Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $149
Budget/Beginner
$500
$1501+
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Based on price data from 1 merchant for "Fairlight IIx". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The Fairlight IIx is a legendary synthesizer that transports you back to the golden era of '80s music production, offering a seamless fusion of nostalgia and cutting-edge technology. This iconic synth is a faithful recreation of the original that once defined the soundscapes for artists like Peter Gabriel and Herbie Hancock. Its intuitive interface invites both seasoned musicians and budding producers to explore a vast array of sonic possibilities.
At the heart of the Fairlight IIx is its distinctive Page R sequencer, a pioneering tool that changed the way music was composed and recorded. Coupled with a library of over 250 meticulously crafted presets, this synthesizer offers everything from lush pads and punchy basses to ethereal leads and intricate soundscapes. The Fairlight IIx doesn’t just replicate the past—it reimagines it, allowing you to craft unique sounds that push the boundaries of modern music production.
Whether you're looking to recreate the iconic sounds of yesteryear or blaze new trails in sound design, the Fairlight IIx provides an unparalleled platform. Its creative multi-phraser and flexible drum machine make it an indispensable tool in any musician's arsenal, perfect for crafting complex compositions or diving into spontaneous jam sessions.
Key Features:
- Faithful recreation of the iconic '80s Fairlight CMI synthesizer
- Over 250 ready-to-play presets
- Distinctive Page R sequencer for unparalleled composition capabilities
- Multi-phraser for advanced synthesis and sound design
- Intuitive interface for easy navigation and creativity
- Compatible with standalone, AAX, VST, and AU formats
- Works on both Mac and PC systems
Product specs
| Software Type | 1980's synth emulation |
| Platform | Mac, PC |
| Upgrade/Full | Full |
| Download/Boxed | Download |
| Bit Depth | 32-bit, 64-bit |
| Format | Standalone, AAX, VST, AU, AAX |
| Authorization Type | iLok Account |
| Hardware Requirements - Mac | Intel Processor, 7200 rpm/SSD hard drive recommended, 8GB RAM recommended |
| Hardware Requirements - PC | Core Duo Processor or higher, 7200 rpm/SSD hard drive recommended, 8GB RAM recommended |
| OS Requirements - Mac | OS X 10.14 or later |
| OS Requirements - PC | Windows 7 or later |
FAQs
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What type of synthesis does the Fairlight IIx use?
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The Fairlight IIx utilizes digital sampling synthesis, allowing users to record and manipulate audio samples, which was revolutionary in the 1980s.
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Is the Fairlight IIx software compatible with modern DAWs?
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Yes, the Fairlight IIx software is compatible with modern DAWs as it supports AAX, VST, and AU formats, making it versatile for integration into various digital audio workstations.
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What are the system requirements for running the Fairlight IIx software on a Mac?
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To run the Fairlight IIx software on a Mac, you need an Intel Processor, OS X 10.14 or later, and it's recommended to have a 7200 rpm/SSD hard drive and 8GB of RAM.
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Does the Fairlight IIx require an iLok account for authorization?
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Yes, the Fairlight IIx requires an iLok account for authorization, ensuring secure and easy management of your software license.
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Can the Fairlight IIx software be used on both 32-bit and 64-bit systems?
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Yes, the Fairlight IIx software is compatible with both 32-bit and 64-bit systems, providing flexibility for different computer setups.
Videos
SynthMania
Fairlight IIx playing "ORCH5"
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fairlight IIx.
Features and functionality
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The Fairlight IIx uses dual 6809 processors, contributing to its advanced capabilities despite primitive tech, including MIDI support and a light pen interface that can be cumbersome.
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The Fairlight IIx includes a Music Creation Language, offering precise control with 1ms increments for time position, though it can be labor-intensive to use.
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User experience
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Owners describe the Fairlight's mechanical keyboard as highly satisfying, providing a tactile and clicky response, which adds to the overall user experience.
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The Fairlight IIx's interface relies heavily on key commands, which users find surprisingly intuitive for a device of its era, with logical layout and straightforward navigation.
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Users report that the Fairlight IIx has a loud cooling system, contributing to its industrial tech vibe, which some find enhances the experience of using the hardware.
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Users highlight that Arturia's presets often include post-processing effects, which can overshadow the raw sound of the synth, impacting creative workflows.
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Software and compatibility
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QasarBeach is a free emulation of the CMI IIx, noted for its solid wave creation and sequencing capabilities, though it currently supports only stereo output.
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QasarBeach is noted for its authentic emulation, closely mimicking the original Fairlight's software, but lacks direct DAW integration, unlike Arturia CMI V.
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Comparisons
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The Fairlight IIx's bass sounds are often compared to those produced by the Yamaha DX7, with enhanced bite from string noise, creating a warm and distinctive tone.
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Arturia CMI V provides a faithful recreation of the Fairlight's sounds with added convenience for DAW use, favored by users over QasarBeach for ease of integration.
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Use cases and applications
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The Fairlight IIx's Page R sequencer was used extensively in the 80s, locking to 2" tape, and remains appreciated for its rock-solid performance during that era.
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UVI Darklight IIx is praised for offering a comprehensive library of classic Fairlight sounds, allowing for both immediate use and further sound shaping.
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5.0 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 1 Rating
257
A legend, and for good reason
Just fabulous synth/sampler, gritty and fat and easy to use, especially with Page R which allows a very simple block recording and editing page, never found the light pen very useful. Was a bit of a repair nightmare and was very expensive to run and keep up. Miss it though, a very special musical instrument albeit very limited memory. Never used it on a recording ive released, but it's a definite studio dogs bucket lister. Would have one again in a shot !
Artist usage
Add artistAlbum Usage
The Fairlight IIx has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Fairlight IIx, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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