Yamaha Montage vs MODX: What's the Difference?
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- Опубліковано 15 січ 2021
- Yamaha has launched two professional keyboards in the "Performance Synth" category. The Montage and the MODX. They are so similar in their functionality but the MODX is less than have the price of it's big brother. What are you gaining when buying a Montage? Or more importantly, what are you losing when you buy a MODX? Check out this video to learn the difference between the Yamaha Montage and the Yamaha MODX.
It was a very good review. I probably agree on all points except the balanced output advantage.
As a gigging rock keyboardist that plays both large stages at "billion" dollar casinos and bars, I want to
set the record straight about the difference between the Montage & MODX to potential buyers.
But really, you should try before buying. And even play them side by side as I have on several
occasions.
The balanced outputs are a fairly small deal as most keyboardists
will use a direct box (about 50 bucks) which will balance them
and also provide additional outputs to go both to the board and
an amp. Plus some other features. So the interference with long
wires is a non-issue unless your not using one. Most sound
people will even provide them if you don't have one one. They
are also very small and light weight. What is a bigger deal is the
DAC quality of those outputs. The MODX uses a CD quality DAC
(40something khz) with 24bit samples (CD's use 16 bit), and the
Montage uses 192 khz.
Connecting both a Montage and MODX at the same time to a keyboard
amp, I could not tell the difference in fidelity. There is nothing wrong with
my hearing. If you used "high end" studio speakers, that might be different.
When recording, the MODX has the same quality output using the USB outputs.
In a live situation, the keyboardist would typically be using a keyboard amp not
studio speakers. And in most situations, the PA isn't going to be the fidelity of
studio speakers, even with expensive PA's. And if your in a rock band like me,
trying to hear the fidelity difference in the mix of a full band will be extremely
difficult for those with the best hearing. Keep in mind the MODX still offers better
quality output than what most classic expensive flagship synths from Yamaha, Korg,
Roland and others offered all but recently. I play 80s & 70s rock, so you can bet
the output is still probably better than a $10,000 synth from the 80s would be.
If it was good enough for the famous bands to use in the 70s, 80s & 90s, you can
bet it's good enough for me........and for you!
Where interference many actually happen isn't the outputs, but the
use of a wall wart for power. I've experienced some issues at
home especially, I think due to a 1970s electrical system. I haven't
had the same issues at rehearsal or gigs. I think a $50 4 lbs
power conditioner might resolve them. The wall wart might be the
biggest disadvantage to me. Some have even hacked their MODX
to put a proper PSU internally.
I have barely use the scene buttons. Instead, I do most patch changes
using the set list feature. I simply place the patches I need
per song next to each other in the set list. These can be
changed either by touching the screen or using the arrow keys or a
foot pedal can change them from left to right.
I play 80s & 70s rock. All live. No tracks, no sequencing, no
click tracks needed. Only arpegiators on one or two classic songs.
I agree the keybed is not as premium as the Montage. I've mostly
used premium keyboards for decades, but I don't believe playing
on the MODX6 keybed has affected my playing at all. I do a lot
of intricate lead synth & organ work. Piano is a bit more basic
for me than some keyboardists, and I've had no issues with that
either. If you want piano feel and response, you need to buy the
MODX8 or use a 2nd MIDI controller with a a hammer action keybed.
I've owned more than 15 synths since the mid 80s and have yet to
break a key. I'm very surprised by this. Could happen as I am
am playing fast and a lot of organ slides and that kind of stuff.
I don't wear a bracelet. I doubt my watch would catch a key. I'm glad
Yamaha made the decision to include the MODX6 keybed because it was
a way to make the instrument more affordable, lighter and more
compact. They've also shaved about a mm off each key which makes
the MODX6 one of the most compact 61 synths around, which is the
thing that first made me consider it as stage space is at a premium at some
venues and my keyboard setup was taking over too much of the stages.
I haven't noticed it in my playing even though I use other keyboards at the
same time with regular size keys.
Since unlike "most ???" synth players buying modern keyboards, I
don't play electronica, techno, house or rap. So a lot of the
other features of the Montage really don't apply to players like
me nearly as much as they my to people playing modern music,
like the extra buttons, additional polyphony. I also can get
around some of those things since I gig with at least one
other keyboard and a laptop full of soft synths. I don't
count on seamless switching as much since it's not my only
keyboard on stage generally. The laptop provides "unlimited"
drive space, so I'm not overly worried about being limited to
1 gig of samples, which is still a lot vs anything but the
newest and most expensive synths on the market.
I play both large stages like casinos, and small bars like I did
last night. I have a flight of steps go to up in & out of my house
to gigs and rehearsal. It's a joy to transport my MODX in the
backpack, light weight and freeing my hands to carry other gear
to the car. Prior to two years ago, I transported a Korg with
a premium keybed and the weight and size of the Montage. I much
prefer saving my back! The MODX is less than half half the weight.
Which the shopper buys should not only be about how much money
they have to spend, but what their actual needs are. If you
have a road crew, only play the largest shows on the largest
stages, with the largest budgets, then there is no need to consider
MODX. But for most people, the MODX is the way to go. The keybed
is the biggest deal breaker for most people that go Montage, so be
sure to try both. How you play will determine if you need a Montage
keybed. While sure I'd prefer a Montage if I didn't have to transport it,
pay more than double or worry about the extra stage space. But all things
considered, at the same price I'd choose the MODX6 over the Montage 6.
Anyway, it was a good review and is important for potential buyers to know all the
differences. Everyone should be well aware of what "they actually need". So many
assuming, spending more than double, and transporting a keyboard that is more than
twice as heavy is going to greatly benefit them That's where I disagree. And your
chiropractor might disagree too. I carried heavy, expensive synths for decades.
It's no longer "the only option" people. The days of light weight affordable "quality" synths
has only existed more recently.
If you have unlimited funds + have a road crew or don't play live + have plenty of space on stage at all times,
in the studio, and at home. And if you don't have to transport your keyboard to rehearsal than by all means
buy a Montage. MODX can't do anything Montage can't. However........Very few people are really in that situation
where all of those things are not an issue!
In summary......I prefer the MODX for my needs. Even if the cost were the same!
Well said my friend. Well said.
Thank you for the comprehensive comments. Superb addition to the great review.
You said exactly what I was going to say. If you have an unlimited budget and roadies, than Montage all the way. If you want a studio instrument with the best keybed, than also Montage. But if you need to transport it yourself, than I'd definitely get the MODX, even if I had the money for Montage. I prefer weighted 88-key keyboards, and the Montage 8 is basically too heavy for one person to move alone. The MODX-8, though is fine. The Montage has a much better piano action, but, on stage, either one would be fine and sound nearly identical. So as a gigging keyboard, the MODX is a clear winner.
@@geoffk777 Exactly! Or a MODX6 or 7 for those of us that want synth/organ action. Even less differences between those as organ doesn't have velocity and many synth sounds don't either.
In another direct comparison video, the reviewer audibly doesn't reach the highest velocity layer on the MODX, but does so consistently on the Montage. Is that a phenomenon you noticed, too? See for reference: ua-cam.com/video/DDVCmhrSyJ0/v-deo.html
I’ve watched hours of vids on using the MODX. This comparison has more info on basic functions in a digestible format than all. Just followed. Keep it up! And now I want a montage…
Great work! You know your stuff! I have a montage and see tons of Modx always wondered the real difference. Glad I got the montage
I bought the Montage 7 four years ago and it's the best gear purchase I ever made...
Awesome information and very well presented! Thank you for this!
Thank you for watching!
This provides exactly the info I wanted. Answers all the questions. Thank you.
My pleasure!!
I love these types of videos 😁 Subbed!
Thank you for the sub!!!
I’ve watched hours of vids on using the MODX. This comparison has more info on basic functions in a digestible format than all. Just followed. Keep it up! And now I want a montage…(edit- I was not clear in that this was not intended as a tutorial. But was of more use to me as one!)
This is a detailed comparison. Excellent job!
Thank you for watching. I appreciate your viewership.
Had a fantom x6 from 2007 to 2016 and needed an upgrade. Pre-ordered my montage in 2016 and I love it.
It's an amazing keyboard! Thank you for watching. I appreciate it.
Great comparison! Thanks!
Thanks for watching
Holly smokes. You my friend saved my butt. I was within minutes from buying the MODX+ when I decided to watch your review. Mintage it is for me. Just the build quality, the keyboard itself, the balanced XLR and the sound itself made a huge difference. Thank you so much for this incredible rehire
Balanced TRS jacks. Not XLR. If I said XLR in the video I certainly misspoke.
First class comparison if you are considering these products. I have a Montage 7 and a Modx 6 that I take to rehearsals as it’s much easier to carry. Modx is great value for money but I would have happily paid more to get a better Key-bed and the same memory capacity as Montage
Hello... I have a yamaha montage 6. How do I assign the small buttons under the sliders to act as "MUTE" for individual tracks? Also...how do I use the sliders themselves to act as volume for individual tracks...Is it even possible to do this.. I would greatly appreciate your help...ThankS.
The best review I’ve watched so far. ❤❤❤❤❤. Keep up the good work.
Great video! Can you update Time stamps in description?
I’m deciding between Modx and Montage. I own Korg M3 and Motif XF8 and deciding if I should get MODX 6 as a top rack compliment keyboard To my Motif XF8 OR sell my XF8 and replace it for Montage 8.
Thank you :)
Very Helpful Darrick!! Big Thanx.
Thanks for watching!
Hi great review.. Just to note that the Modx has got a midi through option.. I use it into my Deepmind to make it sync up with my MX-1mixer.. You basically just change the midi out to thru on the screen
Thank you for the compliment. I appreciate it. I am aware that the MODX has a MIDI through option via the operating system. But without the dedicated jack it cannot perform midi out and through simultaneously. But I did not make that clear in the video so the viewer could come away thinking there is absolutely no MIDI through option on the MODX so thank you for pointing that out. In my opinion the MODX is the best value synth on the market.
Is the key spacing on Yamaha 88 key synths the same as the spacing on the motif?
On a Montage, how do I control the USB volume using a slider or knob? I cannot figure it out! :(
Hi Darrick, do you know about Kurzweil PC4? And How do you evaluate this synth? As I know PC4's price is very close to MODX8..... also a very strong instrument.
I think the PC4 is a great synth. Powerful, great bread and butters sounds and it has an excellent price for what you're getting. The issue I have is with the VAST system. The approach to programming is a bit dated. The screen is smaller. And when I am on my keyboard for 10 hours that makes a huge difference. There is no audio via usb so, I cannot send multiple tracks to a DAW simultaneously with a pure digital signal. And a lot of the sounds quite frankly sound like keyboards from the 90's. The organs, clavinets, EP's, pianos all sound great. But guitars, saxophones, flutes, horns and even pads, etc sound a bit dated compared to the Yamaha in my opinion. I personally need to be able to play old 70's covers and modern EDM music. Kurzweil does great with the former but not the latter. Yes it is powerful, but less intuitive than the Yamaha in many respects. It's "difficult" to use kind of like my Korg Kronos which has a manual that is 1170 pages. I read the entire thing and still sometimes I am left scratching my head for hours. I simply do not want another "project" to be conquered. I've gotten my fill of that with my Korg.
Do you think the same "quality of key bed material" is the same for the Montage 6 as the 7? or is the 6 more like the MODX? trying to figure out if I should go for the Montage 6 vs. 7. Are they the same except the numbers of keys? Thanks, great video!
Yes the quality of the Montage 6 is identical to the Montage 7 because they are the same exact keybed. The MODX7 and MODX6 are identical to each other as well.
Hey Darrick. Very helpful video. (subscribed) I found the background sounds a bit distracting but you did a great job of covering those two keyboards. Thank you.
Sorry about that
@@darrickkeels6387 No apology necessary Darrick. I appreciated your work. That was just (hopefully) constructive criticism. I just purchased the MODX7+ and your review is right on. There's a lot I like about that MODX but that keybed is quick a bit odd feeling to me. I might have to switch to the Montage for that reason. Thinking about it . . . I wonder how different the keys will feel with the Montage compared to the MODX7+. No one around here (Raleigh NC) seems to have one in stock to try out . . .
thanks very helpful. I have a question about aftertouch on Montage,
Is it mono rather than poly? and im assuming its mono so does that mean pressing 1 key on a polyphonic sound mean all the notes held therefore say effect the aftertouch parameter so hold c e f and only press the c hard and does it act like you have pushed all note hard?
thanks
Yes. It is not polyphonic aftertouch.
@@darrickkeels6387 thank you appreciate it . It pro ably receives polyphonic after touch from external devices I'd expect or your daw 👍
Hi, I'm subscribed to your channel, thank you so much for these tutorials. I'm a Korg Kronos 2 73 user and I recently acquired a montage 7, by the way, an excellent machine.
I still see Kronos ahead of the montage in terms of sounds, not to mention Kapro's expansions that raised Kronos's level. Greetings from Brazil.
A Montage & Kronos with an iPad for potentially hundreds of different synth engines, or even better, a laptop with potentially thousands of different engines far out performs a Kronos.
For me, a MODX + a laptop provide not only a much lighter and less expensive solution, but a much more powerful solution too. I use an additional 61 key MIDI controller too that also weighs 15 lbs.
A Kronos or Montage/MODX could get you through a whole show, but for the kind of additional synths it doesn't make so well, neither does the Kronos. Using either alone would be a compromise.
@@n8goulet I can only disagree. If you spend the time to get fully into the Kronos' 9 sound engines, I dare to assert that you don't need any vst synths, unless you have a very specific sound idea that you just can't do on the Kronos. The Kronos is so deep that 99% of us will never get to explore everything you can do with those engines. You can spent the next 20 years on that thing and still find new sounds
Another thing is, I'd really wish Korg would have given us an equivalent to the Montage 7 with 76 synth keys and aftertouch instead of the LS which has absolutely no point to even exists.
@@mrdali67 Well that's just it. On many sounds we're covering from famous bands known for their sounds like say, Genesis, Yes or Styx, we do have a specific sound in mind. To think the Kronos 9 engines cover everything would be like saying the primary color palette will provide all the color you ever need. There are many variations. I could get through almost any song with my MODX just as if I had a Kronos, but for many songs, you'll never find anything too close without the proper engines, which are the proper tools. Could you get by? Sure. Will the songs sound the same like the famous bands I cover? No.
@@classicarcadeamusementpark4242 You can get really far with the Kronos engines in emulating really many classic analog and Digital synth sounds. The bare building blocks in most analog synths is exactly the same, and you may need to think out of the box to get to the goal for some functions, but fact is that most sounds can be acomplished around 90-95% like the original sound on many hardware synths and wether its a vst or a couple Kronos engines and some effects you use to get there is irellevant. If you want to compare the single sound up against each other none of them will get to sound just like the original sound from the original synth and recording, but most people arent gonna notice it anyway when the music plays if the sound is just 85% there or 99.9% Its just our knowledge that it isn't sounding exactly like the original. Most listeners arent even gonna notice if you use a rompler synth with a decent "Jump Pach" and facts is that still really many musicians isn't comfortable using a computer on stage, even a Kronos works exactly the same way like a Daw/vst setup on a laptop just limited to its build in software and what sample libraries you have access to
Are the keys on the MODX 8 the same smaller size keys as on the 6 and 7 or since it is a weighted keyboard, are they the same full size keys as the Montage? Also how does the keybed of the MODX 8 compare to the Montage 8.
The keys on the MODX8 are definitely full size rather than being slight smaller. The action is not as responsive as the Montage and at times it can feel a bit sluggish but it is a decent keybed. I would not describe it as cheap. I'd have no problem playing gigs with it.
@@darrickkeels6387 thanks, that was something I had never heard anyone address.
I bought a modx for gigging, as the montage is heavy as the tank its build to be.. i quickly changed back, montage is the perfect heart of a setup when you also use lots of software sounds (minstage + AU’s ). And its not just all the extra controlls ( those buttons to the right are so sweet in daw control, both in a studio, but also in a live setup) .. next to that there is no aftertouch on the modx, while they keybed feels flimsy compared to the Montage.
Even compared to other Workstations (kronos, fantom, Forte). I prefer the Montage as heart of a setup... altough i also think that for montage , having extra software sounds is more a must then the other workstations.. There is no VA, no wavetables(i am a huge wavetable fan) the organs lack autheticy, i love a wider pallette of piano’s then just Yamaha (glad there is the Bösendorfer) when solo playing piano... thats not a problem for me, even better, i think thats the way i prefer it and Montage is just perfect as a VST/AU controller.
This comment right here! At least you covered the fact that it's DAW friendly and with the Montage's extra controls! My Motif XF7 finally took a dive yesterday after 12 years, and just your comment convinced me to get the Montage! My Motif XF7 communicated with my DAW's perfectly (Ableton, Studio One), especially with the buttons it already had and as a workstation in itself. Although the MODX has transport controls as well, it would actually be a downgrade from the Motif XF7.
Thank You Sir for this video.
My pleasure! Thanks for stopping by again.
Great video Thanks from the UK.
Thank you!
I have a MODX7 and I'd prefer a Montage, even for gigging...however, there's one minor advantage of the MODX beyond the cost and weight savings--it has a perfect space on the right where I velcro my ipad! My ipad has set lists, some lyrics and most importantly plays my b3 organ app (B-3X). Due to the extra buttons on the Montage, I'd have to come up with a another handy spot for the ipad (I think, I haven't actually seen a Montage 7 in person but the space looks too small.)
The MODX6 or 7 is almost too light, but it's amazingly easy to put on and take off a stand. It has a lip near the back that helps you grip. Some keyboards, light or not, are more dangerous to handle; my old Motif was always in danger of being dropped due to the angles of the chassis.
Hey I'm watching you from Italy, great job, you are the best reviewer on UA-cam. And I have a question for you, in your opinion, for a person who doesn’t have a great computer (for the moment) and needs to practice the classic but also play in a post-rock band which would be better? I know that is a really general question but just in your opinion, which would you buy? Cause I watched a videl but I'm still in doubt if buy a kronos or a modx and pc/iPad 😅
I would get a MODX and a PC honestly. I love the Kronos but it is a bit dated and doesn’t really work the best with PC’s or MACs because it is a 32 bit system versus 64 but. Furthermore you only get two USB channels out versus 10 on the MODX.
@@darrickkeels6387 okok thank you so much, I have only another question, in your experience with DAW's, you think that maybe a person can work with an Ipad (of course with less opportunity of pc/Mac).
Or the pc/Mac it's a "must"?
Cause in the last period I have seen a lot of people that use only the iPad with cubasis for exemple
And I saw only now that I commented the "wrong video" 😂😅
However I also have to reformulate the first question, I don't wanna be to invadent, but I appreciate your opinion and I'm asking at different musician with more experience of me hoping to not make a mistake with my big purchase. So...
I'm studying piano from 8 month and also I have a post rock band,like I said.
I'm preparing for the conservatory and I'm playing on my home digital piano Roland RP 102 but with the band I play a really simple and old 61 keys of Yamaha.
So, I have to change my keyboard selling my home digital piano and I am really in doubt between modx 8 and kronos 88.
I listened the difference between them and I really like more the kronos cause I think that use only the keyboard(without external device) it's a process of more realistic creativity but I don't know, maybe as a first workstation it's not worth the money for what the modx also offers?
So the Kronos is a true workstation. The MODX is technically a synthesizer. In other words its focus is on sounds not production. You will need other tools if you want to create finished recordings. Yes you can produce some high quality stuff on a MODX using it’s basic sequencer but there is no way to edit wrong notes or shift their timing. It’s fast, basic, intuitive but not deep. The Kronos on the other hand has 9 sound engines with very very deep editing capabilities. It also contains a powerful sequencer capable of recording both MIDI and audio. It has an onboard sampler, a 62gb SSD onboard with an empty slot for another one. It has a host of sliders, knobs and buttons for live playing along with a very robust set-list feature. It’s only real downsides are that it is dated and the workflow reflects that. And it is hard to use. The manual is 1170 pages. Of course some people don’t like the sound of Korgs but that is a matter of personal preference. In my opinion if you do not plan on using the onboard sequencer, you are not going to sample sounds and you aren’t into sound design, and you have a few basic splits and layers for live performances, a Kronos is overkill. Kinda like buying a Ferrari to make a few grocery store runs on small residential streets. Unless of course you simply want the sounds. I use the Kronos for its sound engines and live playing functions mainly. The sampler is such a slow arduous process and the filing system is so complicated and convoluted so I use the MPC One for that. The sequencer is powerful but again dated. The workflow is very slow once the editing process begins. I either use Ableton Live, MPC One or the MODX (if I just need something quick) for my sequencing needs. The reality is this. The MODX is an awesome machine that offers maximum bang for your buck. The Kronos is the MOST powerful workstation on the market. If anyone is not capable of producing good music on these machines, the problem is not the machine.
Do you think that Yamaha has something coming up that will replace these.....or will they stay in their line being older models?
We can never be sure but I doubt it. Companies don't need to upgrade hardware as often as they did in the past because they can do software updates. Since launch they have added a ton of new performances, new effects like extended LFO, added a pattern sequencer, then increased its note capacity from 130,000 notes to 520,000 notes. We can now connect MIDI devices such as keyboard controllers to the usb to device input and not just flash drives. They've increased the number of songs onboard from 64 to 128 and added smart morph functionality to the FM engine etc. Fifteen years ago these kinds of updates were not possible. An "update" simply meant a few minor bug fixes. Updates of this magnitude required a whole new keyboard. Now they add new sounds and whole new features like a sequencer! It is much cheaper for keyboard companies to build upgradable platforms and entice new customers with software updates than to come out with brand new hardware. If they wanted to add onboard sampling to the Montage/MODX I am sure they could. Time will tell. But it seems more wise for them to milk everything they can out of their current platform before coming out with new hardware. Of course it is all speculation on my part. I could be wrong. But a new hardware platform would have to be something mindblowing that was several years ahead of the competition's technology otherwise it may end up being a flop, kinda like the Korg M3 or all of Kurzweil's launches after their 2013 PC3K series. Nothing else has taken off.
Hey, is the montage 8 keys more weighted than the MODX8? I just ordered the montage n i hope the keys are fully weighted.
They are fully weighted. But a much better quality than the MODX8.
@@darrickkeels6387 thanks for responding. does it feel like the motive, fantom or the Nord?
Great review thanks
Thank you for watching
Hi Darrick,
Great comparison. However, I think you forgot to mention that the Montage also has some called a Perfect Analog Circuit (PAC). The result of the PAC is the Montage produces a more dynamic and responsive sound. I used to own a MODX7 and I can tell you that the difference in sound quality is quite noticeable. In comparison the MODX sounds much more compressed and sterile than the Montage.
Oh yes I mentioned it at 28:06. And yes on my studio monitors I can hear a difference. But in a live setting or even just coming through my QSC K-Series 12.2 speakers, I cannot.
@@darrickkeels6387 You are right, I must have missed that. Thanks.
@@darrickkeels6387 Exactly.
The MODX is geared to be more of a live performance instrument. Light weight and affordable for us weekend warriors. Through the PA at music stores, side by side I usually can not hear a difference.
If recording via USB audio, does the PAC on the Montage make any difference or only for monitoring with studio speakers?
Excellent video. The reason I like the MODX keys is because arthritic hands handle it better. If I'm gonna drop a board and leave it for 2 or 3 days or put one in a static emplacement it would be the Montage without a doubt. If I'm town jumping, I'm going with the 12 lb MODX in a well padded and blocked gig bag. Quite a bit identical functionality. You kust have to menu dive on the MODX. Of course I have the Plus version with the same memory and stuff.
Great tutorial ,,,, way better than others!!! Liked shared and subbed 🎉
n8goulet added some fantastic info to your great video!!! I'm in the same boat I'm older now killed myself for 15 years lugging motifs everywhere, and now this MODX7 is perfect especially if you can add the NarSounds packs....
Hello . the piano on the Yamaha montage sounds better than the DGX 670 - 660 cvp?The quality of the piano and the sound. I use 2 Hs7 monitors and a Yamaha Hs8s subwoofer. Please answer me . thank you very much . Horia
Yes in my opinion the sound quality of MODX and Montage is better than the DGX670.
@@darrickkeels6387 Thanks very much!
How big of a difference is the keybed on the MOSX 7 VS Montage 7? Does the MODX feel really cheap?
Yes the MODX6 and 7 really do feel very cheap in my opinion. After playing it for some time eventually I have adjusted to it. It's definitely playable. But I think Yamaha could have put something a bit better on the MODX even if it meant raising the price by $300. That would still be a steal.
@@darrickkeels6387 I just got the MODX and I agree! The keys are better on my Jupiter 50. Also the sound output on the phones does really sound that good. I'm hoping live it will be a different thing. Yes, they should have added semi weighted keys. It does feel cheap, I a getting used to it, but it does feel very cheap.
Is it possible to compare them to moxf 8 ? Or the moitf xf8 ?
I may do that in the future
@@darrickkeels6387 if possible you can compare them to the korg krome ex
GREETINGS.......Thanks for the nice review. Please, would the MODX come with a SMOOTH SOUND TRANSITION feature.
Yes it does. However it only works when you use 4 parts or less. The Montage lets you have 8 parts during a smooth sound transition.
Excellent comparison if I decide to go the Yamaha route Montage will be my choice.
It's definitely worth the extra cash in my opinion. In my experience a robust build is worth it. Thanks for stopping by again my friend. I appreciate it.
Be sure to read my review before making your choice.
Are the keys the same for montage 7 as in 88 weighted amigo?🎼👑
No. They are semi-weighted synth action keys.
The keys on the modx8 aren't the same as on the 6 or the seven, correct?
No. The MODX8 is a weighted action, not a semi-weighted action.
Man great video. I literally do the same thing at my church, I sing/lead the praise team... Play the keys, lead the drummer and all. My question is... Is the MODX 7 a main keys type of keyboard? I only use one keyboard and if I get the MODX 7, that would be my only keyboard. From me reading the comments on your other videos and listening to this one, it seems the keys would really give me problems. But the MODX 7 is supposed to have semi weighted keys so isn't that better? I know.. that's like two questions in one lol
The MODX7 could certainly work as a main keyboard. It's "basically" just as capable as the Montage. The keybed of the MODX7 is the same as the MODX6. Chances are if you are playing it every week and it is your only board you will get used to it. If you can try one out at a store (even the MODX6) before purchasing it, that's what I would recommend. But if you are looking for something else in its price range that is just as powerful, you won't find it. But there is a possibility you don't need all of its "power."
@@darrickkeels6387 right right. I went to my stores. They don't have it for me to try out 🤦🏾♂️🤦🏾♂️. My other concern is that I normally use a Ep, Piano, Organ, Pad, Flute and Strings. Not all at the same time but I would Mix and match them throughout the service. Would I run into the polyphony problem? Or running to the unseamless scene problem?
If your interested in additional abilities, get a laptop and some soft synths to go with it. You won't find
better Hammond's, lead synths or variety in sound engines out of most hardware digital synths. Affordable,
small, and compact. iPad is also an option, less capable, but still good.
If you need a better keybed for playing serious "piano", the Montage 6 or 7 won't be good enough either. You"ll
need the Montage 8 or the MODX8 with hammer action piano keys. But if you play lead synth and organ
as I do, you'll barely be able to play that on hammer action keybeds. The only real option is to have two
keyboards at that point. If space or moving gear isn't not a problem, get an 88 key hammer action MIDI
controller to go with the MODX7. They practically give them away on the used market, and they aren't junk.
Many people just don't want to take up the space.
Going the Montage 8 route would cost $4000 and be back breaking to move. I can get a used 88 MIDI keyboard
with nearly as good of keybed for as little as $150 on my local Craigslist. Actually considering buying one, but
I know I wouldn't want to transport it to gigs unless I had say.....a church where I could just leave it. And also,
taking up the space in my house for something I really don't need too badly with the material I play, which
rarely calls for more than I can already provide for piano music in my bands.
I layer those exact sounds all the time ( excluding the organ) on the MODX. I have never had a polyphony problem. I do however stick to "single" parts instead of multi parts. For example if I am layering a pad and piano, I don't use the CFX Grand because it takes up 4 parts as opposed to some of the other pianos available that only take up one and thus usually using less voices.
@@darrickkeels6387 okay okay that sounds good. Would you say the keys are smaller in length and size compared to other keyboards or do they just feel cheap?
How is the keybed on the MODX 8 towards the Montage 8?
I would describe it as decent. I could certainly be comfortable playing it. But of course it lacks the refinement of the Montage, Fantom, Kronos, Nautilus, etc
@@darrickkeels6387 Thank for the answer. No more to ask. Good answer.
I have a question . I have an old cheap Yamaha PSR e -2000. It is already starting to fall apart. If I buy a Yamaha montage, is it possible to upload styles and sounds from PSR to Montage and everything will work?
No you cannot. The Montage uses what's called the AWM-2 (Advanced Wave Memory 2) sound engine. This is patented proprietary sample playback engine that allows the user to manipulate the sound in drastic ways. Most of the PSR Arrangers have the AWM engine which is older, has less bit depth, and lacks the flexibility of the second generation AWM-2 synthesis engine. Lastly the Montage is not an arranger. Now, it does have over 10,000 arps and you can also customize your own. But to get it to work like their arrangers would be really tough. It you want backing tracks to follow you chords in real-time, what you want is an arranger, not a synthesizer. The Montage is geared toward sound design and live performance real-time control over sound manipulation. It's does not excel at the "band in a box" tasks.
@@darrickkeels6387 What is the best and newest Yamaha model I can buy to put the rhythms from the PSR e-2000 into it, and to make everything work well and also to have a vocoder function
@@jezusowy6716 Probably the Yamaha Genos Arranger Workstation
This was super helpful. Still debating a little becuase the extra 1500+ is a lot. Really seems worth it to get the Montage 6. Especially because it would be my number 1 board.
Yeah...more than double the price but it's not more than double the power. Not even close. They are identical in many ways. For me it really comes down to the playing experience. The MODX has a tendency to slide around a bit on the stand because it is so light. The keys feel slightly smaller and the action is not quite as premium. When playing live I end up fiddling a bit more due to having less controls or I have to configure the board in a certain way to access the stuff I need, takes a bit of extra prep. There's the wall wart issue. Seamless sound switching with only 4 parts instead of 8. These things end up making the MODX a subpar main keyboard for me. It works great as a secondary keyboard though. But it all comes down to your budget and what you can and cannot compromise on. Thanks for watching.
@@darrickkeels6387 Are you comparing to a Montage 8 or any other Keyboard with a Full size Piano keybed ? Yamaha have always had smaller synth keys. Try placing a Montage 6 directly on top of a Montage 8 and allign the upper C key with the coresponding C on the model 8. You will notice that the lower C on the Montage 6 is roughly misplaced on the coresponding D key of the Piano key model. Heard several Piano players that was annoyed with Yamaha Synths when playing octaves because of this. Their brains and fingers is wired for the correct space from the Piano keys. Takes a bit to get used to, wether you go from either the one or the other
@@mrdali67 are you talking about Yamaha 88 key synths vs non key 88 Yamahas?
@@TBb____ 61/76 synth keys vs 88 piano keys
Their synth action keys always been a tad narrower than their Weighted piano keys. Both the top tier and budget tier keybeds
maybe i missed it but which one has better overall sound quality ?? and if so by how much ?
I can hear a bit of a difference on my studio monitors and the Montage sounds better. But not by much in any practical sense. When I am running them both through my QSC 12 inch loudspeakers, I cannot tell any difference. They sound the same at the Casino, at church and ultimately in the studio once I start mixing/mastering things in my DAW. I believe the MODX gives you the most bang for your buck. I got a Montage because of the hardware controls, the robust keybed with aftertouch, the seamless sound switching for up to 8 parts rather than 4, the increased polyphony on the FM side and the additional outputs on the back. Those things were worth it to me. But if it was just a matter of the sounds...I would not have gotten a Montage. It really sounds just like the MODX.
@@darrickkeels6387 Thank you I really appreciate the response this has helped me make a decision to go with the modx..cheers
Hi: The MODX-8 is amazing and I can't tell the difference in sound. The Montage wins as a stage instrument if you are playing horns, organ, piano and need to bring in those elements. Currently I use up to four parts because pressing a button to access another scene/part is a pain in the butt. That said, on the right side of my MODX is room for a Boss Space Echo and a Strymon Big Sky. The same open space on the Montage is full of buttons.
a lot of people actually use an expression pedal on things like strings so totally hands free especially good for say piano / strings / flute layered scenes. no need to touch a button and it sounds so much more natural
Which is more fun to play between PSR SX900 and Mod X?
Looking for the one that has the best pianos, synth sounds and overall less cheesy outdated sounds.
The MODX is better. It just has much deeper sound engines. The SX900 is not a synthesizer. It is designed for you to pull up presets and just play with an auto accompaniment.
@@darrickkeels6387 Yes, that’s what I thought. So I need to look at synthesizers. I have 3 in mind but I don’t know much about them. Roland Fantom, Korg Nautilus and Yamaha Montage.
Could you give me your thoughts on these 3? What do you like / don’t like about them and what would you choose?
The negetive side of both keyboard is that the Brightness of the screen is fixed. This is the problem I faced.
Modx randomly goes out of tune.
best compare video
The only bit I wanted to know is if the usb you didn't show on both is a c port or not
No. Both have USB A and B ports
@@darrickkeels6387 thanks
The deal breaker for me is the MODX GHS keybed. It has a notorious reputation for loose keys and deterioration over time. I had a MX88 with GHS action and dumped it after 6 mos due to loose, noisy keys. Search the Yamaha musician forums re: GHS if you have doubts. Montage 8 is Balanced Hammer with Aftertouch. There's none better. Same keybed as their new flagship YC stage. We can debate differences in sound quality since it's subjective to the listener, but keybed type and hardware architecture are facts not opinions. Bottom line, get the Montage 8 if you can afford it. I waited and got the Montage - glad I did. The MODX is a nice sounding synth, but based on over all sound & build quality the Montage has few equals.
I agree. When I talk about the keybed of the MODX, people often just say "It's not THAT bad." In all honesty, I can adjust to the feel of any keybed really. But I am more concerned with reliability and durability. A keyboard is played in a percussive manner, it has to be able to stand up to the rigors of constant play.
Yes agreed I owned the modx 8 and I did not like the keybed just not good at all went back to a motif xf with the balanced hammer action it's so much better
What about sound voices quality?
They pretty much sound identical.
in the shop they sound identical to me I dont know some people thenk they sound different its the same hardware and samples inside.
This review is really helpful! In another direct comparison video, the reviewer audibly doesn't reach the highest velocity layer on the MODX, but does so consistently on the Montage. Is that a phenomenon you noticed, too? See for reference: ua-cam.com/video/DDVCmhrSyJ0/v-deo.html
Very insightful
Thank you. I appreciate it.
@@darrickkeels6387 I don't know if I missed it but I think I didn't hear you mentioning the price difference
@@JamesRuga Yes I mentioned the MODX is less than had the price. I did not give a specific figure because people live in different countries, with different currency than the US dollar.
When connecting another keyboard to the Montage to its AD input, are we going to use both the L(mono)/R inputs? or just the Left input? Thanks.
@@darrickkeels6387 Oh okay. Thanks
MODX+ just closed gap a bit but think still same keybed
Yes they added an additional chip and .75 additional user flash storage which really makes internally closer to the Montage. The seamless sound switching is now for up to 8 parts vs 4. 1.75GB of user store, FMX polyphony increased from 64 to 128. It's a good buy for people who are looking to get a powerful synthesizer at a great price. The main differences however is still the hardware and build quality. More knobs, buttons, sliders, ribbon controller, additional outputs, pedal inputs etc are really what set the Montage apart. But the MODX+ is still one of the best value propositions on the market.
please can you explain to me what is a aftertouch ?
It's when the keys are not just touch sensitive but pressure sensitive. So you can push the keys down using pressure and activate modulation. It could be tremelo, pitch bend, a swell...etc
@@darrickkeels6387 thanks you
@@obisraelngawani1373 aftertouch is not polyphonic so if you press 4 keys at the same time but then press the say bottom key only to activate the modulation all the keys held will have the modulation added. just a point to note so its generally used for mono synth type playing . there are polyphonic aftertouch keyboards like the Roli Seaboards but they are just controllers
Of course the answer is to get one Montage and one MODX - The Montage clocks in @ almost 60 pds. add another 15-20 lbs for the case plus another 15 pounds for the dolly to store while you're playing -So the 30 lb. MODX makes sense for those fun, lo paying 1/2 hour gigs you have to shlep to through a crowd from far away parking with a keyboard stand, backpack, etc.
The MODX7 is my first synthesizer keyboard, the build quality (for me) is cheap.
I have MODX 6. Got it a bit cheaper thats why didnt get 7 and yes it feels kind of cheapish especially the keys.
@@GenosGlory Thanks for your feedback. Do you think it can hold up for a good while if using mainly in the studio as part of a DAW setup? Can't afford to buy and end up with key problems 😕
@@rizzleriz4457 Hi I have been using it for a month now and no problems at all. The keys are not the best but not the worst to a point you feel they are going to brake. It would be fine for a Studio setup and you wont even notice it.Keys play super smooth. The best keys I have played in a arranger or synth is the Kronos and Korg Pa4X. Even Genos didn’t feel high quality to me.
Don't feel cheap to me. I switched from a "premium" keybed synth.
It only feels cheap to people that have not used a wide variety of keyboards. I tried maybe over 100 in the past 35+ years.
If your looking for piano feel, you'd need the hammer action version.
I did recently try some professional MIDI controllers at Guitar Center with a very cheap feeling keybeds. They made the MODX keybed feel like it was Cadillac quality.
How is the montage 7 for gigging? I think more specifically I'm worried about the weight. And also how is the keybed for piano playing? I tried the MODX8 and was kind of disappointed by the action.
I'm considering the Montage 7 or the Nord Stage 3 76 HP, but there aren't any near me where I can try.
The Montage 7 is heavy. Considering it has 76 semi-weighted keys, people think it is fairly light. It isn't. With a case stuffed with pedals, cords, etc it will certainly be over 40lbs. It is 37lbs by itself I believe. It is lighter than my 50lb Korg Kronos but it isn't "light." The Nord is going to be a much better option weight wise. The Nord Stage HP 76 is about 10lbs lighter than the Yamaha. And I really like the keybed (and piano/organ sounds) on the Nord as well. Gigging with the Montage is certainly a joy though. It is simply more versatile. I am often called upon to play horns, synth bass, and other miscellaneous oddities in my band. For that the Montage is perfect because it is a synthesizer not a stage piano. However, if all I needed was piano, ep, clavs, organ and a few pad/string patches, I'd definitely pick the Nord to gig with over the Montage.
Most interference would be hum from improperly grounded power cables , or just lots of dirty power
Picking up a radio station is not normal interference and likely (in the church) was due to a much more major issue. My bet is speaker wire arranged just right , like when people get a radio station through their braces to their skull.
One of the biggest issues to look for is Wi-Fi routers nearby they can cause sounds .
Yes, unfortunately, as gigging musicians, we don't have control over improperly grounded power cables or dirty power in the venues we play. Having a keyboard with balanced outputs (paired with balanced patch cables) can help us avoid having interference issues.
The manual states no aftertouch but Bad Mr from Yamaha says the manual is wrong. Connect a keyboard that has aftertouch and it will respond to aftertouch. The cheap key bed on the modx doesn't have aftertouch.
if you play an external keyboard with aftertouch into the modx it can respond to the inputed aftertouch.
@@williamshaneblyth Yes it can.
dope
I had both , but the modx made a bad sound with the usb connection to the computer. Inuse to lov it but i sold it cause the static sound tru the usb.
Hmmm...I've never had that issue with mine.
all usb connections can have this sort of issue it can be a ground loop or a bad cable or the device you plug it into so not necessarily anything to do with the keyboard. I had a noise issue on my computer with a wired mouse i changed to bluetooth so my audio output wasnt getting the noise as I moved it. 1 of my keyboards if i used usb into a hub it was notice if i plugged it direct into one side of the computer usb plugs it was fine the other side of the computer usb it wasnt. you need to trouble shoot cables unplug everything else and try different ports. USB is often bad like this might be a computer issue
@@darrickkeels6387 noisy usb is common not from the keyboard itself but ground loops happen with USB gear and other gear attached and sometimes the computer its attached to. my usb mouse when moved used to add noise so i fixed problems by going Bluetooth. its a known usb issue as a standard. easy to troubleshoot. unplug everything but the 1 unit try different usb cables try a different power output that sort of thing. try different USB ports
Use shielded 1/4 inch mono jacks to avoid radio interference.
I always use shielded mono cables and still the MODX is more prone to getting interference because its connectors are unbalanced.
Please launch Yamaha genos with 61 keys because first time I saw this keyboard I got inspiration and it brings lots of ideas please launch this keyboard please with 61 keys and with same feature and it's easy to understand for every keyboard player
Are you doing a Giveaway?
Lol! No giveaways at this time.
I need all the help I can get. lol. Thanks.
take a shot every time you hear "robust". lol great review btw
😂😂😂
great content, thx! subbed.
that said i virtually come just now from having tested both machines extensively for about 4 hours.
both feel good, sound comparably good (the modx usb being a bit noisey, though) and seem well-built.
of course everything feels a little bit better and more refined and sturdy on the montage.
BUT not 1000 $ more refined.
you're gigging? buy the montage if you can, but the modx will do very fine.
you're recording and have all the peripherals? go with the modx.
the only machine you want to buy and use? save up to the montage.
my solution: not buying any, just staying with ableton live and native instruments kontakt6.
but both were tempting enough...
Montage sounds better than Modx. Even in youtube demos you can hear that. Flagships models always has better keys and better DACs than cheaper versions. Every brand does that. This makes a whole difference when you produce professional music. . But the Modx is great, i can make 10 good sounding albuns using only this synth.
If I was going to use the MODX to make an album in the studio I would plug it in to my DAW using the USB. This bypasses the DAC because it is a straight digital signal. It sounds exactly like the Montage at that point.
@@darrickkeels6387 Good point, but you still need the Modx DAC's to run audio for USB/MIDI messages dont you? Or it can be used as a softsynth? And using different keybeds, leads to difference in sound.
Another way to make any synth sound like "album ready" is to record through a front end, like good DI's, Stereo channel strip, stereo vintage preamp, etc. but this is more $$ to spend and not what we discussing here ahaha
never trust UA-cam they compress the heck out of the sounds. even a slight difference in playing volume makes one sound different to another. You need to listen on something like soundcloud its is a big difference and you can judge better.
Has the YAMAHA really 120V ? isn't 230V not the normal?
120V is the standard voltage in the United States.
@@darrickkeels6387 ah, many thanks for your answer. ok, I am living in Switzerland and here the standard voltage is 230V - I have ordered one MODS 8+, hopefully I get the one with correct voltage 🙂
ABOUT YOUR EXPERIENCE WITH KEYBOARD IS MORE CHEAPER THANK MODX8 AND SOUND VERY SIMILAR,,,,THANK YOU
I don't care how heavy the keyboard is, I take Montage any day!🔥🔥🔥 Specifically the 88
"The elephant in the room" is the fact that Montage has a lot more power of Audio strenght to the mixers when it comes to live playing.. huge difference. I play the MODX in the church and there is a reason why MODX is much cheaper; the audio sound out of the MODX is not strong enough!.. is too weak!!!!!!.. as Piano #2 a MODX will do but not as for main piano #1 the sounds are not strong enough and not clear enough; that is my honest experience with it. I'm buying a Montage next.
Thank you. I really do appreciate your videos and have subscribed. I have various keyboards including Motif, Modx, Access virus, Kronos, wavestate. The Modx has the vast majority of functionality as the montage.l. The montage is heavy to carry but better built and firmer keyboard. It also has double the faders and more control buttons. Similar polyphony but montage better. Modx plus points are that it is much lighter to carry. Same sound engine and sounds. Half the price and still one of the best workstation synths around. Nothing can touch it and I pair it with a wavestate, Ti polar, Minilogue xd and Sub 37. I'm studio based. If you're gigging then just try the build first. The montage is a better live performance option. In my opinion.
PS addendum... The Drum track as mentioned on the Modx is not on the montage which I think is a game changer. However more importantly, compare yamaha to korg on the kronos vs nautilus. Montage vs Modx. The nautilus is only a few hundred dollars cheaper than the kronos and montage. But double the price of the Modx. Modx wins. No contest.
Indeed. I still maintain that the MODX gives you the most bang for the buck on the market. Yes the Nautilus by Korg is out now but they stripped all of the faders and a whole host of buttons. The build quality is on par with the Kronos but it isn't less than half the price of a Kronos but about 2/3 the price. I have a Kronos so I personally do not need a Nautilus.
Thanks for the subscription. I appreciate it!
They added it in an update. If you press shift/control assign it pulls up the rhythm track functionality.
MODX is a PSR with an atomic engine.
The MODX-8 Has the weighted keyboard only. The 6 & 7 does not. I have the 88 keys and they feel like a piano and not a keyboard. You do pay for it.
looking to buy the modx 8 does it have after touch and a different feel as compared to modx6
The way I can describe it is that thebMODX6&7 Feel like a regular keyboard and the MODX8 has the hammer feel. If you try them together you can feel it as you play.
I actually learned it from a review I saw on UA-cam before I bought it. Not that the others are bad but I needed to have the piano hammer feel.
@@eddiesalinas5439 thanks for replying
The wall wart is the biggest deal breaker. I stick with my montage.
MODX is way much LIGHTER synth than a metal Montage, even MODX7 is lighter than Montage6... And that's why I sold the Montage and bought the MODX... I noticed than the Montage had worst screen touch sensitivity than the MODX - do You agree?
I agree that the MODX is far lighter. However the touch screens in the units are exactly the same. It is possible that your Montage screen needed to be calibrated. But they are 100% identical.
only 24 effects? lol
So basically the MODX's keybed is a piece of crap. No Aftertouch, keys break.
Would be better just as a rack-unit.
Well I haven't gotten a broken key on my keyboard yet😂. I can just tell it isn't very rugged. As far as after touch not many keyboards in its price range have aftertouch either
no thats over the top. No they dont break ive never broken one. they are not super premium they are somewhere in the middle of all semiweighted keys. if your a synth type player they are fine. if you sit and compare they them to a double the price unit then of course your going to feel a difference so no not better to get a rack they dont exist anyway.
Which is better for gucci mane type beats?