Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $248
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$500
$1501+
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Description
Discover the Yamaha S03, a compact yet powerful synthesizer that's perfect for musicians of all levels. Designed to bridge the gap between affordability and professional sound, the S03 offers an impressive array of features in a portable package. Whether you're crafting electronic beats or performing live, the S03's extensive sound library and user-friendly interface make it a versatile tool for any musical endeavor.
With over 700 voices, including selections from Yamaha's premium S80 synthesizer, the S03 delivers a rich palette of sounds—from grand pianos and vibrant basses to expressive strings and avant-garde textures. The 61-key synth action keyboard provides a responsive playing experience, while 64-note polyphony ensures your compositions remain lush and uninterrupted.
The Yamaha S03 is fully compatible with both GM and XG standards, allowing seamless integration with other MIDI devices and ensuring your music sounds its best. Plus, with 16-part multitimbrality, you can layer and sequence complex arrangements effortlessly. Onboard digital effects, including reverb, chorus, and a variety of delays and distortions, allow you to enhance your sound with precision.
Navigating the S03's features is a breeze thanks to its large, backlit LCD display and intuitive controls. The Category Search button offers quick access to your desired instrument types, making it easy to find the perfect sound in any performance scenario. Plus, the included S03 Voice Editor software gives you the flexibility to customize voices on both Mac and Windows systems.
Key Features:
- 61-key synth action keyboard
- 736 voices and 22 drum kits
- 64-note polyphony
- 16-part multitimbral
- GM and XG compatibility
- 64 types of digital effects
- Large backlit LCD display
- Includes S03 Voice Editor software for Mac/Windows
Product specs
| Brand | Yamaha |
| Model | S03 Synthesizer |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 2001 |
| 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 | 64 Voices |
FAQs
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What type of synthesis does the Yamaha S03 use?
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The Yamaha S03 uses AWM2 (Advanced Wave Memory 2) synthesis, which is a digital sample-based synthesis method providing high-quality sound reproduction.
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Is the Yamaha S03 suitable for live performances?
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Yes, the Yamaha S03 is suitable for live performances with its 61 full-size synth-action keys and 64-note polyphony, allowing for complex layering and dynamic playability.
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How many preset voices does the Yamaha S03 offer?
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The Yamaha S03 offers 128 preset voices, along with 128 user voices, 480 GM/XG voices, and 22 drum kits, providing a wide range of sounds for various musical styles.
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Can the Yamaha S03 be connected to a computer?
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Yes, the Yamaha S03 can be connected to a computer via its To Host port, and it is compatible with XGworks Lite software for both Mac and Windows.
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Does the Yamaha S03 have onboard effects?
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Yes, the Yamaha S03 has three onboard signal processors offering 64 different effect types, allowing users to enhance and modify their sounds directly from the synthesizer.
Videos
Bill Blair
Yamaha S03 Demo
Reviews
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha S03.
Features and functionality
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The Yamaha S03 features 453 waveforms with extensive editing options like LFOs, envelopes, and filters, allowing for in-depth sound customization.
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Despite being budget-oriented, the S03 provides surprising depth in its sound design capabilities, similar to its pricier siblings in the S-Series.
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User experience
Comparisons
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The S03 is recognized as a budget-friendly alternative to the S08, S30, S80, and S90, offering a good introduction to the S-Series without the higher cost.
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Use cases and applications
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A Yamaha S03 is successfully used in a punk/thrash metal band setup, highlighting its versatility across different music genres.
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Mods and upgrades
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While the S03 itself remains unmodified, it is often paired with other modified gear like a Hammond model 142 for enhanced performance in live settings.
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3.5 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 3 Ratings
Artist usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Yamaha S03, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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