Photo of Yamaha SHS-10 Keytar and more gear in a studio and synths

Yamaha SHS-10 Keytar

$346.61 Price Tier: Budget

4.5 (15)

1 Review

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2 community setups

9 wishlisted

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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

4.0 (19)

$346.61 2 available Used

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Average Price: $347

Budget/Beginner

$500

$1501+

Price Tier

In the Synthesizers category, Yamaha SHS-10 Keytar is priced in the Budget/Beginner range. This is great gear to get started with or for creators on a budget.

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High-end

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Description

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Step into the spotlight with the Yamaha SHS-10 Keytar, your ticket to unleashing expressive musical performances both on stage and in the studio. This iconic instrument blends the portability and style of a guitar with the sonic versatility of a synthesizer, offering musicians a fresh and dynamic way to perform. With its 32 mini keys, this keytar is both compact and expressive, ensuring you can effortlessly create captivating melodies and harmonies.

The SHS-10 is equipped with a range of built-in sounds and rhythms, allowing you to explore and experiment with various genres. It features MIDI capability, making it a perfect companion for modern digital setups. Whether you're a seasoned musician or just starting out, the intuitive interface and ergonomic design make it a breeze to navigate, letting you focus on your creativity.

For those who love to perform, the SHS-10 offers strap buttons for easy mobility, so you can move freely and engage with your audience. With its classic design and reliable Yamaha craftsmanship, this keytar is not only a functional instrument but also a statement piece that stands out in any musical ensemble.

Key Features:

32 mini keys for expressive playing
Built-in sounds and rhythms for versatile performance
MIDI compatibility for seamless integration with digital setups
Ergonomic design with strap buttons for easy mobility
Intuitive interface suitable for all skill levels
Classic and durable Yamaha build quality

Product specs

Brand	Yamaha
Model	SHS-10R Keytar
Finish	Red
Year	1987
Made In	Japan
Categories	Digital Synthesizers, Keytar MIDI Controllers
Analog / Digital	Digital
Key Size	Mini
Keyboard Action	Synth Action
MIDI I/O	MIDI Output
Number of Keys	32 Keys

FAQs

What kind of sounds can the Yamaha SHS-10 Keytar produce?: The Yamaha SHS-10 Keytar features an internal FM synthesizer with 25 different voices, allowing for a variety of sounds suitable for different musical styles.
Is the Yamaha SHS-10 Keytar polyphonic?: Yes, the Yamaha SHS-10 Keytar offers 6-note polyphony, enabling you to play chords and complex melodies simultaneously.
Does the Yamaha SHS-10 Keytar have MIDI capabilities?: The Yamaha SHS-10 Keytar includes a MIDI Out connector, allowing you to control external MIDI equipment and integrate it into your setup.
How portable is the Yamaha SHS-10 Keytar?: The Yamaha SHS-10 Keytar is designed for portability with its compact size, featuring 32 mini keys and a lightweight build, making it easy to carry and perform with.
Does the Yamaha SHS-10 Keytar have built-in speakers?: Yes, the Yamaha SHS-10 Keytar includes an internal loudspeaker, allowing you to play and hear your performance without additional amplification.

Videos

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Keen On Keys

Yamaha SHS-10 Keytar Review

Keen On Keys

Bad Gear - Yamaha SHS-10 Keytar - Most Embarrassing Synth Of All Time???

AudioPilz

Yamaha SHS-10. Good on it's own, GREAT with MIDI !!

Gearfacts

Yamaha SHS-10 Midi Keytar Demo

Galaxy Guitars

Yamaha SHS-10 - a mini FM keytar

Alfonse

Reviews

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PROS

Portable, can run on batteries or a 12V adapter
Features onboard speaker for immediate play
Offers 25 voices and 25 styles for varied music creation
Includes a pitch bender, sustain, vibrato, and portamento effects
MIDI output for rhythms, notes, and chords enhances music production
Accommodates up to 4 accompaniment voices on MIDI channels 12-15
Fun to play with patterns like Herbie Hancock's "Chameleon"
Featured in the film "La La Land"

CONS

Mini-keys are not velocity-sensitive, affecting dynamic expression
Limited selection of rhythms and accompaniment patterns
Some users consider it more toy-like than a professional instrument
Reported reliability issues with the device failing to work shortly after purchase

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Yamaha SHS-10 Keytar.

Build quality

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The keys are described as feeling like a cheap toy with a small size, limiting serious playability.
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Features and functionality

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The 2-operator FM engine isn't particularly lush but can sound better with external pedals.
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The SHS-10 lacks modern connectivity options, relying on large batteries and lacking built-in USB, which can limit versatility without modifications.
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The SHS-10 includes a sustain button near the pitch bend wheel, enhancing its use as a MIDI controller for live performances.
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Use cases and applications

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Despite its limitations, it can be used for song covers and performs well when connected to an amp.
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Effective for live solos and lead lines, especially when paired with a volume pedal to simulate velocity sensitivity.
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User experience

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Owners enjoy the SHS-10 for its fun factor and quirky design, despite not being a high-end instrument.
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Owners find the SHS-10's keys too small for comfortable play, especially for those accustomed to full-sized keys.
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Value and pricing

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Originally sold for $50 via mail order, indicating its budget-friendly positioning.
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Comparisons

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SHS-300 offers touch-sensitive keys and a 3-octave range, making it more suitable for beginners compared to the SHS-10's 2.5 octaves and non-touch-sensitive keys.
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The Rock Band 3 Wireless Keyboard is an alternative entry into keytars, offering MIDI out and velocity-sensitive keys at a budget price.
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Mods and upgrades

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Some users mod the SHS-300 with USB-C for easier power supply, allowing it to be powered by a USB power bank.
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Software and compatibility

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The SHS-10 requires a Bluetooth MIDI dongle for iPad connectivity, enhancing its usability with modern devices despite lacking built-in USB.
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