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Description
Experience the legendary sound of the Yamaha DX7-IID, a synthesizer that has made its mark in music history. This iconic instrument is a staple for both professional musicians and synth enthusiasts, offering a blend of classic FM synthesis and modern digital capabilities. With its 61-key velocity-sensitive keyboard, the DX7-IID delivers expressive playability, making it ideal for any genre from pop to experimental music.
The DX7-IID is celebrated for its robust sound engine, featuring 6-operator FM synthesis that allows for intricate sound shaping. This synthesizer provides a rich palette of tones, from lush pads to cutting leads. Musicians can customize and store their sounds with 64 internal memory patches, while additional storage is available via RAM cartridges, making it perfect for live performances and studio sessions alike.
Connectivity is seamless with MIDI support, enabling integration with other gear and DAWs. The user interface is designed for ease of use, with a clear LCD display and intuitive controls for quick adjustments. Whether you're a seasoned synth player or a newcomer, the Yamaha DX7-IID offers a balance of vintage charm and modern functionality.
Key Features:
- 61-key velocity-sensitive keyboard
- 6-operator FM synthesis for complex sound design
- 64 internal memory patches with additional RAM cartridge storage
- MIDI connectivity for integration with other instruments and software
- LCD display for user-friendly operation
- Durable build quality suitable for studio or stage use
Product specs
| Brand | Yamaha |
| Model | DX7IID 16-Voice Synthesizer |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 1986 - 1989 |
| Made In | Japan |
| 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 | 16 Voices |
FAQs
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What are the key features of the Yamaha DX7-IID's sound engine?
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The Yamaha DX7-IID features a digital FM synthesis engine with 16 voices of polyphony, offering a wide range of complex and dynamic sounds suitable for various music genres.
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How does the Yamaha DX7-IID differ from the original DX7?
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The DX7-IID includes improvements such as split and layer capabilities, enhanced MIDI functionalities, and a more robust build compared to the original DX7.
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Is the Yamaha DX7-IID suitable for live performances?
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Yes, the Yamaha DX7-IID is well-suited for live performances, thanks to its robust build, full-size keys, and versatile sound capabilities, allowing performers to easily switch between different sounds and settings on stage.
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Does the Yamaha DX7-IID support MIDI integration?
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The Yamaha DX7-IID supports MIDI integration with MIDI input, output, and through ports, making it compatible with other MIDI-equipped devices for seamless connectivity in a studio or live setup.
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Can the Yamaha DX7-IID be used for modern music production?
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Yes, the Yamaha DX7-IID's digital FM synthesis is still highly valued in modern music production for its unique sound textures and versatility, making it a great tool for producers looking to incorporate classic synth sounds into contemporary tracks.
Videos
musictrackjp
YAMAHA DX7IID Demo & Review
YAMAHA DX7IID Demo & Review
musictrackjp
Yamaha DX7 IID - Performance patches
roboticrealm
Yamaha DX7 IID - more performance/dual patches
roboticrealm
Yamaha DX7 IID
Fabian Bedoy
Reviews
PROS
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Authentic 80s Yamaha FM sounds for iconic sparkle and pluck
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Built like a tank, highly durable
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Versatile sound tweaking options for personalized music creation
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Rare II-D version adds uniqueness to collections
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Slight hiss adds a pleasurable, vintage audio quality
CONS
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Programming patches is complex and challenging
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Keyfeel lacks weighting, feels cheap
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Sensitive to ground loops, requiring careful setup
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Loses presets if the internal battery dies, complicating setup
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Requires extensive maintenance and knowledge to restore or keep operational
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha DX7-IID.
Features and functionality
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The DX7IID allows for split and layer capabilities, enhancing versatility, whereas the DX7s is limited to single mode sounds.
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The DX7IID includes a Unison Mode that significantly thickens the sound, a feature not available on the DX7s or the original DX7.
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The DX7IID can transmit MIDI velocities up to 127, though achieving this through physical playing can be difficult without using external MIDI signals.
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The DX7IID's layering capability is appreciated for its ease of use compared to software alternatives, which require running multiple instances.
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Use cases and applications
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With layering, the DX7IID's 16-note polyphony is reduced to 8, impacting performance in complex arrangements.
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The DX7IID is highly regarded for its ability to produce rich bass sounds and beautiful pads, making it suitable for various musical styles.
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There's growing interest in the DX7IID as a collectible piece due to its historical significance and classic FM sound, despite the availability of digital alternatives.
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User experience
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Owners report that the DX7IID's buttons are quieter and nicer compared to earlier models, improving usability.
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Many owners praise the DX7IID for its keybed, describing it as robust and well-built, despite its age.
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Some owners report that the DX7IID can still be musically useful despite cosmetic issues like cracked panels or stuck keys, as functionality remains intact.
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Comparisons
Mods and upgrades
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It's noted that adding external effects like reverb and delay significantly enhances the DX7IID's sound, especially for ambient music.
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Other
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The DX7IID is considered more than just a nostalgia piece due to its lasting sound quality and durability, still holding a prominent place in many setups.
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Value and pricing
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Recent sales indicate a fully functioning DX7IID with minor cosmetic damage can fetch around $600, reflecting a rising trend in FM synth prices.
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There's speculation that DX7 models, including the DX7IID, might appreciate further, potentially reaching prices as high as $1500 in the future.
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4.5 out of 5
Based on 4 Reviews and 15 Ratings
205
a very rough gem
The DX engine makes amazing noises, but good luck designing patches for it. Also the keyfeel on this thing sucks. It has velocity sensitivity and aftertouch, but there's no weighting and it feels like you're bending plastic forks.
But again, Yamaha FM sounds are the sounds of the 80s, and if you need some sparkle or pluck, it's tough to beat a DX-7.
249
Holds up, still a classic
I bought this in 2018. Was introduced to the DX7 by music teacher in junior high and played the DX7IID in my high school music lab. The sounds were pretty cutting and unique back then and I remember being impressed by it. If you find the treasure trove of online patches (or better yet, can tweak your own), this board can look and sound quite current. Plus, it ruled the '80s.
479
The real FM synth from the late 80s.
The Yamaha DX 7 II-D version is pretty rare and not that popular as the DX 7 version. Sounds very nice. This is my first outboard synth.
Artist usage
Add artist
Martin Gore played an Emu Emax HD/SE and a Yamaha DX7 IID during the "Music for the Masses" tour.
Alan Wilder played a Yamaha DX7 IID during the "Music for the Masses" tour.
In the September 1987 issue of "Keyboard Magazine," the bottom middle column on page 31 mentioned that Danny Elfman owned a Yamaha DX7-IID, as well as two Yamaha TX816 modules. The article was authored by Bob Doerschuk and Jeff Burger.
Andy Fletcher played an E-mu Emax HD/SE and a Yamaha DX7 IID during the "Music for the Masses" tour.
" The Fairlight is really great for the backing 'band' - drums, bass and orchestration - but there is always a need for one or two parts that are constantly, harmonically changing; for these I love the feel of the DX7 MkII."
In a YouTube video, Aeroplane demonstrates the Yamaha DX7-IID synthesizer, highlighting its capability to play two sounds simultaneously on one keyboard.
According to a comment by Michael Hädrich's daughter on Reddit, Michael sold his original Yamaha DX7 to purchase the newer Yamaha DX7-IID, which he currently owns.
"Here is his tape again with the DX7ii. He used the first version for Subways of your Mind but sold it to get the newer one."
Synths include: ARP Sequencer model 1611, Roland JD800, Emulator II, Yamaha DX7-II, Oberheim OBX-a, ARP Odyssey, OSCar, and Korg VC10 vocoder as well as a Fender Rhodes Mark I and Leslie 760 solid state.
Se puede ver en el video a Marcelo (tecladista vestido de blanco) frente a un soporte triple con este sinte ubicado justo en el medio.
In the white files via 1987 The Computer & The Sound House which showcase Peter Howell's studio, there is evidence of his use of the Yamaha DX7-IID, as shown in the image from the BBC Radiophonic Workshop.
Album Usage
The Yamaha DX7-IID 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 DX7-IID, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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Community setups
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