Yamaha CS-15

$1,049.99 Price Tier: Standard

4.5 (14)

2 Critic Reviews

1 Review

Find out who is using Yamaha CS-15

2 community setups

4 wishlisted

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Page last updated Jun 04, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated June 4, 2026.

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Reviews

Price

5.0 (4)

$1,049.99 7 available Used

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Average Price: $1,050

Standard/Professional

$500

$1501+

Price Tier

In the Synthesizers category, Yamaha CS-15 is priced in the Standard/Professional range. This is quality gear at a fair price point, suitable for beginners, hobbyists, and pros alike.

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High-end

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Description

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Dive into the sonic exploration with the Yamaha CS-15, a synthesizer that seamlessly blends vintage charm and modern functionality. This dual-channel beast offers musicians, from the experimentalist to the traditionalist, an expansive palette to sculpt soundscapes limited only by imagination. Its dual VCOs and unique 'Brilliance' slider elevate sound design, allowing users to craft tones ranging from the subtly nuanced to the wildly experimental. Whether integrating into a studio setup or taking center stage in live performances, the CS-15 stands as a testament to Yamaha's legacy in synthesizer craftsmanship.

Key Features:

Dual VCOs for rich, analog tones
Single LFO with triangle, saw, and S&H waveforms for versatile modulation
2 Multi-mode filters to shape and refine sound
Dual CV / Gate for extensive connectivity options
Unique 'Brilliance' slider for nuanced control over VCFs

Product specs

Brand	Yamaha
Model	CS-15 Duophonic Synthesizer
Finish	Black
Year	1978 - 1982
Made In	Japan
Categories	Analog Synths, Keyboard Synths
Analog / Digital	Analog
Key Size	Full Size
Keyboard Action	Synth Action
Number of Keys	37 Keys
Polyphony	1 Voice

FAQs

Is the Yamaha CS-15 a monophonic or polyphonic synthesizer?: The Yamaha CS-15 is a duophonic synthesizer, which means it can play two notes simultaneously, unlike monophonic synths that can only play one note at a time.
What type of synthesis does the Yamaha CS-15 use?: The Yamaha CS-15 utilizes analog synthesis, providing rich, warm sounds typical of vintage synthesizers from the late 1970s.
How many keys does the Yamaha CS-15 keyboard have?: The Yamaha CS-15 features a 37-key keyboard with full-size keys, allowing for expressive playability.
What is the primary function of the Yamaha CS-15's dual VCOs?: The dual voltage-controlled oscillators (VCOs) in the Yamaha CS-15 allow for complex sound design, enabling users to create diverse sonic textures by combining different waveforms and tuning options.
Can the Yamaha CS-15 be integrated into a modern studio setup?: While the Yamaha CS-15 is an analog synthesizer from the late 1970s, it can still be integrated into a modern studio setup using MIDI-to-CV converters, allowing it to interface with contemporary equipment.

Videos

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zibbybone

Yamaha CS-15 Synthesizer Demo

zibbybone

The Yamaha CS-15 Analogue Synthesizer from 1979 - A Forgotten Animal

Alex Ball

Friday Fun Synth Jam - Yamaha CS15 With Ventris Dual Reverb

sonicstate

01-The Yamaha CS-15: Part 1- Sounds of the Yamaha CS-15

AutomaticGainsay

DEMO YAMAHA CS15 ANALOG SYNTHESIZER

PianoVintage

Yamaha CS-15

rimela

LFS - Yamaha CS15

LFS Love For Synthesizers

Yamaha CS-15 - An Underappreciated Gem

Hugh R

Yamaha CS-15: Duophonic improv w/ Korg SQ-1 - 2 separate voices in one monosynth

DreamsOfWires

Reviews

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PROS

Dual architecture offers versatility like having two synths in one
Unique routing options nearing modular synth capabilities
Features two complete filters with Low Pass, Band Pass, and High Pass settings
Ability to control both filter cutoffs simultaneously for complex sweeps
Can create complex and unique sounds, distinct from typical fat Moog sounds
Capable of monophonic and duophonic play with the right CV converter
Attracts attention and curiosity during live performances
Retains a distinct design despite moving away from the classic wood style

CONS

High note priority may require adaptation for some players
Lacks legato play mode, with envelopes triggered on every key press
Built-in keyboard and some MIDI/CV converters limit to monophonic play without additional equipment

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha CS-15.

Features and functionality

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The Yamaha CS-15 can achieve duophonic play by using a sequencer with the CV/Gate for oscillator 2.
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Assigning one filter to high-pass and the other to low-pass creates unique formant sounds, especially when modulated with the brilliance slider.
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The CS-15's dual VCA setup allows for complex layering, enabling different envelope dynamics to create intricate sound textures.
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Mods and upgrades

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Using a Kenton Pro Solo MK3 with two splitter cables is a recommended setup for sequencing the CS-15 via MIDI.
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Running the headphone output into the external input is a recommended trick to achieve overdriven, unpredictable noise textures.
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Setup and maintenance

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Oxidation under the key bed can cause non-functional keys, highlighting the importance of thorough servicing.
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Use cases and applications

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The CS-15 is praised for its super-bouncy bass lines and atmospheric effects, suitable for creative sound design and experimentation.
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Owners praise the CS-15 for its ability to create "woolly, fuzzy, warm, and polite" sounds, suitable for ambient and electronic styles akin to Boards of Canada.
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User experience

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The CS-15 is robust enough to withstand rapid adjustments of oscillator octaves without damage, unlike some other models like the Pro-One.
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Build quality

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The Yamaha CS-15 is noted for its impressive build quality, described as solid and reliable, maintaining tuning stability exceptionally well over time.
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Comparisons

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The CS-15 is regarded as a more advanced version of the CS-5, offering richer sound capabilities and greater analog depth.
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Value and pricing

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Prices on eBay for used CS-15s range from $500 to $700, with additional shipping costs from Japan, affecting overall affordability.
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Critic Reviews

Yamaha CS-15 | Vintage Synth Explorer

vintagesynth.com

The Yamaha CS-15 stands as a robust, duophonic synth offering unique sounds thanks to its dual multimode filters. Despite its quirky CV requirements, it shines with flexible VCF routing and a suite of features like noise, LFO with Sample & Hold, and external-in processing. While its ADSRs lag behind its sibling, the CS-10, and it lacks effects and memory, its affordability makes it a worthwhile investment for fans of vintage synths. A favorite of notable artists, it excels in creating distinctive blips and bass sounds.

positive

Full Review

Behind The Synth On The Yamaha CS-15 – Synthtopia

synthtopia.com

The Yamaha CS-15 is a solid piece of vintage gear known for its robust build and unique dual voice architecture. While it boasts intriguing filters and a tank-like durability, some users feel it lacks a beefy sound and could benefit from modern updates like oscillator sync and more flexible envelope controls. It's a cherished classic for some, yet others see room for improvement, especially in its pitch modulation capabilities. Overall, it's a dependable synth with room to grow.

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4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 14 Ratings

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