Yamaha MOTIF XS8

$1,195.19 Price Tier: Standard

5.0 (4)

1 Critic Review

2 Reviews

Find out who is using Yamaha Motif XS8

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Page last updated Jul 03, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 1 store. Prices updated July 3, 2026.

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Price

5.0 (8)

$1,195.19 4 available Used

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Average Price: $1,195

Standard/Professional

$500

$1501+

Price Tier

In the Synthesizers category, Yamaha MOTIF XS8 is priced in the Standard/Professional range. This is quality gear at a fair price point, suitable for beginners, hobbyists, and pros alike.

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Description

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Introducing the Yamaha Motif XS8, the third-generation powerhouse in the esteemed Motif line. This workstation synthesizer harmoniously blends advanced sequencing and arrangement capabilities with an extensive sampler, instrument, and synthesis libraries, making it your ultimate companion for complete music production. It comes packed with presets that cater to every genre, from techno to classical, offering a versatile musical experience.

Key Features:

Produced from 2007-2010
Features an 88-key keyboard
Possesses a 128-polyphony capacity
Memory includes 1024 presets + 64 kits, 384 user + 32 kits, 384 performances

Product specs

Brand	Yamaha
Model	Motif XS 8 Production Synthesizer
Finish	Gray
Year	2000s
Categories	Keyboard Synths, Workstation Keyboards
Analog / Digital	Digital
Key Size	Full Size
Keyboard Action	Weighted
MIDI I/O	MIDI Input, MIDI Output, USB MIDI
Number of Keys	88 Keys
Polyphony	128 Voices

FAQs

Is the Yamaha MOTIF XS8 suitable for live performances?: Yes, the Yamaha MOTIF XS8 is ideal for live performances due to its 88 weighted keys, robust sound engine, and easy-to-navigate interface. It offers a variety of sounds and real-time control features that enhance live playability.
How does the Yamaha MOTIF XS8 integrate with a computer setup?: The Yamaha MOTIF XS8 offers Total Computer Integration, allowing seamless connectivity via USB MIDI. It also comes with Cubase AI software, making it easy to incorporate into your digital audio workstation setup.
What type of sounds can I expect from the Yamaha MOTIF XS8?: The Yamaha MOTIF XS8 features a 355MB wave ROM with Xpanded Articulation technology, providing a wide range of realistic acoustic and electronic sounds. It is versatile for genres like rock, pop, jazz, and classical.
Does the Yamaha MOTIF XS8 have a built-in sequencer?: Yes, the Yamaha MOTIF XS8 includes an Integrated Sampling Sequencer, which allows you to record and arrange music directly on the keyboard, offering up to 1 GB of optional memory for expanded sample storage.
Is the Yamaha MOTIF XS8 polyphonic?: Yes, the Yamaha MOTIF XS8 is polyphonic with 128 voices, allowing complex layering and performance of multiple notes simultaneously without note dropouts.
What are the key features of the Yamaha MOTIF XS8's interface?: The Yamaha MOTIF XS8 features an updated interface with a large color LCD screen, 8 knobs, and sliders for intuitive control. This design facilitates easy navigation and real-time parameter adjustments during performances or studio sessions.
Can the Yamaha MOTIF XS8 be used for studio mixing?: Yes, the Yamaha MOTIF XS8 offers a studio-style mixing environment with Virtual Circuitry Modeling effects, making it suitable for detailed sound shaping and mixing in a studio setting.

Videos

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Rick Jansen

Lady Antebellum - Need you now - piano (motif XS8)

Rick Jansen

Yamaha Motif XS 8 Voices

Said Davlatov

Transposing on a Yamaha MOTIF XS8 keyboard

Kirk Hopkins

Yamaha Motif XS8 - Winter NAMM 2007

gearwire

Yamaha Motif XS8 - Video test and mess about

CJW Media

Yamaha Motif xs8 (rhodes & piano)

Marko Volk

Yamaha Motif XS8 - quick look

CJW Media

YAMAHA MOTIF XS8 GOSPEL PIANO FROM JAMMAL GRAHAM

Joshua Lee D productions

yamaha motif xs8

santana show

Reviews

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PROS

Exceptional keybed with hammer weighted action keys
High-quality Fender Rhodes sound emulation
Wide variety of extra sounds available
Ideal for permanent setups due to its build
Considered an industry standard for feel and sound

CONS

Heavy and not easily portable
User interface can be confusing for some
Integration with modern DAWs can be challenging
Requires outdated firewire 400 for MLAN system connection
Not the easiest for creating new music

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha MOTIF XS8.

Features and functionality

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The Yamaha MOTIF XS8 has a built-in 16 channel FireWire audio interface, eliminating the need for external interfaces like the Scarlett for some users.
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The XS8's 1/4” audio outputs must be routed to an audio interface for capturing onboard sounds digitally.
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Software and compatibility

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The MOTIF XS8 requires a specific driver from the Yamaha website for FireWire connectivity with MacBooks.
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The MOTIF's MIDI out can control softsynths and mappable parameters in Ableton Live; MIDI can also run in reverse for playback of arrangements.
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The MOTIF XS8 doesn’t transmit audio over USB; it requires an audio interface for recording sounds directly to a computer.
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Setup and maintenance

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Users suggest using a 1/4” instrument cable for connecting the MOTIF's L & R outputs to the Scarlett's inputs, with the switch set to line.
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Yamaha's optional FireWire accessory card once allowed MIDI and audio but is now largely outdated.
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Owners have experienced key sticking issues after several years of use, requiring servicing to maintain smooth operation.
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Use cases and applications

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When triggering virtual instruments, owners recommend using MIDI cables over USB due to potential driver issues.
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The MOTIF XS8 is often used for both gigging and studio work, with users highlighting its reliability and solid keybed for expressive playing.
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Build quality

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The MOTIF XS8 is noted for its durability, with several owners mentioning their units have lasted over a decade without major issues, even with regular gigging.
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Comparisons

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Some users transitioned from older models like the Korg Triton and reported the XS8's longevity and build quality as superior, especially for studio settings.
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User experience

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It's mentioned that Yamaha's consistent keybed design aids in long-term repairability and maintenance, as parts are often interchangeable across models.
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Other

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Owners mention that proper storage and regular use are key to maintaining the XS8's functionality, emphasizing the need to avoid long idle periods.
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Critic Reviews

Review: Yamaha Motif XS8 — AudioTechnology

audiotechnology.com

The Yamaha Motif XS8 is a powerhouse workstation with a realistic piano action and seamless computer integration via mLAN. It offers a vast array of sounds, particularly excelling in realistic instruments like pianos. The integration with Cubase and its robust connectivity options make it a formidable centerpiece for any studio. However, its complexity and hefty weight can be challenging for some users. While it may lack some of the fun features found in competitors like Korg and Roland, its sound quality and integration capabilities make it a solid choice for serious musicians seeking a comprehensive workstation.

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 4 Ratings

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futuretunes

154

over 10 years ago

Awesome, but becoming obsolete

Im in love with the keybed of the XS8. Never found hammer weighted action keys on a synth/controller as good as on the XS8. Though i'm going to sell my Motif, because i'm moving a bit more towards softsynths and NI kontakt libs which imho sound far better than the Motif. Also to proper integrate with your DAW (cubase in my case) you need to hook the MLAN system up with firewire 400 and my guess is that there will be no computer equipped with FW anymore in a few more years. Time to sell the thing or keep it as a bloody fine master controller.

tony_bee

122

about 8 years ago

I've had mine for 8 years so far and I'm very happy with it!

The absolute standard of the industry, great feel and sound. This version of the motif is not very mobile (88 Keys) and not that easy to use for new music creation. Compared to Pro Logic or Pro tools, at least the way I use it. Has the touch of an actual piano!