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Description

The Yamaha DS55 is a versatile synthesizer that brings a world of sound exploration to musicians and producers alike. Whether you're creating lush soundscapes or punchy lead lines, this synthesizer offers a diverse array of sonic possibilities. With 61 velocity-sensitive keys, it provides an expressive playing experience that's ideal for both live performances and studio sessions. The DS55 is equipped with Yamaha's renowned FM synthesis technology, allowing you to craft intricate and dynamic sounds that stand out in any mix.

Designed for intuitive control, the DS55 features a user-friendly interface with easily accessible parameters that make sound shaping a breeze. Its robust library of presets ensures that you have a wide variety of sounds at your fingertips, from classic analog emulations to modern digital tones. Additionally, the synthesizer includes built-in effects such as reverb and chorus, adding depth and character to your compositions.

For musicians who love to customize their gear, the DS55 offers extensive MIDI capabilities, enabling seamless integration with your existing setup. Whether you're a seasoned synth enthusiast or just starting your journey into electronic music, the Yamaha DS55 provides a comprehensive platform for creativity.

Key Features:

  • 61 velocity-sensitive keys for expressive performance
  • Yamaha FM synthesis technology for detailed sound design
  • Intuitive interface with easily accessible sound parameters
  • Extensive library of presets covering a wide range of genres
  • Built-in effects including reverb and chorus for added depth
  • Comprehensive MIDI integration for versatile connectivity
Keyboards - review - repair

Keyboards - review - repair

YAMAHA DS 55

Video thumbnail for YAMAHA DS 55 by Keyboards - review - repair

YAMAHA DS 55

Keyboards - review - repair

Keyboards - review - repair

Video thumbnail for Yamaha DS55 FM Synth - quick demo by AreggerOrchestra

Yamaha DS55 FM Synth - quick demo

AreggerOrchestra

AreggerOrchestra

Video thumbnail for Yamaha DS55 FM Synth Presets Demo - Part 1 by Alexey7

Yamaha DS55 FM Synth Presets Demo - Part 1

Alexey7

Alexey7

Video thumbnail for Yamaha DS55 FM Synth Presets Demo - Part 2 by Alexey7

Yamaha DS55 FM Synth Presets Demo - Part 2

Alexey7

Alexey7

Video thumbnail for Yamaha EOS ds55 Digital Synthesizer keybaord (Review) by Wilsons Musical Instruments

Yamaha EOS ds55 Digital Synthesizer keybaord (Review)

Wilsons Musical Instruments

Wilsons Musical Instruments

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha DS55.

Features and functionality

  • The DS55's Delay and LFO features are noted to be underwhelming, suggesting potential areas for external enhancement.

    Source
  • The DS55 includes two banks of 100 presets and a user bank, offering a variety of cheesy FM sounds enhanced with reverb and chorus.

    Source
  • The factory reset procedure involves pressing Tune, Store, Start/stop, Select, and 0 for manual mode, a process not documented in the manual.

    Source
  • The self-test mode includes tests for RAM, battery, and specific hardware components like pitch bend and modulation ranges.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • The DS55 can use TX81Z-compatible editors for patch loading via sysex over MIDI, with YS Editor as a recommended tool.

    Source
  • It supports patches from models like DX21, DX27, DX100, and TX81Z, including additional waveforms from the TX81Z.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The DS55 shines when used with pedals, enhancing its otherwise lackluster onboard effects.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • Users find value in the DS55 for $150 with additional accessories like a stand, amp, and case included.

    Source
  • Recommended purchase price is under $150-$200, highlighting its role as an affordable entry into FM synthesis.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Some owners prefer using the DS55 over the Yamaha SY77 due to its simplicity and specific sound palette.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • The DS55 may enter an undocumented polychain mode causing MIDI to only play certain notes; a factory reset can resolve this issue.

    Source

User experience

  • Owners have encountered a hidden mode affecting MIDI performance, requiring community-sourced solutions for resolution.

    Source

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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Artist usage

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See how The Future Sound of London uses Yamaha DS55

The Future Sound of London

Music Producer

Vangelis & The Future Sound of London

...
Verified via Muzines

Accessit: RIAA amp Akai: S900, S1000, S1100, S1100EX samplers Alesis: ADAT digital multitrack (x2), BRC remote controller, AI-2 audio/video synchroniser, MIDIverb II (x2), Quadraverb (x2) Apple: Quadra 950 computer Atari: 1040ST computer running Emagic Creator sequencing software Audio Logic: 20001 digital sampler BBE: Sonic Maximiser 422A bel: BD-80 digital delay Digidesign: ProTools disk-based recording system (4-track version) Drawmer: DS201 Dual Gate E-mu Systems: Proteus/1 XR module, Vintage Keys module EMS: Synthi AKS synth Fostex: Model 3070 compressor/limiter Ibanez: DM1100 digital delay Jen: SX1000 synth Korg: DRV-1000 digital reverb, Wavestation A/D synth module LA Audio: MIDI gate Oberheim: Matrix 1000 synth module, OB8 synth OSC: Oscar monosynth Roland: D110 module, JX3P synth, MKS50 module, SH101 monosynth, TB303 bass synth, TR909 drum machine Tascam: 103 cassette deck Sony: CDP-770 CD player, DTC-1000ES DAT machine Soundtracs: IL3632 36-input mixing desk Tannoy: Little Gold monitors Technics: SL1210 Mk2 record deck Urei: monitors Yamaha: DS55 synth, NS10M monitors, Q2031 graphic EQ, SPX90 multi-FX unit, TX81Z synth module

Sony: BKE-9500 Editing Control Disk Unit Edit Desk PCM-7050 Digital Audio Recorder PVW-2650P Betacam SP Videocassette Player PVW-2800P Betacam SP Videocassette Recorder Monitors (x4)

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 DS55, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

E-mu Vintage Keys
E-mu Vintage Keys Sound Modules
1
Yamaha NS-10M
Yamaha NS-10M Active & Passive Monitors
1
EMS Synthi AKS
EMS Synthi AKS Synthesizers
1
Korg Wavestation A/D
Korg Wavestation A/D Synthesizers & Sound Modules
1
Sony PVW-2800P
Sony PVW-2800P Cassette Recorders & Duplicators
1
Sony PVW-2650P
Sony PVW-2650P Cassette Recorders & Duplicators
1

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