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Average Price: $1,178

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$500

$1501+

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Description

Discover the vintage charm and robust sonic capabilities of the Yamaha CS-20M Synthesizer. A true gem from the golden era of synths, this instrument combines classic analog warmth with versatile sound sculpting tools. Whether you're crafting deep bass lines, ethereal pads, or cutting leads, the CS-20M offers a tactile and immersive experience that modern synthesizers strive to emulate. Its intuitive interface, paired with a rich feature set, makes it an ideal choice for both seasoned musicians and those new to the world of synthesis. Dive into a world of musical exploration with a synthesizer that has stood the test of time.

Key Features:

  • Two oscillators for rich, layered sounds
  • Subtractive synthesis approach for dynamic sound creation
  • Resonant switchable filter to shape your tone
  • ADSR envelope control for precise sound tailoring
  • Eight memory patches for storing and recalling your favorite sounds
  • CV / Gate connectivity for integration with modular setups

Product specs

Brand Yamaha
Model CS-20M Monophonic Synthesizer
Finish Black
Year 1979
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-20M synthesizer monophonic or polyphonic?

The Yamaha CS-20M is a monophonic synthesizer, meaning it can produce one note at a time, which is ideal for bass lines and lead sounds.

What kind of sound engine does the Yamaha CS-20M use?

The Yamaha CS-20M features an analog sound engine, providing warm and rich tones characteristic of vintage synthesizers.

How many keys does the Yamaha CS-20M have?

The Yamaha CS-20M synthesizer has 37 full-size keys, offering a comfortable playing experience for both live performances and studio work.

Does the Yamaha CS-20M have preset memory storage?

Yes, the Yamaha CS-20M includes memory storage that allows you to save and recall your custom sound settings for live or studio use.

What are the modulation options available on the Yamaha CS-20M?

The Yamaha CS-20M provides various modulation options, including LFO and envelope controls, which allow for detailed shaping of the sound's dynamics and character.

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha CS-20M Synthesizer.

Comparisons

  • The Yamaha CS-20M is compared to iconic synths like Minimoog, praised for its unique "glassiness" and bright sheen, distinct from other brands.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Vintage CS-20Ms are available for around $1,299, offering a more affordable entry into classic Yamaha sound compared to larger CS models.

    Source

User experience

  • Users appreciate the CS-20M's lead and pluck sounds, noting their bright Yamaha sheen as a standout feature.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The CS-20M's 35-pound build and limited patch memory make it less suitable for gigging, better suited for home studio use.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Yamaha CS-20m | Vintage Synth Explorer

vintagesynth.com

The Yamaha CS-20M Synthesizer stands out for its rich, bright tones and versatile sound design capabilities, making it a solid choice for bass and lead sounds. Its dual-VCOs and a resonant filter allow for a wide range of sonic exploration, appealing to both vintage enthusiasts and modern producers. However, the CS-20M is often considered a lighter alternative to its bigger siblings, lacking some depth and warmth found in more robust models like the CS-70M. Additionally, users have reported issues with drift in VCO 2, particularly in the initial warm-up period. Still, for those seeking a classic, budget-friendly analog synth, the CS-20M is a worthy contender.

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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Gerald Woodruffe uses Yamaha CS-20M Synthesizer

Gerald Woodruffe

Keyboardist

Black Sabbath

...
Verified via Monorail Music

Gerald Woodruffe is confirmed to use the Yamaha CS-20M Synthesizer, as documented by the Mono Staff on Monorail Music's listing for the album "Wonders Of The Underwater World."

Album Usage

The Yamaha CS-20M Synthesizer has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Yamaha CS-20M Synthesizer, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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1
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Roland CSQ-600 Audio Sequencers
1
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1
Yamaha CS-80
Yamaha CS-80 Synthesizers
1
Yamaha CS-30
Yamaha CS-30 Synthesizers
1
Yamaha SK20
Yamaha SK20 Synthesizers
1

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