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Description

Dive into the realm of analog synthesis with the Yamaha CS-40m, a piece of history that brings the warmth of vintage sound into the modern era. This synthesizer is not just an instrument; it's a time machine, capable of duophonic explorations that rival the classics. With its 2 VCOs per voice, offering triangle, square, and sawtooth waveforms, the CS-40m provides a palate of sounds that can cater to the nostalgic, the experimental, and everyone in between. Whether you're crafting ambient soundscapes or pulsating dance tracks, the CS-40m's multi-mode VCF filter and comprehensive ADSR envelope controls offer unparalleled versatility. Don't just play music; create legacies with the Yamaha CS-40m.

Key Features:

  • Duophonic capability for complex sound layering
  • 2 VCOs per voice with triangle, square, and sawtooth waveforms for diverse sonic possibilities
  • Multi-mode VCF filter for shaping your sound with precision
  • 20 patches / presets for quick access to your favorite sounds
  • ADSR envelope controls for detailed sound sculpting
  • CV/Trigger outputs for easy integration with other gear

Product specs

Brand Yamaha
Model CS-40M Duophonic Synthesizer
Finish Black
Year 1979 - 1986
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 2 Voices

FAQs

Is the Yamaha CS-40m synthesizer polyphonic?

The Yamaha CS-40m is a duophonic synthesizer, meaning it can play two notes simultaneously, allowing for limited polyphony.

What type of synthesis does the Yamaha CS-40m use?

The Yamaha CS-40m uses analog synthesis, providing warm, rich tones characteristic of vintage synthesizers from its era.

How many keys does the Yamaha CS-40m have?

The Yamaha CS-40m features a 44-key full-size keyboard with synth action, offering a compact yet expressive playing experience.

What are the standout features of the Yamaha CS-40m's sound engine?

The Yamaha CS-40m's sound engine includes two VCOs per voice, a versatile filter section, and extensive modulation options, allowing for a range of classic analog sounds.

Is the Yamaha CS-40m suitable for live performance?

Yes, the Yamaha CS-40m is suitable for live performance, offering robust build quality and real-time control features that are ideal for expressive playing on stage.

musictrackjp

musictrackjp

YAMAHA CS40M Demo&Review [English Captions]

Video thumbnail for YAMAHA CS40M Demo&Review [English Captions] by musictrackjp

YAMAHA CS40M Demo&Review [English Captions]

musictrackjp

musictrackjp

Video thumbnail for Yamaha Synth Space History | CS40M | Dom Sigalas by Yamaha Synths Official

Yamaha Synth Space History | CS40M | Dom Sigalas

Yamaha Synths Official

Yamaha Synths Official

Video thumbnail for Yamaha CS-40M by analoguecrazy4

Yamaha CS-40M

analoguecrazy4

analoguecrazy4

Video thumbnail for YAMAHA CS-40M - Review, Sounds & Demo | Analog Synthesizer by synth4ever

YAMAHA CS-40M - Review, Sounds & Demo | Analog Synthesizer

synth4ever

synth4ever

Video thumbnail for Vangelis Choice - Yamaha CS-40M - Finally Revealed! by Andy Whitmore

Vangelis Choice - Yamaha CS-40M - Finally Revealed!

Andy Whitmore

Andy Whitmore

Video thumbnail for YAMAHA CS-40M - Ambient Chillout Jam |  Analog Synth Demo by synth4ever

YAMAHA CS-40M - Ambient Chillout Jam | Analog Synth Demo

synth4ever

synth4ever

Video thumbnail for Beyond the CS-80 | Exploring the Yamaha CS-40M's rich analog textures | 1979 by Nostalgic Explorer

Beyond the CS-80 | Exploring the Yamaha CS-40M's rich analog textures | 1979

Nostalgic Explorer

Nostalgic Explorer

Video thumbnail for Benge on the Yamaha CS40M by Memetune Studio

Benge on the Yamaha CS40M

Memetune Studio

Memetune Studio

Video thumbnail for Yamaha CS-40m Demo - No Talking by Michael Hightower

Yamaha CS-40m Demo - No Talking

Michael Hightower

Michael Hightower

Reviews

PROS

  • Big, organic sound with unique architecture

  • Multimode filter with exceptional resonant high pass

  • Versatile with 2 osc and 2 sub per voice

  • Duophonic, offering rich polyphonic textures

  • Rare and durable build quality

  • High flexibility with modulation options and CV connectivity

  • Easy to save and recall patches

  • Excellent for ambient and evolving sounds

  • More affordable entry into vintage Yamaha CS line

  • Classy appearance

CONS

  • Very heavy and physically large

  • Limited patch memory, described as "usable" but not extensive

  • Hz/Volt sequencing can be challenging

  • Sound may be too "fizzy" for some tastes

  • Saved patches can't be altered by most knobs

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha CS-40m.

Features and functionality

  • The CS-40M's single LFO can modulate VCOs, VCF, and VCA using different waveforms simultaneously for complex modulations.

    Source
  • Includes a multimode VCF with LP/BP/HP options, modulated via various LFO waveforms for diverse sound shaping.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Known for creating the massive synth riff on TCM's "Trip Like I Do," offering a mix of dusty, earthy, and aggressive tones.

    Source
  • Ideal for analog textures, noise, and effects, appealing to those seeking unique sound design capabilities.

    Source

User experience

  • The synth's size and weight are substantial, making it a notable presence in any setup.

    Source
  • Some users recommend purchasing the CS-40M immediately if found, due to its limited availability and unique characteristics.

    Source

Comparisons

  • The Yamaha CS-40M is often highlighted for its rarity and desirability compared to the easier-to-acquire MatrixBrute and Dominion 1.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Blast from the past: Yamaha CS-40M | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

The Yamaha CS-40M, though overshadowed in its time, emerges as a hidden gem in synth history. Offering a duophonic mode and a wealth of modulation options, it's a versatile tool for creating complex sounds. Its standout features include a unique LFO with five waveforms and a ring modulator, reminiscent of the CS-80/60. While its polyphony is limited, the CS-40M compensates with robust sound design capabilities. Despite being overlooked upon release, it now commands respect for its innovative design. However, its lack of popularity then means few software alternatives exist today.

positive

4.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 3 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
mikefiction

It's HUGE and sounds pretty HUGE

It's a duophonic monster. It sleeps in your closet and waits. Once you pull it out you're like "wow, I forgot I had this thing!' and then you sell it on ebay because they go for way too much money. But it sounds great. Especially the multimode filter. bandpass on this thing was so good sounding.

It's not Moog bass Huge - it's Yamaha CS Huge. Kinda fizzy sometimes and did I mention huge? Hard to describe. Has je nes sais quoi. It's also physically heavy and large.

Alsy has pretty crappy but usable patch memory.

I sold it in my studio purge. Got it for cheap and now they cost too much for me to ever think of picking up another one. Also it's hz/volt of you want to sequence it.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Aphex Twin uses Yamaha CS-40m

Aphex Twin

Music Producer

Mike & Rich

...
Verified via reddit

Many clues about the equipment for the production of "Collapse EP" are present in the video frames of the 2018 track titled "T69 Collapse". These frames are images that represent the transcription of the Cirklon sequencer files system about the synthesizers used on each Cirklon midi/cv channel tracks.

See how Vangelis uses Yamaha CS-40m

Vangelis

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Aphrodite's Child

...
Verified via Google Books

According to this book Vangelis used a Yamaha CS40M.

See how The Crystal Method uses Yamaha CS-40m

The Crystal Method

Music Producer

The Crystal Method & Bubba Sparxxx

...
Verified via KeyboardMag

"We were bringing out some of these old synths that we hadn’t used — the Minimoog and the Yamaha CS-40. We’ve always used the Roland Jupiter-6; it’s pretty much a workhorse. It was getting back into that world."

See how Front 242 uses Yamaha CS-40m

Front 242

Music Producer

...
Verified via Herrebout

Per "Rock This Town" publication, special issue 1991:

In 1991, the setup was as follows: [Rock This Town special issue 1991]

Sound studio: Analog Synths: Roland System 100/100M/101 (+Roland Midi interface MPU-101);YAMAHA CS-40M (in the Take One video); Oberheim Matrix 1000; Digital Synths: Yamaha DX-7 (2); Ensonic VFX; Roland DDR30; Yamaha tg77; Korg Wavestation; Sequencer: Atari 1040 (Sequ. Cubase 2.0); Samplers: AkaiS9000 (2); AkaiS1000 (8Mg + Hard Drive Mfile 44); AkaiS1000PB (4Mg); Emulator II; akai 1100, e-mu Procussion, roland s-10 for live use @ the mixing desk; Effects: Lexicon 480L; Yamaha SPX90 II (2); Roland SRV-2000; Roland SDE-3000; Alesis Midiverb II; Alesis Quadraverb; ART DRX; spx 1000 (x2); Eventide h3000 se; Mixing: Table TAC Scorpion 32/16; Recorder TASCAM MS16 tracks; Recorder DAT Luxman; Speakers Yamaha NS 10M pro ATC SCM50; QUAD ampli (for NS-10M); Diverse: compressor/limiter, noise gate, parametric eq. Live: Backline: Akai S9000; Roland DDR30; Simons & Roland Pads; Emulator II; TASCAM238 8

Graphic Studio: Commodore Amiga 2500 (6Mg + Hard Drive 40Mg); Commodore Amiga 500; Digitizer SNAPSHOT; Camera Sony CCD V-200E; Laserprint NEC Silentwriter LC890; Monitor NEC Multisync 2A.

See how Plaid uses Yamaha CS-40m

Plaid

Music Producer

...
Verified via MusicRadar

the CS-40m can be seen on page 1 and 2

See how Midge Ure uses Yamaha CS-40m

Midge Ure

Guitarist, Singer

Ultravox

...
Verified via YouTube

can be seen centerstage on TOTP infront of Midge Ure, it was supposedly also used by Ultravox for the refrain of "Vienna" and at the beginning of "Western Promise" and during the later parts of "Sleepwalk"

See how Dr Luke uses Yamaha CS-40m

Dr Luke

Drummer, Keyboardist

Saturday Night Live Band

...
Verified via Photo

The Yamaha CS-40m is visible in the background of a photo featuring Dr. Luke, as shown in the user-uploaded image on Icymag.

See how Luke Million uses Yamaha CS-40m

Luke Million

Keyboardist, Music Producer

The Swiss

...
Verified via YouTube

Luke Million uses a Yamaha CS-40m to play the synth brass part in his rendition of the Blade Runner End Titles, as seen in this video from his studio.

See how The BBC Radiophonic Workshop uses Yamaha CS-40m

The BBC Radiophonic Workshop

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via Whitefiles

These are the synthesizers that the Radiophonic Workshop had back in 1985.

See how Jimi Sumen uses Yamaha CS-40m

Jimi Sumen

Singer, Guitarist

Classix Nouveaux

...
Verified via Discogs

The credits for the album, Between Orient And Accidents, list the Yamaha CS-40m.

See how Jonathan Gibbs uses Yamaha CS-40m

Jonathan Gibbs

Composer

...
Verified

"I've been working on a programme called 'An Alien's View Of Earth' which involves a lot of slow motion footage. The Yamaha DX7's been ideal for that, because it can produce some slowly developing organic sounds. In this studio I've also got a Roland Jupiter 4, a Yamaha CS40M and some Wavemaker modules with an EMS DK2 keyboard. The Yamaha was quite useful when we got it, because although it was only duophonic it had programmable pre-sets and a cassette dump for sounds. Elizabeth Parker did some of the sounds for Blake's Seven on it, which was one of the first things she did at the Workshop."

See how Webster Lewis uses Yamaha CS-40m

Webster Lewis

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Herbie Hancock (band)

...
Verified via Herbie Hancock

Used on Kimiko Kasai and Herbie Hancock's Butterfly, as specified in Herbie Hancock’s Electronic Instrument Glossary from September 14, 2016.

Yamaha CS-40 – Released in the late 1970s, this analog synthesizer could be played as a two-note duo-phonic instrument or be used in ‘unison’ mode which allowed for monophonic use. Webster Lewis used this instrument on the 1979 album Kimiko Kasai With Herbie Hancock: Butterfly.

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-40m, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Roland Jupiter-4
Roland Jupiter-4 Synthesizers
3
Roland System 100M
Roland System 100M Modular Synthesizers
2
Yamaha DX7
Yamaha DX7 Synthesizers
2
Yamaha CS-80
Yamaha CS-80 Synthesizers
1
PPG Wave 2.3
PPG Wave 2.3 Synthesizers
1
ARP Odyssey Rev3
ARP Odyssey Rev3 Synthesizers
1
Roland SDE-3000
Roland SDE-3000 Effects Processors
1

Community setups

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synthee

synthee

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