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Average Price: $176
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Description
Step into the world of digital synthesis with the YAMAHA DX9, a classic piece of musical technology that offers a unique sound experience for musicians and producers alike. This vintage synthesizer hails from the 1980s, delivering a distinctive tone through its 4-operator FM synthesis, which allows for a broad range of sound design possibilities. Unlike its larger siblings in the DX series, the DX9 provides a more straightforward approach to FM synthesis, making it accessible for both seasoned sound designers and those new to the world of synthesizers.
With 61 full-sized keys, the DX9 offers a professional playing experience, suitable for live performances and studio sessions. Its velocity-sensitive keyboard enhances expressiveness, catering to dynamic musical pieces. While it may not have the extensive features of its more complex counterparts, the DX9 still boasts a remarkable array of preset sounds, giving users a starting point to explore and create unique sonic landscapes. Perfect for those looking to add a touch of retro flair to their music, the DX9 remains a beloved tool in the arsenal of electronic musicians.
The DX9's robust build and intuitive interface make it an enduring choice for musicians who appreciate the simplicity and charm of vintage gear. Whether you're crafting ambient textures or punchy bass lines, this synthesizer is ready to inspire your next musical project.
Key Features:
- 4-operator FM synthesis engine
- 61 full-sized velocity-sensitive keys
- Wide array of preset sounds
- Classic 1980s vintage design
- Intuitive interface for ease of use
Product specs
| Brand | Yamaha |
| Model | DX9 Programmable Algorithm Synthesizer |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 1983 |
| 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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Is the Yamaha DX9 polyphonic or monophonic?
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The Yamaha DX9 is a polyphonic synthesizer with 16 voices, allowing you to play multiple notes simultaneously.
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What type of sound synthesis does the Yamaha DX9 use?
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The Yamaha DX9 utilizes digital FM (Frequency Modulation) synthesis, which allows for creating complex and dynamic sounds.
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How does the Yamaha DX9 differ from the Yamaha DX7?
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The Yamaha DX9 has fewer operators and algorithms compared to the DX7, which results in a more limited sound design capability. However, it still offers a range of FM synthesis features.
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Does the Yamaha DX9 have MIDI capabilities?
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Yes, the Yamaha DX9 features MIDI Input, Output, and Through, enabling it to connect with other MIDI-compatible devices for expanded control and integration.
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What is the keyboard action of the Yamaha DX9 like?
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The Yamaha DX9 features a synth action keyboard with 61 full-size keys, providing a responsive and smooth playing experience suitable for various playing styles.
Videos
syrk76
Yamaha DX9 - for sale - sound - demo -
Yamaha DX9 - for sale - sound - demo -
syrk76
Yamaha DX9 FM Synthesizer Patch Demo
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Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about YAMAHA DX9.
Features and functionality
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The Yamaha DX9 lacks velocity sensitivity, which affects dynamic expression compared to the DX7, making it less desirable for performance-focused musicians.
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Portamento is a global setting on the DX9, not tied to individual patches, and can be adjusted via the panel's brown-lettered settings.
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The mod wheel, located on the left side, affects pitch modulation and should be checked if the sound is off.
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Comparisons
Mods and upgrades
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There's a project available that involves swapping chips to unlock the DX9's full potential, making it compatible with other DX synth patches.
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Value and pricing
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At $200, the DX9 is often considered overpriced, especially when newer alternatives like the Liven XFM offer more features and fun for a similar price.
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Use cases and applications
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The DX9 is best suited for those interested in experimenting with FM synthesis hardware rather than using it as a primary performance instrument.
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Setup and maintenance
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Replacing the IC8 (M58990P) A/D converter chip did not resolve battery voltage reading issues, suggesting potential CPU communication problems or other component failures.
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Swollen capacitors on the 4300mF power supply for 35V were replaced, indicating a common maintenance requirement for older DX9 units.
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Despite installing a new battery socket and battery, the DX9 may still display "Replace Battery!" due to issues with the A/D converter or internal components.
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A pitch tuning knob is located on the backside of the DX9, useful for correcting tuning issues.
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If experiencing key delay or out-of-tune sounds, check the mod wheel position and portamento settings before assuming hardware issues.
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Changing the battery is recommended if never done, but ensure saved patches are backed up beforehand.
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Software and compatibility
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Users experienced issues with SysEx file transfers being too fast for the DX9, suggesting reducing transfer rates for compatibility with vintage synths.
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Critic Reviews
3.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 4 Ratings
Artist usage
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Mac DeMarco used a Yamaha DX9 synthesizer for the rhythm keyboard part in "Passing Out Pieces." The preset was created by the previous owner. Unfortunately, he broke the synth after releasing Salad Days. This information is supported by a user-uploaded photo.
"But now I've got an Emulator and an Emulator II, two DX9's, an Oberheim, a Prophet, a Roland JX3-P and so on, and I'd say at this point that the synth has a generic sound of its own; when I wrote parts for the synths I used to write "woodwind" and "brass" to indicate the kind of sound, but now I tend to just write "bass synth" or "wind synth" because they have sounds of their own. And even when you think you're hearing an acoustic instrument on the albums there's a synth doubling it an octave below, which gives you a bigger bottom end."
It's mentioned as a part of Greg's setup for the 1984 Heartbeat City album - and was also used extensively on Door to Door in 1987 as well.
http://dailyeventsbookpagethree.blogspot.com/2006/03/rics-right-hand-man-greg-hawkes.html
Greg Hawkes Both Greg and Ric used the Fairlight CMI extensively on Heartbeat City, but also used the Roland Jupiter B and Vocoder, the Memorymoog, the Yamaha DX7 and DX9, the Mini-Korg, a Prophet 5 and a PPG 3.2 Wave synthesizer.
June 28th, 1985 interview @ 5:31 Paste Music
"It’s not foolproof. You know, some of the… it’s very difficult in the studio for instance. Benji and I probably sat for 9 hours on a song just putting little bits and pieces. Like even the solo on 6’s & 7’s is Roland Guitar Synth midi'd into a DX9 Synth."
The Bandcamp notes for the 2014 reissue of Laugh China Doll mention that a friend lent Ka-Spel his Yamaha DX9 to use in recording this album.
A record created over 2 frantic weekends with borrowed equipment. Old friend Mick Marshall provided the Yamaha DX9 which was new and utterly fascinating back in 1984 [...]
Album Usage
The YAMAHA DX9 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 DX9, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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