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Average Price: $2,136

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$500

$1501+

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Description

Immerse yourself in the sonic landscape of the Yamaha CS-30, a synthesizer that blends vintage charm with the versatility needed by modern musicians. A true craftsman's tool, this synth offers unparalleled control over your sound, allowing for deep exploration and innovation. Its 2 VCOS with separate outputs provide a rich foundation, while the voltage-controlled resonant filters carve out the sonic space for your musical expression. Whether you're crafting the next chart-topper or exploring uncharted sonic territories, the CS-30 stands ready as your faithful companion.

Key Features:

  • 2 VCOS with separate outputs for rich and dynamic sound synthesis
  • 2 voltage-controlled resonant filters for precise tonal shaping
  • 3 envelopes for intricate sound modulation
  • Ring Modulator for creating complex sounds and textures
  • 8-step single pattern sequencer for crafting sequences with ease
  • CV / Gate control for integrating with other modular gear

Product specs

Brand Yamaha
Model CS-30 Monophonic Synthesizer
Finish Black
Year 1977 - 1980
Made In Japan
Categories Analog Synths, Keyboard Synths
Analog / Digital Analog
Key Size Full Size
Keyboard Action Synth Action
Number of Keys 44 Keys
Polyphony 1 Voice

FAQs

Is the Yamaha CS-30 synthesizer polyphonic or monophonic?

The Yamaha CS-30 is a monophonic synthesizer, meaning it can play only one note at a time, which is ideal for lead lines and bass sequences.

What are the standout features of the Yamaha CS-30's sound engine?

The Yamaha CS-30 features dual VCOs, a comprehensive modulation matrix, and an onboard eight-step sequencer, allowing for complex sound design and sequencing capabilities.

Does the Yamaha CS-30 have a built-in sequencer?

Yes, the Yamaha CS-30 includes an onboard eight-step analog sequencer, which allows for creating and playing back sequences directly on the synthesizer.

How many keys does the Yamaha CS-30 have, and what is the key size?

The Yamaha CS-30 has 44 full-size keys, providing a comfortable playing experience for synthesists familiar with traditional keyboard layouts.

Can the Yamaha CS-30 filter external audio signals?

Yes, the Yamaha CS-30 can process external audio signals through its filters, allowing you to modulate and shape the sound of other instruments or audio sources.

Alex Ball

Alex Ball

Yamaha's Coolest Monosynth

Video thumbnail for Yamaha's Coolest Monosynth by Alex Ball

Yamaha's Coolest Monosynth

Alex Ball

Alex Ball

Video thumbnail for yamaha cs-30 demo by DavidH

yamaha cs-30 demo

DavidH

DavidH

Video thumbnail for Yamaha CS 30 Demo (CrossMod, RingMod, BPF effects) by Roberto Raineri-Seith

Yamaha CS 30 Demo (CrossMod, RingMod, BPF effects)

Roberto Raineri-Seith

Roberto Raineri-Seith

Video thumbnail for YAMAHA CS-30 - Ambient chillout music 【SYNTH DEMO】 by synth4ever

YAMAHA CS-30 - Ambient chillout music 【SYNTH DEMO】

synth4ever

synth4ever

Video thumbnail for Yamaha CS-30 by rimela

Yamaha CS-30

rimela

rimela

Video thumbnail for First Patch - Yamaha CS-30 | Red Bull Music Academy by Red Bull Music Academy

First Patch - Yamaha CS-30 | Red Bull Music Academy

Red Bull Music Academy

Red Bull Music Academy

Video thumbnail for YAMAHA CS-30 - Synth Review, Sounds and Demo | Vintage Analog Monosynth by synth4ever

YAMAHA CS-30 - Synth Review, Sounds and Demo | Vintage Analog Monosynth

synth4ever

synth4ever

Video thumbnail for 1977 Yamaha CS30 deep dive. Vincent Presley’s favorite synthesizers. Most unique 27 out of 140 used. by Vincent Presley

1977 Yamaha CS30 deep dive. Vincent Presley’s favorite synthesizers. Most unique 27 out of 140 used.

Vincent Presley

Vincent Presley

Video thumbnail for Yamaha CS-30 (1979) - Werkstatt Matlak by Werkstatt Matlak

Yamaha CS-30 (1979) - Werkstatt Matlak

Werkstatt Matlak

Werkstatt Matlak

Video thumbnail for 1977 Yamaha CS30 by Benge - Topic

1977 Yamaha CS30

Benge - Topic

Benge - Topic

Reviews

PROS

  • Limitless modulation, filter, and envelope possibilities

  • Duophonic capabilities with CV/Gate modifications

  • Each oscillator can output to separate filters/envelopes for a huge sound

  • 2 multimode filters enhance sonic versatility

  • 3 full ADSRs with multiple routing options (regular, reverse, 10x longer modes)

  • LFO can produce different waveforms simultaneously

  • Features both cross modulation and ring modulation

  • Inclusion of an 8-step sequencer adds playability

  • Can tightly sync with DAWs (e.g., Logic Pro) via MIDI converters

  • Unique vintage appeal with modern potential

CONS

  • Initial learning curve can be confusing

  • Requires external modifications (e.g., CV/Gate) for full potential

  • Lacks comprehensive documentation, making some features obscure

  • Without modifications, strictly monophonic

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha CS-30.

Features and functionality

  • The Yamaha CS-30 allows routing a sine wave directly to the VCA as a sound source, bypassing filters for unique textures.

    Source
  • The sequencer can be modified to accept external clocking, enhancing its usefulness beyond the factory design.

    Source
  • The CS-30's external input is more powerful than the CS-15, allowing modulation routing flexibility across different sections.

    Source

User experience

  • The dual-channel architecture is initially complex, with VCO waveshapes selected in the VCF section, requiring time to master.

    Source
  • Switching the VCO to "Sequencer" mode can resolve tuning issues, allowing correct playback of the VCO and sine wave.

    Source
  • The CS-30 can be perceived almost as a semi-modular synth due to its extensive routing flexibility and switches.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The CS-30 is likened to a CS-15 with enhancements like an extra envelope and sequencer, though some find the sequencer less useful without mods.

    Source
  • Owners note that the CS-30's envelope retrigger options, oscillator modulation from VCO 2 to 1, and additional LFO shapes surpass the CS-15.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Owners find the CS-30 excels at experimental sound design, with its 8-step sequencer perfect for funky basslines and odd melodies.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • A simple modification can change the sequencer tempo trigger out into a seq in, expanding its connectivity options.

    Source
  • Some owners suggest modifications are needed to make the CS-30 more competitive, similar to the CS-15.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Oscillators require a 30-minute warm-up for stable tuning; refer to the service manual for persistent micro-tuning issues.

    Source

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 4 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
amptek

a vintage synth

a big monster, a classic synth from end of 70s

jimmarchi1

awesome, more reviewing in your next review

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Anthony Marinelli uses Yamaha CS-30

Anthony Marinelli

Keyboardist, Composer

...
Verified via YouTube

In Anthony Marinelli's studio tour video, the Yamaha CS-30 synthesizer is prominently featured at the 23:34 mark, as shown in the video titled "My Synth Studio Revealed | Studio Tour 2025," available on the YouTube channel Anthony Marinelli Music.

See how Edward Ka-Spel uses Yamaha CS-30

Edward Ka-Spel

Singer, Keyboardist

The Legendary Pink Dots

...
Verified via Chaos Control Digizine

Edward Ka-Spel mentions owning and using a Yamaha CS-30 in a few interviews; this synthesizer is also mentioned in the Bandcamp notes for his album The Berlin Tapes 1981.

Interviewer: What are some of your favorite synthesizers?

Ka-Spel: Pretty much anything by Korg. Still very attached to my old Yamaha CS30 [...]

M

Mark Shreeve

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Redshift

...
Verified via Soundonsound

In this interview, Mark's use of the Yamaha CS30 is mentioned: Mark's equipment comprised a solitary Yamaha CS30 analogue monosynth (which he retains and uses to this day)

J

John Beck

Keyboardist

The Alan Parsons Project

...
Verified via Photo

Diagram of John Beck's keyboard rig printed in the November 1986 issue of International Musician.

See how Juju & Jordash uses Yamaha CS-30

Juju & Jordash

Music Producer

...
Verified via fabric london

"Can you run us through your synth collection and pick out your favourites and tell us why you prefer them? Jordan: Roland Juno 60 Korg Polysix Yamaha CS-30"

See how Gerald Woodruffe uses Yamaha CS-30

Gerald Woodruffe

Keyboardist

Black Sabbath

...
Verified via Monorail Music

Gerald Woodruffe is confirmed to use the Yamaha CS-30 synthesizer, as documented in the studio equipment list for his album "Wonders Of The Underwater World," highlighted by Monorail Music.

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-30, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Yamaha DX7 Synthesizers
3
Roland Jupiter-8
Roland Jupiter-8 Synthesizers
3
Roland Juno-106
Roland Juno-106 Synthesizers
3
Roland Juno-60
Roland Juno-60 Synthesizers
2
Roland SH-2000
Roland SH-2000 Synthesizers
2
Hohner Clavinet D6
Hohner Clavinet D6 Vintage & Electric Pianos
2
Apple Logic Pro
Apple Logic Pro DAW Software
2
Yamaha CS-60
Yamaha CS-60 Synthesizers
2

Community setups

Show yours
hanzvolt

hanzvolt

Gear IQ 89

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