Yamaha has introduced the MODX+, a major update to their MODX line of portable synthesizers that brings the synth’s capabilities closer to their flagship Montage line.
The updated MODX+ line features three keyboards: MODX8+, MODX7+ and MODX6+. Each of the synths offer more memory, greater polyphony and improved haptics over their MODX counterparts.
Yamaha MODX+ Upgrades
The three new synthesizers feature 1.75 GB of internal flash memory, an upgrade of 75 percent compared to the original models, giving you more space for custom samples and synth sound libraries. The MODX+ synths also offer more polyphony, with 128- note stereo AWM2 and 128-note FM-X polyphony.
Yamaha says that they’ve also improved the line’s haptics, by rubber-coating both the modulation and pitch bend wheels for better grip and control, giving the MODX+ more of the Montage feel.
Other Features:
The MODX+ improvements build on an already-powerful synth engine.
MODX+ still features both sound engines: AWM2 stereo samples for natural-sounding instruments, and FM-X frequency modulation synthesis for synth sounds. The MODX+ also allows for up to 13 simultaneous Dual Insert effects and three additional Master effects to shape your sounds.
Seamless Sound Switching prevents notes from cutting off when switching to a different performance. The extensive sound library covers original sounds as well as compatibility with MONTAGE, MOTIF XS/XF, MOXF and even DX and TX sounds (via the free FM converter on YamahaSynth.com). With Motion Control and a programmable matrix, these sounds can be dynamically performed, mixed and combined.
Three Yamaha MODX+ Models:
The Yamaha MODX+ series features three different models, with keyboards tailored for different types of players:
- MODX6+: features 61 semi-weighted keys for sound designers and producers wanting deep synthesis capabilities;
- MODX7+: features 76 semi-weighted keys for keyboardists needing a wide variety of sound, including all the layering and splitting they might need.
- MODX8+: features 88 graded hammer keys for players that want an authentic acoustic piano touch.
Prices and Availability:
The Yamaha MODX8+, MODX7+ and MODX6+ are available immediately, with the following pricing:
- MODX6+: $1,699.00
- MODX7+: $1,999.00
- MODX8+: $2,499.00
At the height of my GAS era I think I had about 27 modules and 13 keyboards. My studio was an 840sf building I had built surrounded by my olive orchards, it was 2 large rooms, central air/heating, they made it to match my house and at the time it cost me all in about 68k to build.
I had my baby grand and my expanded Roland D-20 kit in it as well. So much fun.
When I sold my orchards and we downsized my wife let me have 3 good sized bedrooms for all my gear lol, but I pretty much have no room for any more for full sized synths. Back in the day manufactures would often release a rack mount version of their major synths, I guess they figure there is no market for such offerings anymore?
Sounds like you’e living the dream!
This looks like an epic synth, but I struggle to really learn synths that are this deep. My current fave is the Korg Prologue, because it was so easy to learn and get around.
When I first glanced at your comment, I thought you sold your orchards and downsized your wife. LOL.
LOL!
Yea, without all those olives…
yamaha needs to do an 88 key version of their reface keybed; those things were super. at least 5 octaves guys – I would buy a mini-mod6+
The MODX is one of the most underrated synths on the market. Numerous free OS updates have only increased its versatility over the years. This refresh makes it even more attractive to newcomers. Mine’s integral to my experimental music rig; the scene memory makes for easy transitions between sections of a piece. FM patching could not be easier, and the sheer number of simultaneous effects on tap make this synth a dream to patch on. I’m sure folks think of this as a “Bread and Butter Sounds” synth, but it’s more like a ‘secret weapon’. There’s a ton of resources under the hood for creating fantastic “out there” patches from scratch.
Well said.
these Yamaha workstation synths are closer to the VAST style synthesis than any other brand – you can get really complicated with the programming if you want… but yeh still not as insanely deep as Kurzweil
Yamaha needs to create a modern CS-15.
looks great in purple!
But still NO AFTERTOUCH!!! Hard pass.
I have yet to see channel aftertouch that works as well as a simple expression pedal.
There’s a physical limit to how expressively you can control pressure on a keyboard with an 1/8″ range of motion, vs 3-4″ of motion that you get with an expression pedal.
For it to be useful, aftertouch needs to be implemented as well as it is on the Osmose or Hydrasynth.
I agree 100%. I get why people like mono.AT, and it is a valid modulation source. However, as you say, it’s not very controllable– just good where precision isn’t needed. Also, if you play hard, after-touch gets all over your MIDI tracks. I usually turn it off anyway.
Expression pedals & breath controllers are way better, but aren’t always a useable solution.
All that said, I think I’d rather a keyboard have it than not.
I’ve never seen such aggressive and action-packed knob tweedling in a video. My imagination was adding martial-arts-movie-style whoosh sound effects to those bold parameter adjustments.
A little disappointing to see those circuit-mounted audio jacks not be chassis-mounted. Maybe those are more rugged than they look, but it seems like those might not be that durable.
I agree with Sabazios about the comparison to Kurzweil, which has more power, flexibility, and amazing effects. Not without some weaknesses, but I’d take a Kurzweil K2700 or PC4 over a Yamaha MODX or MODX+ in terms of shear versatility. I wonder how they compare in terms of fidelity (aliasing, etc.) and durability.
NO AFTERTOUCH! Hard pass.
Are they possibly confusing the words “haptic” and “ergonomic”, or is there really something haptic going on with these?
I have created a device that displays the LCD screen view of regular MODX on the computer display and allows to control the instrument with the help of a mouse directly from the computer. Wonder, if MODX still allows to connect an external touch screen via the USB to Device socket?
2GB RAM for a workstation? Can’t go any professional with that. My instrument samples have like 15GB each. For a single/multi synth instrument for live playing or home fun? Ok. For a workstation? Meh.