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Description
Experience the essence of FM synthesis with the Yamaha TX7 Desktop Module. A compact yet powerful addition to any musician's toolkit, this desktop module is designed for those who crave the classic sound of Yamaha's legendary DX7 synthesizer but in a more portable form. The TX7 captures the heart of the DX7's iconic sound engine, allowing you to explore complex tones and textures with the convenience of a desktop unit.
The TX7 is perfect for keyboardists and sound designers who appreciate the nuanced, digital FM synthesis that defined many hits of the '80s and beyond. Its interface is straightforward, making it a breeze to integrate into any MIDI setup. While it lacks the physical keyboard of its predecessor, the TX7 compensates with its versatility and ease of use, serving as a seamless extension for your existing keyboard or MIDI controller.
With its ability to produce everything from crystalline bells to punchy basslines, the TX7 is a testament to Yamaha's enduring legacy in sound design. Whether you're looking to recreate vintage sounds or forge new sonic landscapes, the TX7 provides a rich palette to fuel your creativity.
Key Features:
- FM synthesis engine derived from the classic Yamaha DX7
- Compact desktop unit for easy integration into studio setups
- Fully MIDI-compatible for seamless control with external devices
- Capable of producing a wide range of sounds from basses to leads and effects
- Classic digital tones ideal for electronic, pop, and ambient music genres
Product specs
| Brand | Yamaha |
| Model | TX7 FM Expander |
| Finish | Black |
| Year | 1985 |
| Categories | Desktop Synths, Digital Synthesizers |
| Analog / Digital | Digital |
| MIDI I/O | MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through |
| Polyphony | 16 Voices |
FAQs
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What type of synthesis does the Yamaha TX7 use?
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The Yamaha TX7 uses FM (Frequency Modulation) synthesis, which is known for producing complex, evolving sounds and is ideal for creating digital textures and bell-like tones.
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How many voices of polyphony does the Yamaha TX7 support?
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The Yamaha TX7 supports 16 voices of polyphony, allowing for rich, layered sounds and complex musical passages without note dropouts.
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What are the MIDI connectivity options available on the Yamaha TX7?
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The Yamaha TX7 features MIDI Input, MIDI Output, and MIDI Through, making it easy to integrate into a variety of MIDI setups and control it with external sequencers or keyboards.
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Is the Yamaha TX7 suitable for live performance?
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While the Yamaha TX7 is primarily designed as a desktop module for studio use, its durable build and MIDI connectivity allow it to be used in live setups when paired with a suitable MIDI controller.
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Can the Yamaha TX7 be used to reproduce classic 80s sounds?
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Yes, the Yamaha TX7 is capable of reproducing classic 80s FM sounds, making it a popular choice for those looking to capture the digital soundscapes characteristic of that era.
Videos
wolfgang S vukan
Yamaha TX7 (DX-7 desktop module) - Presets Demo (Sounds Only + free SYSEX)
Yamaha TX7 (DX-7 desktop module) - Presets Demo (Sounds Only + free SYSEX)
wolfgang S vukan
Yamaha TX7 vs. DX7: Discover the Hidden Gem of 80s Synths!
Ian Dixon
Yamaha TX7 controlled via DEXED and Ableton Live, overlooked powerful vintage synth
The Fellow Passenger
YAMAHA TX7 - Inside the module and replacing the LCD display
Mindburner
Why the Yamaha DX7 & TX7 are still classic synths worth buying in 2023
Ian Dixon
Reviews
PROS
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Identical grittiness & warmth as the first DX7, offering authentic retro sound
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More compact than original, saving studio space
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No failure-prone membranes, increasing durability
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Compatible with software for sound design flexibility
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Full of potential for both studio and live gigs
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Provides authentic FM synthesis sound, unmatched by emulations
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Access to every DX7 preset online, vast sound possibilities
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Unique, creaky DAC adds a dark dimension to sounds
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Can be chained for expanded voice options
CONS
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No built-in interface for editing presets directly on the module
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Lacks a breath controller input
Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 4 Reviews and 21 Ratings
40997
its a teensy weensy dx7 mk1
no data slider (and no failure prone membranes) but small and with all the features of the keyboard dx7 mk1 and furry 12 bit D to A.... just won one of these, need to get rid of some boards in favor of modules and rack units due to space concerns. When this arrives and proves itself functional my dx7 mk1 will have to go out, or at least in storage. Anyone have and ESQM nodule and want an ESQ1?
26711
I've come close to pulling the trigger on one of these via craigslist a couple of times. Jealous!
40997
man, richard james has my haircut
40997
I passed my DX7 on... just like I passed on my mark2 when I went to the more expansive SY and then EX boards... I just won a second one of these. The thing is tiny and useful. You can just perch it on some dead space atop an analog board with midi to play it and then yu have the added joy of layering it up. Pull the trigger pkennethk
436
One of the coolest synths gifted to me...
Drew Cady from Subatomic Audio knows I'm a synth nut and gave the TX7 (which is an expansion engine for the DX7) to me. I also own a Yamaha TX81z which is apart of the DX family of synths and when I use them together I get some really cool sounding stacks. If you come across one of these, you might want to consider getting one...
53
4stars just for the DAC
With every preset for the dx7 at hand on the internet, this thing is crazy, so many sounds. Best thing about it tho is the creaky DAC which adds a very subtle and dark dimension to the sounds. Put this next to FM7 vst and this is way creepier.
Artist usage
Add artist
At 0:18, the module can be seen connected to a midi keyboard.
In this image, found on Vangelis' official website, taken at Nemo Studios, one can see some of the equipment used by Vangelis, including a Yamaha TX7.
Tony Banks used two Yamaha TX7 Desktop Modules during the TW66 tour, as shown in a photo from Twronline.
In the September 1987 issue of Keyboard Magazine, the third column on page 31 mentioned that Danny Elfman owned five Yamaha TX7 Desktop Modules.
For sale from the Nils Reverb shop is a Yamaha TX-7 Synthesizer. The item is in overall good condition and is just a little dusty from disuse.
Item will ship with a signed certificate of authenticity.
David Wise confirmed on Twitter that he used the Yamaha TX7 Desktop Module, stating, "I had a Yamaha TX7 ( DX7 in a box )."
In an interview with Universal Audio, when asked if he has a collection of vintage synthesizers, Stuart Price says, "Yes. But personally I only like to use a handful at a time to prevent tracks from becoming too general with a touch of everything. You need to live with each one for a while to get to its secrets. I love the Yamaha TX7... I like to have them around mainly for inspiration. In my experience, turning away and just focusing on a different object in front of you can yield good results." (original article source here)
"We all work a bit differently though — Jim and Adrian tend to go through presets, but I always go to manual and make up my own sounds. On the DX7 we always use presets; we started to do programming but it's difficult because there are six of everything and eight-stage envelopes. We have the Syco Logic MX1 board which holds 128 memories fitted in the DX7, and that's 90% full — and we have the sounds from the TX7 Expander which we transfer into the TX816 one or two at a time."
"For studio work on Dire Straits projects I use a similar set-up, the main keyboards again being the DX1, Emulator II, Jupiter 8, the DX7 and Synclavier, and they are supplemented by a Jupiter 6, TX7, and a new Roland Super JX."
David Rosenthal, during the Cyndi Lauper True Colors Tour in 1986, utilized a Yamaha TX7 Desktop Module, as confirmed by a description on his official website. The module was positioned underneath a Roland Juno 106, although it is not visible in the accompanying photo.
Orgue Electronique utilizes the Yamaha TX7 Desktop Module, as detailed on Sternstudio's website. The TX7, a module version of the DX7, is designed for integration and editing with the DX7, offering expansive FM synthesis capabilities. This setup provides a powerful and affordable way to achieve rich sound output.
Album Usage
The Yamaha TX7 Desktop Module has been featured on the following albums:
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 TX7 Desktop Module, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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