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Yamaha QX21 MIDI Sequencer

Yamaha QX21 MIDI Sequencer

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$25.00 to $119.95

3.5 (2)

1 Critic Review

1 Review

This product is Vintage or Discontinued

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Page last updated Jun 16, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 2 stores. Prices updated June 16, 2026.

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5.0 (2)

$25.00 12 available Used

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WC Music Store

$119.95

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Description

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The Yamaha QX21 Hardware Sequencer is a classic piece of music technology, perfect for DJs and musicians looking to integrate a vintage touch into their setups. Originally released in the late 1980s, this hardware sequencer is celebrated for its straightforward interface and robust performance capabilities. It allows users to craft complex musical arrangements with precision, making it an excellent tool for live performances or studio work.

Designed with versatility in mind, the QX21 offers 16-track sequencing, enabling musicians to layer multiple instruments and sounds effortlessly. Its intuitive control panel features a series of buttons and a backlit LCD screen, providing clear feedback and easy navigation through your compositions. The sequencer is known for its reliability and classic MIDI implementation, which ensures seamless integration with other MIDI-compatible devices.

With a rich history and timeless appeal, the Yamaha QX21 remains a popular choice among enthusiasts of vintage electronic gear. Its ability to handle intricate compositions without the need for a computer, coupled with Yamaha’s renowned build quality, makes it a valuable asset for any music creator looking to capture the essence of the electronic music revolution.

Key Features:

16-track sequencing for complex arrangements
Classic MIDI implementation for seamless device integration
Intuitive control panel with backlit LCD screen
Robust and reliable performance for live and studio use
Vintage appeal with Yamaha’s renowned build quality

Videos

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Telantas Changxo

Back and Forth (dawless jam using Yamaha QX21, Alesis SR-16, Behringer Crave, and Korg Monologue)

Telantas Changxo

Reviews

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Critic Reviews

Yamaha QX21 MIDI Sequencer (EMM Apr 86)

muzines.co.uk

The Yamaha QX21 MIDI sequencer offers a budget-friendly update to the QX7, with enhancements like a 'free memory' display and channel delete feature, providing better editing flexibility compared to competitors like the Casio SZ1. Its ability to handle all 16 MIDI channels and substantial memory capacity are standout features, though the lack of a channel solo function and additional MIDI outputs may be limitations for some users. While not the easiest to use, the QX21's added functionalities and competitive pricing make it a worthwhile consideration for those needing a dedicated sequencer.

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3.5 out of 5

Based on 1 Review and 2 Ratings

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kenneth_samuel_cromie

268

about 8 years ago

Fantastic little step sequencer

I have two of these

Artist usage

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Aphex Twin

Music Producer

The Tuss

Verified via Archive

In the 2014 Syrobonkers part1 interview, Richard D James / Aphex Twin mentions using the Yamaha QX21 sequencer for a late '80s track:

Window peeper(...) made around 1987/1988 with a fucking qx21 sequencer & fz10m, 101 + quadraverb + home made mixer on breadboards, was a pretty cool mixer ,got some pics somewhere.. looked well techno it was 2 big breadboards slotted together and did some odd phasey stuff., before that i used to just twist all the wires together as a mixer! not many have tried that i don't reckon, its actually a pretty unique way to get the cheapest compressor!

qx21 was my first sequencer, worked a whole summer in wimpy burger for that damn thing, it changed my world but it has to be one of the worst sequencers I've ever used, i kind of feel bad saying it, sorry mr qx21, i get a top feeling when i look at it still but never felt inclined to switch it back on, hmm maybe...no.. I always wanted to stack about 20 tx7,qx21's etc with their sloping panels ha , would look good [from the front no?]

One of the Window Peeper tracks in question is still up on a Soundcloud account that has all the markings of a typical Richard James burner account (user18081871):

https://soundcloud.com/user18081971/5-window-peeper6

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