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Description
The Yamaha MK-100 is a versatile synthesizer that caters to both budding musicians and seasoned synth enthusiasts. Designed with a range of sonic possibilities, this synthesizer opens up a world of creativity with its impressive array of sounds and user-friendly interface. Sporting 49 full-size keys, it provides a comfortable and realistic playing experience, making it easy for players to transition from traditional piano keys. The MK-100 is equipped with a diverse selection of sounds, including classic piano, vibrant strings, and dynamic brass, allowing you to explore various musical genres with ease.
The built-in rhythm section features a variety of styles, from rock to jazz, providing the perfect backdrop for your compositions or practice sessions. Additionally, the Yamaha MK-100 includes a sequencer, enabling you to record and layer multiple tracks, enhancing your arrangements with depth and complexity. Its intuitive control panel ensures that all these features are accessible, encouraging spontaneity and experimentation during live performances or studio sessions.
Ideal for musicians who appreciate a hands-on approach, the MK-100 offers a blend of simplicity and sophistication, making it a valuable addition to any music setup. Whether you're crafting intricate melodies or laying down beats, this synthesizer supports your creative journey with reliability and style.
Key Features:
- 49 full-size keys for authentic playing feel
- Wide selection of sounds including piano, strings, and brass
- Built-in rhythm section with multiple styles
- Integrated sequencer for recording and layering tracks
- Intuitive control panel for easy navigation and creativity
- Suitable for both practice and live performance settings
Videos
8-Bit Keys
Restoring and review of the 1983 Yamaha MK-100
Restoring and review of the 1983 Yamaha MK-100
8-Bit Keys
Yamaha MK-100 Portasound Keyboard
KeyboardKrazy49
Yamaha MK-100 - rare pre-FM Portasound synth
Alfonse
Yamaha MK-100 Multi-Menu demo
Alfonse
Yamaha MK-100 multitracked demo
acreil
Yamaha MK-100 Jam
Late Night Beats
YAMAHA MK-100 | Programming and performing "Cantaloupe Island"!
Stefanos Kozanis
Yamaha PortaSound MK-100 (1983) Demo
Robert Saint John
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha MK-100.
Features and functionality
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The Yamaha MK-100 offers more envelope options and variations for cross-fading between oscillators compared to its competitor, the Casiotone MT-65/68.
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The MK-100 allows reprogramming of drum patterns and accompaniment bass lines, offering some customization despite its pre-FM digital limitations.
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Owners note the MK-100 lacks MIDI, but its unique sound when sampled is appreciated, especially with low-resolution digital waveforms as notes pitch down.
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Comparisons
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Basic timbres of the MK-100 are similar to other Yamaha Portasounds like the PS-55 and PC-100, providing a familiar sound palette.
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Use cases and applications
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Combining the MK-100 with reverb effects can produce unique and interesting soundscapes, appealing to creative sound designers.
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Despite its limitations, users appreciate the MK-100 for its ability to multitrack with external effects like the Roland SRV-2000 reverb for enhanced soundscapes.
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The MK-100 is noted for its demanding precision when played alongside a drum machine, as any timing errors are highly noticeable.
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The MK-100 is frequently used as a sound source for sampling, with users compiling kits of its drum sounds for digital audio workstations.
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Value and pricing
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The availability of Yamaha's comprehensive online manuals enhances the MK-100's value, making it easier for enthusiasts to explore its full potential.
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User experience
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Users find the onboard sequencer difficult since it requires recording entire sequences straight through without editing, making it less user-friendly.
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Some users report glitches such as effects like tremolo or chorus not outputting through the line-out, and percussion tempo randomly fluctuating.
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Software and compatibility
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Some users sequence the MK-100 compositions externally in software like Renoise for easier reference and control over the mix and effects.
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Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 0 Reviews and 1 Rating
Artist usage
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"12 december 2017 – Got this from the cult dutch electronic music artist Phochos yesterday, the YAMAHA MK-100 – A 1983 homekeyboard with some synthesis functions and a very cool 1 pattern programmable ‘drummachine’."
C: "The funny thing is, after Mike left, we all started buying keyboards; me, Mark, Carl, we've all got JX3Ps, and I've got a Yamaha MK100, which is really good, as you can record chords and melodies on it. I've started playing keyboards all the time — I hardly ever play guitar — and all the songs I've written lately have been on keyboards. I was getting quite good at the guitar, but I'm not... er... very good anymore. Thing is, when you're playing keyboards, you can hear all the different notes and inversions, whereas on guitar, it's all C, F, and G. I finally decided I like piano best, so I've bought a Yamaha upright piano."
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 MK-100, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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