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Description

Dive into the world of sound design with the Yamaha EX5R Rackmount MIDI Module, a powerhouse in the realm of synthesizers. The EX5R is the rackmount version of Yamaha's renowned EX5 synthesizer, offering Advanced Sampling and Synthesis technologies (A.S.S.T.) that combine multiple synthesis methods. This includes Virtual Acoustic synthesis, AN (Analog Physical Modeling) synthesis, and AWM2 (Advanced Wave Memory 2) sample playback, giving you an expansive palette of sonic possibilities. Whether you're crafting intricate soundscapes or searching for that perfect lead, the EX5R delivers with versatility and precision.

Designed for both studio and live environments, the EX5R offers an intuitive user interface, making it easy to navigate its deep features. Its comprehensive MIDI implementation ensures seamless integration with any setup, while the onboard effects provide an additional layer of sound enhancement with rich reverbs and dynamic modulation effects. Musicians appreciate the extensive polyphony of 128 notes that allows for complex layering and expressive performances.

Ideal for composers, sound designers, and performing artists alike, the Yamaha EX5R Rackmount MIDI Module is a testament to Yamaha's commitment to excellence in music technology.

Key Features:

  • Advanced Sampling and Synthesis Technologies (A.S.S.T.)
  • Virtual Acoustic, AN, and AWM2 synthesis methods
  • Comprehensive MIDI implementation for seamless integration
  • Intuitive user interface for easy navigation
  • Onboard effects including reverb and modulation
  • 128-note polyphony for complex layering and performance
  • Rackmount design ideal for studios and live setups

Product specs

Brand Yamaha
Model EX5R Realtime Control Synthesizer
Year 1998
Made In Japan
Categories Digital Synthesizers, Rackmount Synths
Analog / Digital Digital
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through
Polyphony 126 Voices

FAQs

What type of synthesis does the Yamaha EX5R use?

The Yamaha EX5R features a combination of Advanced Sampling Synthesis (AWM2), Virtual Acoustic Synthesis, FDSP (Formulated Digital Sound Processing), and Analog Physical Modeling, providing a versatile and rich sound palette.

How many voices of polyphony does the Yamaha EX5R offer?

The Yamaha EX5R provides up to 126 voices of polyphony, allowing for complex and layered soundscapes without voice stealing.

Can the Yamaha EX5R be integrated into a modern MIDI setup?

Yes, the Yamaha EX5R includes MIDI Input, Output, and Through ports, making it compatible with contemporary MIDI setups for seamless integration.

Is the Yamaha EX5R suitable for live performances?

The Yamaha EX5R is well-suited for live performances due to its robust sound engine and real-time control capabilities, allowing musicians to adapt and manipulate sounds on the fly.

What are the standout features of the Yamaha EX5R's sound engine?

The Yamaha EX5R's sound engine is notable for its multi-synthesis approach, incorporating AWM2, Virtual Acoustic, FDSP, and Analog Physical Modeling, offering a diverse range of sound creation possibilities.

SynthMania

SynthMania

A few Yamaha EX5R performances

Video thumbnail for A few Yamaha EX5R performances by SynthMania

A few Yamaha EX5R performances

SynthMania

SynthMania

Video thumbnail for Yamaha EX-5R My Favourite preset patches - Improvisation / Demonstration by AnalogyGuy

Yamaha EX-5R My Favourite preset patches - Improvisation / Demonstration

AnalogyGuy

AnalogyGuy

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha EX5R Rackmount MIDI Module.

Comparisons

  • The Yamaha EX5R is noted for its unique synthesis methods, distinguishing it from typical PCM synths of its era like the Roland and Korg workstations.

    Source
  • Older synths like the Yamaha EX5R are suggested to have superior build quality compared to some modern, surface-mounted PCB-based synths.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The EX5R includes multiple synthesis types, offering a diverse range of sounds beyond the typical ROMpler capabilities.

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  • On older digital synths like the Yamaha EX5R, replacing floppy disks with USB emulators can modernize data storage and increase reliability.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The EX5R is praised for its capacity to create complex, evolving textures and pads, making it suitable for ambient and experimental music genres.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Users should expect significant menu diving when programming the EX5R, similar to other complex synths from the 90s.

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  • It's noted that replacing the low memory battery in digital synths, similar to a coin-shaped watch battery, can extend the life of the unit for decades.

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  • Capacitors in synths from the 1980s and 1990s should be checked and potentially replaced to prevent board damage from leaks.

    Source

Build quality

  • The button switches may wear out or get cruddy; DeOx spray can temporarily fix the issue, but replacement might be necessary for lasting functionality.

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Software and compatibility

  • While modern software editors like Ctrlr can assist in programming, initial setup may require familiarity with older editing methods.

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User experience

  • For those interested in sound design, older digital synths might provide a more educational experience due to their less intuitive, non-handholding interfaces.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Emulators and software editors, such as SoundQuest librarian, can enhance control and ease of use for older synths like the Yamaha EX5R.

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Add

5.0 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 8 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
nycsynth

Still spectacular!

More than 20 years after its introduction, the Yamaha EX5R is still a spectacular synthesizer. Some of the stock sounds are dated, but the synthesis capabilities make this a sound designer's dream. Don't dismiss this gem from the late 1990s!

alfa_trax

polyphonic synthesizer

polyphonic synthesizer, 3 different synth engines, sequencer, arpeggiator

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Noah "40" Shebib uses Yamaha EX5R Rackmount MIDI Module

Noah "40" Shebib

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

The Yamaha EX5R Rackmount MIDI Module can be seen in this photo taken from Noah "40" Shebib's official Instagram page.

See how Yasunori Mitsuda uses Yamaha EX5R Rackmount MIDI Module

Yasunori Mitsuda

Composer, Music Producer

...
Verified via Archive

Yasunori Mitsuda uses the Yamaha EX5R Rackmount MIDI Module, as detailed in the "STUDIO SETTING CHART" from Procyon Studio's archived page. Mitsuda appreciates the module's filter for its versatility in sound transformation, despite finding Yamaha's complex interface challenging during the composition process.

See how Dapayk uses Yamaha EX5R Rackmount MIDI Module

Dapayk

Music Producer

...
Verified via YouTube

As can be seen at 0:45 on the left rack, just above the keyboard

See how Clifford Carter uses Yamaha EX5R Rackmount MIDI Module

Clifford Carter

Keyboardist, Music Producer

Toph-E & The Pussycats

...
Verified

Clifford Carter is documented using the Yamaha EX5R Rackmount MIDI Module, as featured in Yamaha All Access Magazine.

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 EX5R Rackmount MIDI Module, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

Show yours
jamie_breustedt

jamie_breustedt

Gear IQ 124

rettervondunkel

rettervondunkel

Gear IQ 770

orcasynth

orcasynth

Gear IQ 571

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