Yamaha DX27

$29.99 Price Tier: Budget

3.5 (14)

1 Critic Review

3 Reviews

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Page last updated Jun 03, 2026

Pricing and availability

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5.0 (2)

$29.99 7 available Used

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Average Price: $30

Budget/Beginner

$500

$1501+

Price Tier

In the Synthesizers category, Yamaha DX27 is priced in the Budget/Beginner range. This is great gear to get started with or for creators on a budget.

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Description

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Step into the world of classic digital synthesis with the Yamaha DX27. This synthesizer is part of Yamaha's legendary DX series, renowned for its groundbreaking implementation of FM synthesis. The DX27 is equipped with a robust 61-key keyboard, making it a versatile choice for both beginners and seasoned musicians. Its 8-note polyphony ensures that you can create complex and layered sounds without dropping notes, a feature that was quite advanced for its time.

The DX27 offers 192 preset voices, giving users a vast sonic palette right out of the box. These voices range from iconic electric pianos and basses to bells and pads, providing a diverse range of sounds for various musical genres. With its intuitive interface, this synthesizer allows for easy tweaking and customization of sounds, making it suitable for live performances and studio work alike.

The internal memory of the DX27 supports up to 24 user-programmable patches, allowing you to save your custom creations for future use. Its rugged build and straightforward design make it a reliable choice for musicians looking for a durable instrument with a classic edge.

Key Features:

61-key keyboard with velocity sensitivity
8-note polyphony for rich sound layering
192 preset voices and 24 user-programmable patches
FM synthesis engine for unique sound creation
MIDI compatibility for seamless integration with other instruments and software
Lightweight design for easy transport and setup

Product specs

Brand	Yamaha
Model	DX27 Programmable Algorithm Synthesizer
Finish	Black
Year	1985
Categories	Digital Synthesizers, Keyboard Synths
Analog / Digital	Digital
Key Size	Full Size
Keyboard Action	Synth Action
MIDI I/O	MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through
Number of Keys	61 Keys
Polyphony	8 Voices

FAQs

Is the Yamaha DX27 suitable for live performances?: The Yamaha DX27 is suitable for live performances, offering a full-size 61-key keyboard and MIDI connectivity for integration with other gear. However, it lacks built-in effects and speakers, so external amplification and effects may be necessary for optimal live use.
What type of synthesis does the Yamaha DX27 use?: The Yamaha DX27 uses digital FM synthesis, which allows for a wide range of sound creation possibilities, including classic electric piano and bell tones characteristic of the 1980s.
How does the Yamaha DX27 compare to the DX7 in terms of features?: The Yamaha DX27 features the same FM synthesis engine as the DX7 but with a simplified interface and fewer performance controls, making it more accessible for beginners while still providing rich sound capabilities.
Can the Yamaha DX27 be used with modern MIDI equipment?: Yes, the Yamaha DX27 can be used with modern MIDI equipment as it includes MIDI input, output, and through ports, allowing it to interface with contemporary digital audio workstations and MIDI controllers.
What is the polyphony of the Yamaha DX27?: The Yamaha DX27 offers 8-voice polyphony, enabling you to play up to eight notes simultaneously, which is ideal for creating layered sounds and harmonies.

Videos

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Eric Nycolas

YAMAHA DX27 [Demo Video]

Eric Nycolas

Yamaha DX27 Sound Design Demo

SnowMetal

Yamaha DX-27 vintage synth review

Stephen Mendes

Yamaha DX27 review and sound exploration

Yateveo

Yamaha DX27

Musicnectar

The Iconic Sound Of A 14-bit Synth - Yamaha DX27

vvundertone

Yamaha DX27 - Do you know how to access ALL the 192 PRESET sounds ?

Stephen Mendes

Yamaha DX27 Piano Bells

Chris Music

Reviews

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PROS

Ideal for learning dynamics of Frequency Modulated synthesizers
Capable of producing solid bass sounds
Offers a hands-on experience for beginners
Can lead to inspirational creations when clocked via MIDI
Easier to program than its 6-op counterparts
Retains quality Yamaha sound chips for authentic tones

CONS

Considered the most bare-bone among DX synths
Factory sound bank not very inspiring
Programming can become tiresome over time
Lacks the complexity and features of the DX7

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha DX27.

Setup and maintenance

0 0

The DX27 may soon need a battery replacement; it's a straightforward process for those comfortable with minor electronics work.
Source

Features and functionality

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The DX27 features a 4-operator FM synth engine, offering less richness than the 6-operator DX7, but still provides a distinct 80s digital sound.
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Comparisons

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The Yamaha DX21 offers a chorus effect and splittable keyboard, while the DX100 is battery-operated with mini keys, both potentially preferable over the DX27.
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0 0

The Korg DS-8 provides Yamaha FM synthesis with a more user-friendly interface and built-in multi-effects, making it easier to edit than the DX series.
Source

Software and compatibility

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For TX81Z users on Windows, a specific editor can simplify Yamaha's FM editing, offering a better experience than costly alternatives like Midiquest.
Source

Critic Reviews

Yamaha DX27 Synthesizer (1985) | Wolf Review

wolfarchitects.design

The Yamaha DX27 stands as a budget-friendly entry in the DX series, offering full-sized keys and robust build quality at a low price point. However, its dated brown design and lack of layering capabilities make it less desirable compared to its siblings. While it shares some components with more famous models, its minimalistic design lacks memorable features. Ideal for collectors filling out a full DX set, the DX27 remains an affordable option for those seeking basic FM synthesis without the bells and whistles. Overall, it's a functional yet uninspiring choice in the vintage synthesizer market.

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Full Review

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3.5 out of 5

Based on 3 Reviews and 14 Ratings

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jhon_shepherd

407

about 7 years ago

Intro To FM Synthesis

Nothing about this synthesizer screams must have for most seasoned synth Jedi, And understandably so, Its probably the most bare bone of the DX synths available. But wait, before we file it as poop I just want to express that this is a critical piece of gear for those that are wanting a hands on experience to learn the dynamics of Frequency Modulated synthesizers. In this regard, less is indeed more while it may be just awkward enough to make you scratch your head, Its easy to recover and churn out some nice sounds without being overwhelmed (The DX7 for example.) Also, While not very inspiring from the sound bank, If you've the ability to clock it via MIDI from a 16 step sequencer, It can lead to inspirational creations. I paid $20 for it to a friend who found it in a dumpster. Stil my first real synth.

vladsuppish

159

about 10 years ago

Nice little synth for that 'chrome & rain' 80's sound and for learning FM synthesis

One of the offsprings which came after the enormous success of DX7. Not that mighty and large and famous, but the sound... The heart of the sound is still the same Yamaha's chips and John Chowning's phase modulation of sine wave operators (correct - they misinterpreted it for frequency modulation which is much messy with harmonic content and has slightly less bright sound). Also this 4-operator littluns (DX11, 21, 100) are a little bit easier to program than their 6-op biguns. Still use it, still rocks, but a bit tired of programming now. Sounds even greater with effects, guitar pedals particularly. So if you want that 'Neo-Tokyo 2021' (1986) sound - that is the way to go! And you'd better forget about factory presets - no cheesy rhodes' whining in the future! PS: It was my first synth, heh. Have some fond memories, so it's hard for me to be objective ;)