob makes it easy to manipulate these changes, offering hands-on control for shaping evolving textures and immersive soundscapes. These features make the instrument ideal for creating complex, layered performances and dynamic sound design.

High-Quality Effects and Comprehensive Modulation

This Yamaha synthesizer includes an array of professional-grade effects and modulation options to enhance your sound. Virtual Circuit Modeling effects replicate analog warmth and character, while multi-band EQ and reverb provide precise tonal shaping. Nine LFOs per part, along with customizable envelope generators, allow detailed modulation for crafting intricate textures. The built-in effects suite includes everything from delay and distortion to advanced algorithms, ensuring each sound is polished and performance-ready. With these tools, the MODX8+ delivers studio-quality sound straight out of the box.

Lightweight Build With Professional Features

The MODX8+ synthesizer is built with portability in mind, weighing significantly less than many professional-grade keyboards while retaining robust performance capabilities. Its semi-weighted keys provide a responsive feel for dynamic playing, whether performing intricate passages or subtle flourishes. The durable chassis ensures reliability during transport and setup, while the intuitive interface simplifies navigation during live performances. Combined with its lightweight design, this makes the MODX8+ a practical choice for gigging musicians and studio producers alike, without compromising on functionality or sound quality.

Perfect for Sound Designers and Live Performers

The Yamaha MODX8+ synthesizer is ideal for sound designers and performing musicians who demand advanced tools in a portable format. Its dual synthesis engines, real-time performance controls, and professional effects make it a versatile instrument for crafting unique sounds and delivering expressive live performances. Whether you're shaping complex textures in the studio or commanding attention on stage, the MODX8+ provides the power and flexibility to bring your creative vision to life.

Yamaha MODX8+ 88-Key Synthesizer
Yamaha MODX8+ 88-Key Synthesizer
Yamaha MODX8+ 88-Key Synthesizer

Features

  • AWM2 engine delivers stunningly realistic sounds with 128 notes of polyphony
  • FM-X architecture offers dynamic synth tones for '80s or modern EDM
  • Semi-weighted keyboard enables expressive and emotive performances with ease
  • Super Knob allows seamless sound transitions for immersive soundscapes
  • Smart Morph blends up to eight FM-X sounds for unique textures
  • Motion Control adds evolving textures for dynamic sound design
  • Virtual Circuit Modeling effects provide authentic analog-style sound reproduction
  • Touchscreen interface ensures intuitive navigation and real-time control
  • Dual sound engines combine for a limitless range of creative possibilities
  • Inspired by the flagship MONTAGE for professional-grade performance and sound

Specs

  • Keys: 88
  • Keybed: Weighted action
  • Polyphony: 256 notes (128 AWM2 + 128 FM-X)
  • Internal Flash memory: 1.75GB
  • Weight: 30.4 lb.

Reviews

4.67

27 Reviews

100%

of respondents would recommend this to a friend

Most Liked Positive Review

5

Great Synth with loads of flexibility

I use it for all band activities, practice, jamming, gigging, etc. I have a Roland VR730 which is a nice keyboard. But I moved to the Modx because I wanted a purer piano sound. Well, the Modx is light years ahead of the Roland in terms of technology and voluminous sound library. However, there is a steep learning curve with the Modx, which is to be expected given its sophisticated capabilities.

VS

Most Liked Negative Review

3

Good keyboard for the price

This is a pretty decent keyboard for the money. It doesn't have nearly the features of like a fantom eight or fantom G8, but it's a pretty solid keyboard and it's easy to transport because of the lightweight. Keep in mind that this is a synthesizer, not a workstation so it doesn't have the simultaneous types of effects and band features That your workstations do.

Filters
Best Uses
  1. Accompaniment6
  2. Concerts5
  3. MIDI5
  4. Travel5
  5. Electronic Music4
Cons
  1. Heavy2
  2. Training time was considerable1
  3. Unrealistic sound1
  4. A/C outlet should be heavier1
  5. Noisy keyboards1
Describe Yourself
  1. Experienced5
  2. Professional Musician3
  3. Professional worship leader1
  4. Ben playing for a few years I play in a band1
  5. Independent songwriter1
Pros
  1. Responsive / Good Action7
  2. Good Audio6
  3. Touch Sensitive Keys6
  4. Easy to Use4
  5. Portable4
  • Very good unit for pro

    4

    originally posted on

    http://usa.yamaha.com/

    brand logo

    submitteda month ago

    byJacques

    fromMauritius

    Submitted as part of a sweepstakes

    Very good unit for pro, but need to increase the size of text and logos, some improvements to be brought to saxophone soprano that's is far from real sound and for Distortion guitar sound

  • Nice features, but needs more presets for stage use

    4

    originally posted on

    http://usa.yamaha.com/

    brand logo

    submitted2 months ago

    byBryan

    fromToronto

    Submitted as part of a sweepstakes

    I upgraded to the MODx8+ from a MX88 so it would be easier to create presets and set lists for performing. The MODx8+ has lots of very nice features, but it seems more targeted at players who want to design their own sounds. While the presets that came with the keyboard demonstrate some interesting sound capabilities, few of them are useful to me in the songs I play. A large library of presets for popular songs would be nice. I ended up purchasing a lot of extra third party sound packs to get presets I needed. Maybe some day I'll find the time to learn how to create presets, but that seems like a steep learning curve.

  • Killer Sound and operating

    5

    originally posted on

    http://usa.yamaha.com/

    brand logo

    submitted10 months ago

    bySam

    fromGraz, Austria

    Submitted as part of a sweepstakes

    Killer Sounds, easy operating, touch display and easy weight - one of my favorite live keyboards

  • Great keyboard

    4

    originally posted on

    http://usa.yamaha.com/

    brand logo

    submitteda year ago

    byMsmith

    fromCastle Rock, CO

    Submitted as part of a sweepstakes

    Love this keyboard! The weighted keys feel and react pretty close to exceptional! Practicing on it keeps my dexterity and strength, seemingly making me fast and more accurate when playing my semi-weighted keys on stage. I do wish there was a way to use specific sounds it generates in my DAW for the other boards to use (like a vst) as I am trying not to travel this board too much ( it cost a lot more than my stage boards) . There is a hum from the usb port when going direct to a mixer or amp but that is corrected with an active direct box… Otherwise, another great product from Yamaha. I would highly recommend it for a weighted board!

  • What an incredible instrument!

    5

    Verified Buyer

    submitteda year ago

    bySteve

    fromBloomington/Normal, Illinois

    Submitted as part of a sweepstakes

    I must have been a very good boy to get this for xmas :) At 62 I am not sure if I will live long enough to do everything this thing does, but I sure am going to have a lot of fun trying to figure it all out! #sweepstakes

  • I am so glad I bought this keyboard!

    5

    Verified Buyer

    submitteda year ago

    byJulie

    fromGreen Bay, Wi

    Submitted as part of a sweepstakes

    I love the voice presets and the limitless options of creating my own sounds. It has midi compatibility and so many variables so I can use it for performances, as a workstation to write songs and import patches. It's everything I was looking for and more!

Q&A

Have a question about this product? Our expert Gear Advisers have the answers.

  • asked byRich

    fromConway, SC

    Does this keyboard have a transpose feature

    Open Reply - Gear-Support
    Yes, it does.
  • asked byMichael

    fromDawsonville Ga.

    What are the dimensions of this keyboard and can it be used with ableton 11

    Open Reply - Thomas
    Height: 6.3" Width: 52.5" Depth: 15.9" Weight: 30.4 lbs...................Yes
  • asked bygeorge

    fromWashington

    How much does this model weigh?

    Open Reply - Thomas
    30 lbs., 7 ozs.