Yamaha synthesizers : our opinion and best deals in the UK 2022

Yamaha has been the world leader in synthesizers for nearly 60 years, impressing with the robustness and sound quality of its product line. Whether you're looking to perfect your instrument skills or express your musical talent, Yamaha synthesizers are sure to please. If you're thinking of buying one, check out our selection of the brand's four best-sellers in this guide.

Yamaha MODX8 1
8/10

Editor's Choice

Yamaha MODX8

The best Yamaha synthesizer in 2021

This synthesizer is ideal for the pianist who is looking for an instrument with a wide range of sounds and very advanced features. Equipped with a Graded Hammer mechanism, this instrument will allow him to perfect his scales.

1 002 £ on Thomann

The MODX8 is arguably the best Yamaha synthesizer in its class. This musical instrument has it all, starting with its 88 velocity-sensitive semi-weighted keys and 192 permanently available polyphony channels (128 stereo on AWM2 and 64 on FM-X). On stage or in your home studio, this synthesizer will allow you to perform your music the way you've always wanted. A touch screen will help you make the different settings you need.

With Motion Control Synthesis technology and the connected Super Knob expression pedal, Yamaha gives you the opportunity to control all 128 parameters of the instrument simultaneously. In a single performance, you can access operators, LFOs, synthesis parameters, effect sends, mixes with levels - you can do almost anything. This synthesizer also has 1Gb of flash memory as well as an array of computer and auxiliary connections.

Yamaha MX88 2
8/10

Best cheap

Yamaha MX88

The best entry-level Yamaha synthesizer

Besides the sound of an acoustic piano, this synthesizer offers a wide selection of sounds. Between the sounds of the electric pianos with slats or the organs with phonic wheels, the musician has only the embarrassment of the choice.

604 £ on Thomann

The Yamaha MX88 owes its popularity to its touch, which is very similar to that of a grand piano. This model is equipped with a GHS (Graded Hammer Standard) keyboard that provides a heavier sound in the low register and a lighter sound in the high register. In short, this instrument will allow you to deliver an acoustic playing of a striking realism. It is probably not the only one to have this specificity, but its keys (black matte) absorb moisture, which maintains the quality of the touch even after hours of use.

Ideal for orchestrators and average musicians, this 88-key MX88 offers over 1000 sounds that are derived from MOTIF. This sound synthesis technology will allow the composer to combine or layer sounds to make them thicker or bolder. As for the second technology called Virtual Circuitry Modeling or VCM, it will allow them to bring countless effects to their musical creations.

Yamaha Montage 8 3
9/10

Best high-end

Yamaha Montage 8

The best high-end Yamaha synthesizer

The Montage 8 is a high quality synthesizer for composers and music producers. From the outset, you should know that this exceptional instrument does not have built-in speakers.

2 554 £ on Thomann

As soon as your fingers touch the 88 keys, you'll fall in love with this Yamaha synthesizer, considered one of the best by connoisseurs. Thanks to its Balanced Hammer mechanism, this instrument will allow you to accurately reproduce the nuances of a piano sound. The perfect balance provided by this mechanism will make your playing more fluid and inspiring. If the beginner pianist will quickly find his marks with this synthesizer, the experienced musician will refine his fingering even more.

As for the connections, the Montage 8 offers everything you need. It offers 2 balanced USB ports, a sustain pedal, a damper pedal and various accessories that will be very useful on stage or in your personal studio. In addition, its Motion Control programming matrix will help you create a deep, dynamic and expressive sound. If there's one complaint about this synthesizer, it's its weight.

Yamaha Montage 6 B-Stock 4
9/10

Best Yamaha synthesizer for mobile use

Yamaha Montage 6 B-Stock

The best 61-key Yamaha synthesizer

The Yamaha Montage 6 B-Stock 61-key keyboard has a chic, sophisticated design that's both powerful and intuitive. It's perfect for the demands of the stage or the personal workstation.

1 680 £ on Thomann
Buying guide • November 2023

Best Yamaha synthesizer

Any specific needs?

The best Yamaha synthesizer in 2021

The best entry-level Yamaha synthesizer

The best high-end Yamaha synthesizer

The best 61-key Yamaha synthesizer

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Comparison table of the best Yamaha synthesizers

THE BEST CHEAP HIGH END EXCELLENT
Yamaha MODX8 5
8/10
Yamaha MX88 6
8/10
Yamaha Montage 8 7
9/10
Yamaha Montage 6 B-Stock 8
9/10
OUR SELECTION
Yamaha MODX8
Yamaha MX88
Yamaha Montage 8
Yamaha Montage 6 B-Stock
This synthesizer is ideal for the pianist who is looking for an instrument with a wide range of sounds and very advanced features. Equipped with a Graded Hammer mechanism, this instrument will allow him to perfect his scales.
Besides the sound of an acoustic piano, this synthesizer offers a wide selection of sounds. Between the sounds of the electric pianos with slats or the organs with phonic wheels, the musician has only the embarrassment of the choice.
The Montage 8 is a high quality synthesizer for composers and music producers. From the outset, you should know that this exceptional instrument does not have built-in speakers.
The Yamaha Montage 6 B-Stock 61-key keyboard has a chic, sophisticated design that's both powerful and intuitive. It's perfect for the demands of the stage or the personal workstation.
Dimensions
133.3 x 40.4 x 16 cm
132 x 40.5 x 16.8 cm
145 x 46 x 17 cm
103.7 x 39.6 x 13.1 cm
Weight
13.8 kg
13.9 kg
29 kg
15 kg
Number of keys
88
88
88
61
Connectics
Midi and 2 USB interfaces
USB
Midi interface and 2 USB
USB and MIDI Interface
Number of performance presets
2000
1000
1920
1920

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Our opinion on the Yamaha synthesizers

Primary Item (H2)Sub Item 1 (H3)

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Our opinion on Yamaha synthesizers

Yamaha is so popular with professional and amateur composers because of the quality and durability of its synthesizers. Yamaha synthesizers are designed to last for a long time in your musical career. A trusted name in the music business, Yamaha offers a variety of models to suit the needs and budgets of all types of musicians.

Yamaha continues to innovate its collection of synthesizers, and they have become a staple among many of the world's leading musicians. The many advantages of the digital pianos manufactured by the Japanese firm allow them to win hands down over the competition. Today, the new generation of Yamaha synthesizers are so well crafted that they match the quality of sounds produced by grand pianos.

If you're looking to make rapid progress, Yamaha synthesizers offer a variety of programs and features to help you learn.

In addition, these instruments have the advantage of :

  • A rich sound bank: the best Yamaha synthesizers offer up to 192 channels of polyphony. This abundance of sound places them among the most used synthesizers by professionals. The instrument delivers musical performances that border on perfection.
  • Inimitable touch: Yamaha's advanced technology makes its synthesizers provide a musical feel that is as close as possible to that of a classical piano. In general, these digital pianos offer very good playing dynamics.
  • Advanced features: Yamaha synthesizers allow you to create music from scratch that you can mix and play live. In fact, there's nothing that aspiring or experienced musicians can't do with these instruments, because they are so feature-rich. The LCD control interface is intuitive and easy to understand even for beginners.
  • Ease of transport: The majority of Yamaha synthesizers have a slim, compact design. Models designed specifically for the mobile musician can be carried in a case or, alternatively, in a large bag.

That said, Yamaha synthesizers are not without their drawbacks.

The professional models are somewhat massive. Some musicians criticize these synthesizers for looking kitschy. Nevertheless, the aesthetics of a musical instrument is a matter of personal preference. It's up to you to choose the look of your digital piano based on your own criteria. Fortunately, Yamaha has a range of modern-looking, sleek instruments that are sure to please.

Yamaha's synthesizers, being true technological gems, can be difficult to adjust. Adjustments are difficult to make, especially when using the instrument for the very first time. Some users get lost exploring the hundreds of features these musical instruments offer.

Yamaha synthesizer or Korg synthesizer?

Yamaha Synthesizer

The Yamaha synthesizer is very popular because it allows you to learn the instrument quickly. It takes only a few months to master the basics. You may not realize it, but this atypical keyboard allows for some really complex playing. Whatever sound you want to reproduce, the device is capable of it. Whether on stage, in the rehearsal room, or at the workstation, professional musicians can do a lot with a Yamaha synthesizer.

Korg Synthesizer

Korg is the most serious competitor of Yamaha in terms of synthesizers. This manufacturer is best known for its range of digital synthesizers and Workstation. Its mastery of technology has allowed it to develop instruments whose sound is very close to that of a grand piano. Compact and aesthetic, Korg synthesizers enjoy a great reputation among professional musicians.

Verdict

In the mid-range category, Korg synthesizers are better than Yamaha synthesizers, according to music professionals. On the other hand, Yamaha synthesizers outperform the Korg in the high-end category, because they are better engineered and sound like a grand piano.

How to choose your Yamaha synthesizer

To get the Yamaha synthesizer that meets your expectations, here are the elements on which you should base your choice.

Criterion 1 : The keyboard

The keyboard is the most important part of a synthesizer. Consider inspecting the number, size and quality of the keys. Most Yamaha synthesizers have 80 keys, but you can also find models with 60 keys or 32 keys for mini digital pianos. The quality of the keys is also important. You need to be able to just touch them for them to produce a sound.

Criterion 2 : The notes

The more polyphonic notes a Yamaha synthesizer has, the more variety it allows for scales. A 32-note instrument is not enough for a musician in the process of perfecting their skills. Learning musicians often choose a 32-note Yamaha synthesizer, but soon realize that this number is insufficient. Whether you're just starting out or are already an accomplished musician, you should always choose an instrument that delivers excellent sound quality, which is the case with mid-range and high-end Yamaha synthesizers. With such instruments, not only will your learning be done in record time, but your creations will appeal to lovers of good music.

Criterion 3 : The sound

The advantage of a synthesizer over a piano is the former's ability to produce different sounds. However, it all depends on your needs or what you want to do with it. The models produced by Yamaha have a large library that can suit both professionals and beginners. If you don't have the ambition to become a top producer, prefer the basic or mid-range models.

Criterion 4 : The sound bank

Before making a purchase, look a little more into the features offered by the Yamaha synthesizer. First, check to see if the instrument has a headphone jack. Next, see if it has a recording function and connections so that it can be paired with a computer.

Finally, see if it has a power supply. Using the power cord will save you from wearing out batteries.

Criterion 5 : The features

The more features and keys a Yamaha synthesizer has, the more massive it is. These less ergonomic models are mostly for music professionals. However, there's nothing to stop you from adopting one. For mobile use, choose a more compact model that you can carry from one place to another without getting tired.

Criterion 6 : The dimensions

5 good reasons to buy a Yamaha synthesizer

1. It's easy to carry

Most Yamaha synthesizers are compact and portable. They are designed specifically for musicians on the go. Thanks to their size and weight, these instruments can be carried anywhere in a carrying case or travel bag.

If you feel like performing in a park near your apartment, just grab your instrument and go.

2. It produces a crystal clear sound

The sound quality offered by the best Yamaha synthesizers is impeccable. This may seem trivial at first, but as you become more familiar with the instrument, you'll find that its sounds differ greatly from those of its competitors. The tone, noise and resonance are better.

3. It has an outstanding touch

You don't have to force the keys of a Yamaha synthesizer to make it sound. Just touch them and the instrument delivers its best.

Yamaha engineers try to create synthesizers that have a grand piano-like feel so that players can vary their scales and have good dynamics.

4. It offers countless features

Yamaha synthesizers have countless features, especially those that are newly manufactured. The creative possibilities are endless, as these instruments can be coupled with a computer through the MIDI interface. After recording your song, you can mix it to your heart's content.

5. It meets the needs of all musician profiles

Whether you're a beginner, advanced or professional musician, the Yamaha synthesizer will help you express your talent to the fullest, or at least help you progress quickly. If you're just starting out, this instrument will help you learn and improve with confidence.

Our opinion on alternative brands

We believe these are the best alternative brands to the Yamaha synthesizers:

Akai
Bontempi
Alesis
Schubert
Roland

When it started in 1984, Akai specialized in household appliances. The brand did not produce musical instruments until the early 1990s. The quality of its synthesizers has earned it the trust of hundreds of thousands of musicians.

Bontempi has been making musical instruments for children, apprentices, and music professionals for nearly 80 years. Its synthesizers are among the most used by European classical musicians.

Making modern musical instruments has been the credo of Alesis since its creation. This can be seen in the design and technologies used by the manufacturer on its range of synthesizers.

Schubert is a brand that is dedicated body and soul to creating musical instruments, but not just any instruments. The manufacturer has made the piano and its many variations its specialties, which it has mastered to perfection for many decades.

Despite this very French-sounding name, Roland is indeed a Japanese brand that was born in 1972. Whether you play rock, pop, or variety music, Roland keyboards will blow you away with the quality of their sound.

Tips

Connect it to your PC

The majority of producers currently use music software to compose their next hit. To do the same, consider getting a good music software first. Choose one that is easy to use.

Then, connect your synthesizer via the Midi/USB interface. Then, for better sound, buy a mid-range or high-end sound card depending on your means.

Be patient

Learning music is a long process. In order to get close to the virtuosos in the field, you will have to practice and practice again. For beginners, sign up for face-to-face lessons. There, you'll have teachers who will guide you verbally, and they'll correct the details you won't see if you study on your own.

Maintain your Yamaha synthesizer

The Yamaha synthesizer may be very sturdy, but it will need regular maintenance on your part. After a long rehearsal session, take a dry cloth and wipe the surface of the instrument meticulously to remove fingerprints and fine layers of dust.

Be aware of the features

Most Yamaha synthesizers have a headphone jack, but no built-in speakers. If you're looking for a model that offers both, be sure to inspect the instrument's features. Also, see if it has MIDI or USB audio connectivity.

Get help if you're just starting out

If you're new to the game, you're bound to get lost with the thousand and one features of Yamaha synthesizers. To quickly understand how the instrument works, enlist the help of a musician friend or watch video tutorials on YouTube.

FAQ

How many keys are there on a Yamaha synthesizer?

Yamaha synthesizers are constantly diversifying to meet the needs of musicians of all backgrounds. Today, these instruments are available in all sizes. Of course, the number of keys varies depending on the size of the Yamaha synthesizers. You can choose from 30-key, 37-key, 60-key, 80-key and 88-key models.

What makes Yamaha synthesizers different?

Yamaha synthesizers are real gems for all musicians. They are appreciated for their sturdiness, their sound quality, but especially for their features that make them very practical. People who rehearse with these musical instruments progress quickly. It's not uncommon for them to discover a passion for music creation, whether classical or electronic.

Is it possible to connect Yamaha synthesizers to a computer?

Yeah, it's possible to connect Yamaha synthesizers to a computer via connectors such as the MIDI interface or USB audio. This allows musical creations to be transferred directly to the hard drive. From there, a musician can add effects, graft sequences or remove sequences to his or her song. He can do almost anything using music processing software.

Are there any drawbacks to Yamaha synthesizers?

The one weakness of Yamaha synthesizers is often inherent in their weight. The top-of-the-line products weigh up to thirty kilos. But rest assured, these musical instruments come in all sizes. Whether you're looking for a massive synthesizer or a more compact model, Yamaha has them in its product line.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information. See more

Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

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Our selection
Yamaha MODX8 9
Yamaha MODX8
Yamaha MX88 10
Yamaha MX88
Yamaha Montage 8 11
Yamaha Montage 8
Yamaha Montage 6 B-Stock 12
Yamaha Montage 6 B-Stock

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