Want to buy a Yamaha MODX? EU: thmn.to/thoprod/550543?offid=1&affid=623 US: imp.i114863.net/2rEyeM If you want to buy one use my affiliate links. I get a small % on each sale and its a great way to support the channel
I just got the MODX6+ I have been jumping around youtube for tutorials. This was the best tour I have found. INCLUDING YAMAHA'S TUTORIALS. I have a history with yamaha '85 I got a DX7 and CX5M (small computer with 4op synth and sequencer) In '93 I got the SY99 and have had several Tg77 SY77s these are really the precursor to the Montage/MODX line they also had AWM and FM 6op. for someone who has a little experience with FM this was a killer tour. Superb work.
I have the MODX6. For what I paid for it, this keyboard sounds amazing. It's a HUGE bang for the buck. Best sounding digital keyboard I have played. The FM patches alone or combined with the acoustic pianos are great. The acoustic guitar and lead guitar patches are amazing! This is the first digital synth I have had in a long time that inspires me each time I play it. Great video, thank you for posting..
This was the best review of the MODX on the Entire You tube channel. Loved it and learned so much. Thank you! I am going to purchase the MODX8 because of this video.
Love the ability to map fm operator levels to sliders, the only other synth that I know that gives you tactile control in fm is the akemie’s castle (which is amazing btw!). PS - never wanted a coffee so bad in my life after watching this.
So, woke up this afternoon to about 12 new videos in my recommended on this new synth lol Glad to see Yamaha is aware of the UA-cam community. And of course, I clicked on yours first Bo ;) lol
It has many great sounds ... from cocktail lounge to rave warehouse to cathedral... 2000 presets! Lots of menu-diving... but powerful. Liked the coffee break music!
Thank you for doing such an in depth review on this synth.. Seriously thinking of buying one of these so the detail you went into about what it’s like to program was very informative.
Bo, thanks for really diving in and actually programming the synth! I wish you would take another look at the FM engine, with 8 operators it might be worth buying this synth just for it's FM capabilities alone. I have a feeling people will be selling FM patches for this synth for years.
Awesome video, this is what i needed, the real programming, too many playings in other vids, but you showed us what it really is.. Thank you.... Waiting for the product from India
Thanks again for a nice review. It may contribute to my return of a used Roland System 1 for a MODX6. Your video showed what Korg needs to detail for the Wavestate.
Back again. I tried one today, it's pretty amazing. That said if you want analogue sounds for synth patches I don't think this is the best choice, all the patches as programmed are very high end dominant, not warm and analogue sounding. I still liked them but just my observation.
That's true,polished hi fi glossy sounds,but lacking that analog warmth to it.I decided finally I will not buy MODX6,which I was after few days ago,rather will go with minimal setup,will get the three Reface models CS,DX and CP that will cover a lot of ground when hooked with my rverb ,delay pedals.I want fast intuitive synths,to create sounds on the go,these menu divings are s inspiration killers for me.
It’s not lacking that analogue warmth because it was never designed to be analogue or replicate it. It just is what it is and that’s either what you want or it isn’t. I’d be interested to know how the other one who replied here got on with their Reface DX because I had one and found that way less intuitive to create sounds on compared to this or the Montage.
Very nice demo of the MODX. I just wish Yamaha made the FM-X engine (which is based on the FS1r) like a complete FS1r. The 8 x noise generators with formants, Formant Seq and the formant waveform are missing in the FM-X engine. I hope it will added in a update.
Who agrees with me that Yamaha should just bring out that FM-X engine in a stand-alone instrument. Maybe call it the DX8 in honor of the 8-operator architecture and have DX8/6, ($799) DX8/7, ($899) and DX8/8 ($999) versions of it depending on keyboard size.
Thank you, Bo! I have applied for a job to the Yamaha Marketing department, ha-ha. By the way, I echo the other comments on the quality of your video. It is really useful to have someone dive into the instrument and do more than just play the factory patches. Here's another marketing idea: full length videos explaining all the features in depth, like they used to do with the Motif. I have a three DVD set on the original Motif. Something like this is more helpful than a pdf manual, one can see and hear the results of each action taken.
+gimble, Well, the MODX6 is only $1299, so it doesn't seems that unreasonable to me to offer only the FM side of it for $500 less. That $500 buys you arguably more than a $999 MOXF6 (less the full-featured sequencer.)
yeah, but i mean itmore politacally than that tbh bud, its how they price ranges and where that would fit in was more my point (i was a programmer for yamaha from 2005-2013 mostly motif and tyros) so range is an important thing to them and price points if that makes sense :) and lets face it the MODX pricepoint is stunning and expected to sell in huge numbers (and rightly so) so like i said not quite that easy/straight forward :)
That was a very good review, Bo, and congratulations on having supercute mini-me on your show. ;-) On the last segment: To be honest, in a "real life" situation (like playing in front of people with other musicians), the differences in sound output of instrument x compared to a modern workstation are purely academical. I think it's really a "lifestyle" decision to choose multiple "specialist" machines over one "can do all". That being said, workstations like the MODX are like the teacher's pet in class: They are very good, but no one likes them because they are so boring - creating fantastic sound poses no challenge at all. :-)
Thank you for the comment! I would agree for a live situation the difference is probably not noticable. But for other uses like sound design they are pretty noticeable I would say.
In my opinion, the thing that makes the sound of the Prologue stick out, are the shimmery digital effects. And I don't think the Modx has as shimmery digital effects. The other thing is the layering, but when it comes to layering the Modx beats the Prologue by the factor of XX. The modx allows for much more modulation, to introduce more movement to the sound, compared to any analog osc. What the Prologue has though, is a much nicer interface for building sounds. So that does for example the System-8, and Peak as well... and to some degree the DSI Rev.2 and Deepmind, and even the Nord stage series. And the interface is in many cases the reason to go hardware over software. But then there is Omnisphere 2.5. Combined with for example the StudioLogic sledge, and is can be a quite affordable hybrid, if one has the computer for it. But Omnisphere doesn't cover all ground of the Modx, as it doesn't have all the general purpose samples. But I would agree with the OP that when it comes to the sound it is mostly academic, especially considering the layering and modulations of the Modx compared to the Prologue. For complexity in sound, the Modx can beat the prologue, despite the Prologue's analog OSCs. It would have been better though, if the Modx had offered additional outputs, so that it would be possible to run some sounds through external shimmery effects, to combat that part of the Prologue, while still layering the performance with general purpose sounds. Even many software instruments, especially iOS instruments, do offer better interface compared to the Modx, and may support running different layers through individual effects. But the Modx is self contained. And even though it can to a lot, there are still limitations, and consistency that may not be the case when starting to use different softwares in a DAW host. The dilemma in my opinion is that the Modx could have been an ipad app + a good controller with keyboard and a few sliders and knobs, with built in audio and midi I/O, and an adjustable holder for the ipad (adjustable for the size of the ipad, as well as tilting), and that would have been an over all better product, and possibly at a lower price, even including the purchase of an iPad, and it would have had a much better touch experience, with bigger display even, with better readability, and it would also have allowed for loading other music apps when needed even if the Modx would have been a stand-alone that would not allow for integration with other apps. The only reason in my opinion for products like this to exist today, is really that no one does that perfect ipad dock/controller with audio/midi I/O, adjustable holder and a few soft controls.
Excellent video, Bo! I can't even consider an instrument as nice as this, but it sure was cool to learn about it! The "for the lulz" part was a pretty cool sound imo. I liked all the sounds you pulled out of it though. A lot of them were really quite relaxing :)
Red Means Recording how do you guys manage to make music with so much new gear to learn all the time? I’m trying to go the whole VST DAW way... but these toys are so nice...
@@JeffCfreeradiorevolution if you're focusing on learning new gear for reviews or demos than it's legit hard to make music. It's only really through practice and knowing your stuff inside and out that you get real results, so it's important to take time away from learning new gear to do that. But, also, learning the gear by making music on it is the best way to learn.
Red Means Recording yeah I totally agree. I’m currently learning piano to go with guitar and drums that I’ve already learned. It’s so important not to get distracted by new gear and focus on practice and making music. Thanks.
Thank you for the sound construction demo. I ordered the keyboard today on a whim (boys and their toys), after seeing a couple of sales type demos I wondered if I may have made an expensive mistake but thanks to you I can see it' relevance to my way of making music.
one of the interesting side effects of yamaha's new release is to price drop of the Yamaha MOXF6 and usually you get the flash ram card thrown in free..and that board has a usable sequencer!
Finally, Montage with rythm, at a reasonable price. Yamaha has finally gotten me excited again! And I have Omnisphere, but the super knob can provide interesting soundacapes.
Do you mean an actual preset as opposed to a sample of a preset?. If so that's amazing, but surely that would require the modx to either have or know about all the omnisphere waveforms and samples?. I would love it to be true as omnisphere is my favourite vst synth, so, I hope you don't mind me asking you to clarify.
Yo Bo, how do you feel about it after having worked with it for a while? Everything that I’ve heard from it sounds so glossy and shiny to my ears. Where would you start if you wanted to introduce friction, textures, character, grit, punch etc? I’d love to dig a little bit and see what’s possible.
Hey!! I think you are correct that its easy to make it sound glossy. What I would do is look at the part FX and introduce distortions, compressions etc. And then try and create a modulation for it, either with the motion sequencer or super knob, or both. Since I think you have a ton of options available from the insert FX to modulate this could make for some more living, dirty, textures. I would also stay away from the more pure sample sounds, and work from the synth waveforms instead and FM engine as they sound less "workstation", if that makes sense
@@BoBeats Agreed, I had wished Yamaha had put the basic waveforms into Init submenu (square wave, etc) on page 1 rather than having to search them out.
I have exactly the same question. Every time I hear the Modx sounds, I feel like i 'm entering the lobby of an expensive hotel where the carpets are thick and everything is polished and clean. On the other hand its architecture is promising great sonic adventures and unheard soundscapes. So the question is, can someone create something that feels raw, dirty, unpredictable, weird and unpolished with this charming toy? And the question uses the verb "feels" not "sounds"....
I played the 8 at GC today. The weighted action feels great...smooth and playable, not overly stiff. I think I would pay the extra to get the 88 keys, and that is extremely uncharacteristic of me.
Very nice job Bo! I've been looking for a legitimate, hi tech synth, but the Montage was just too expensive, and has no part of a workstation contained, so I could not justify the price. You have given way more detail than anyone else. I freakin' LOVE IT! A side by side comparison reveals the superior value of the Modx over the Montage. There is absolutely nothing, that justifies the enormous price difference in my opinion. I think I want the 61 key..maybe the 76? Not sure, but I will definitely get thus board..(and I have omnisphere, NI, etc) But I want a hardware synth. Finally Yamaha..I'm excited again.
Congratulations! Beautiful review! Very well explained and very well done. I love that coffee part (with all of its elements and fx's haha). I'm sure I'd never use more than 10% of these deep edit capabilities, but it seems it's easy to get complex, beautiful fat sounds. I agree Omnisphere is a beast and more affordable if you already have a computer, but this thing is portable and no computer dependent if you will. A great tool for those who want to learn how to play better with inspiring sounds ready to play at the press of a button. If only I had the money...
I found it fascinating that you mentioned the Prologue and the Digitone as I have a Prologue, I'm waiting for my Digitone, and intend to purchase a MODX6. I'm happy that Yamaha listened to not only mine, but many peoples comments on the Montage.
Thank you so much for the great review Bo. That clearly was an awesome in depth explanation of the capabilities. My last hardware synth (which I am still happy to play on every now and then) was the Korg M1. Getting bored of all the hazzle with soft synths (boot system, driver crash, incompatibility issues, etc.) I would very much like to go for a modern hardware synth. I also like the idea that the MODX8 has a GHS keyboard which is just great at this price (missing aftertouch is a pitty though). After watching your review I have the impression that the MODX series is a really good all-in-one-starter package. I will most likely go for the MODX8. Thanks a lot again.
Thanks Bo, I knew I already wanted it, but you've done a great job going into the synthesizer on a more deep level! I have a HUGE Motif synthesizer which is also awesome in it's own way, but programming it just is nearly impossible! I haven't even found out how to do an INIT voice on it!~ With this synthesizer and you showing me how to, it will be a lot easier. I am also curious how well the FM synthesis works! I know programming on the DX7, which I owned too was also a big challenge on the machine itself, and it seems much more easy here! Almost like the good folks of Yamaha looked at how FM7 and FM8 from NI works..... It just seems much easier and has more control over the entire parts! Just a few days and then I will get my MODX.... I can't wait ;)
Theres something about the sound of it. I mean its nice and super complex, but then it's kinda plastic sounding at the same. Then I think about how it would sound in a mix and it seems to have too much going on, like it just needs to be alone, if that makes any sense. Then there the menu diving for programming..it's just so incredibly awesome and has so much going that you could never really use it all and possibly just get lost. I think Im more with the alternatives that you mentioned at the end rather than this. They're far more focused and hands on. Great video as usual. I love that you actually explained how this thing works.
I like the synth but I would spend more time making patches than making songs I fear. I like to work really fast this has so many options I think I would get lost in patch making.
nice 1 bo! quick off the mark as always. i'll check out the full vid after the launch event. but, already I am wondering how do you get the dark theme on the display, I can't find that setting, need some expert advise please! :D
@@BoBeats I really like Yamaha boards, my first was a CS1x(blue). They always seem to deliver. I have been waiting for a full size board and many options that had been available that had been very pricey and heavy as well. This finally met the mark I had been patiently waiting on. My patientients finally paid off with a favorite brand as well. Mine comes in the mail tomorrow and look forward to all my jam sessions to come. Always a great video produced by you and love all your work, view points, and how it really speaks to the electronic musician in today's world. Best wished to you and your fam✌☮!
I mostly bought the MODX8 for the piano voices, because it is very lightweight compared to my old Yamaha P200 stage piano. But it is more than I needed on stage. So I plan on having it in my home studio and plan on buying a new state piano for on stage performance.
If this keyboard just had the FM and sampling functionality i’d be all in on this thing. The groovebox idea is cool as well though. Super unique product.
Good review, very deep. I have a fair bit of experience on an older, but somewhat similar board, the Korg Krome. I really liked the Krome, especially its generous multi-timbrality. However, the one drawback was that, much like a soft synth, you needed to know what sound you are looking for before you started diving into the menus to program. If you like turning knobs and moving sliders, or plugging in patch cords to discover new sounds on the fly, this is not the synth for you. However, if you are a gigging musician, you can set one of these MODX's (or a Krome) to cover a whole set of sounds with just a tap on the screen, or turn of the dial, which is cool. With the sample-based engines you also get the "bread & butter" pianos, EPs, organs, strings, choirs, etc. that are the staples of most sets. I think Yamaha will sell a bunch of these to gigging musicians working with the excellent (but aging) MOTIF workstations.
I had a Krome too, as well as one of the first MOXs. Eventually sold them both for different reasons, kind of regretted selling the MOX so this should be a nice combination of them both. I heard this has a full sequencer in it, not sure abut that yet though.
Totally agree with that geecen .... out of all the features on what Yam are claiming as a 'performance synth for the road' (ie. stage), it MUST have AT right?, even at this price point. I asked Dom from Yam this specific qu. on his channel regarding whether it receives / responds to AT and also Release Velocity. He just said today in his qu/ans review of our YT'ers MODX queries it does for AT which sort of helps (need to check RV too as he didn't mention that) - it should be in the MODX "MIDI Implementation Sheets". I truly believe it's not due to on-cost of the AT keybed as loads of low-end synths have this feature, but rather if they did, it'll kill the Montage 'pro' board sales, in the same way they had to pick 44.1Khz sample rate rather than 192 which again in this day & age, would only be nominal cost hit, honestly. Shame :/ If they brought out a desktop or flat rack panel version I'd be up for that! :p Cheers.
wow . if only there was an explanation like this when i got my montage ! thanks so much.this looks great. not sure though if i could handle the menu diving...so deep. the montage made me feel ill just trying to save things,but this video makes me understand whats hapening !!!! i rekon this is one the best sounding live synth made for sample based sounds ....... but i hate that touch screen.... and no sequencer it seems....
It sounds great but there's something I can't seem to understand from all the reviews: can you program your own sounds without relying only on the touch screen, but using the various knobs and sliders?
.why yamaha montage 8 does not have string resonance an damper resonance ,that very important for piano playing.......? i hope will be able in the next update ...... thank you .
Want to buy a Yamaha MODX?
EU: thmn.to/thoprod/550543?offid=1&affid=623
US: imp.i114863.net/2rEyeM
If you want to buy one use my affiliate links. I get a small % on each sale and its a great way to support the channel
I just got the MODX6+ I have been jumping around youtube for tutorials.
This was the best tour I have found. INCLUDING YAMAHA'S TUTORIALS. I have a history with yamaha '85 I got a DX7 and CX5M (small computer with 4op synth and sequencer) In '93 I got the SY99 and have had several Tg77 SY77s these are really the precursor to the Montage/MODX line they also had AWM and FM 6op. for someone who has a little experience with FM this was a killer tour. Superb work.
Thank you!!
I have the MODX6. For what I paid for it, this keyboard sounds amazing. It's a HUGE bang for the buck. Best sounding digital keyboard I have played. The FM patches alone or combined with the acoustic pianos are great. The acoustic guitar and lead guitar patches are amazing! This is the first digital synth I have had in a long time that inspires me each time I play it. Great video, thank you for posting..
synthartist69 Does the Keynes feel too plasticy? What would you compare the keys to
djpioneer937 Keynes?
It comes with a baby!!
It also has 1G of internal flash memory for your odd samples made in sound editors and whatnot.
Ah gonna have to pass on this one then.
Too much maintenance, I'll pass
Great hands on review. And nice coffee break. You made me go get one.
This was the best review of the MODX on the Entire You tube channel. Loved it and learned so much. Thank you! I am going to purchase the MODX8 because of this video.
I do appreciate what yamaha made with this mini montage!! and i do love your armchair too!!!!!
Me to I like the armchair seems every reviewer has it on youtube.
I was set on not buying anymore keyboard instruments...until I saw this!
You pretty much sold me on this! well done!
It is impressive to see how easy the operating system is to use on this synth. The review is also very good. Thank you.
That is one of the best reviews of the Modx on youtube Bo.
BEST DESIGN TUTORIAL FOR MODX EVER!
Wow! Great video! So many voices, so many layers...
Congrats on having the first in depth review
Cheers!
Love the ability to map fm operator levels to sliders, the only other synth that I know that gives you tactile control in fm is the akemie’s castle (which is amazing btw!). PS - never wanted a coffee so bad in my life after watching this.
That performance you made @5:06 is amazing!!!!!!!
I just purchased my MODX7, I love it already!! Thanks for this video!
i love how your hand movements mimic your words subconciously
I saw a lot of reviews on the MODX 6, even spokespersons for companys. but none was able to go in-depth like you. now I really can't wait to get one
The other video's I've seen about this made MODX sound like old casio's, but your video makes me reconsider buying.... Thanks for your video work!!!
What a machine!!!.... Great review!.. more videos like this! Super job Bo!!!!!
Just ordered. Thanks Bo. And I hope you’re having a nice summer.
Yamaha seems to have sent lots of these around to people which is good. People can truly decide from all these videos.
I bought mine after watching a video.
So, woke up this afternoon to about 12 new videos in my recommended on this new synth lol Glad to see Yamaha is aware of the UA-cam community. And of course, I clicked on yours first Bo ;) lol
It has many great sounds ... from cocktail lounge to rave warehouse to cathedral... 2000 presets!
Lots of menu-diving... but powerful. Liked the coffee break music!
Thank you for doing such an in depth review on this synth.. Seriously thinking of buying one of these so the detail you went into about what it’s like to program was very informative.
Cheers!!
Bo, thanks for really diving in and actually programming the synth!
I wish you would take another look at the FM engine, with 8 operators it might be worth buying this synth just for it's FM capabilities alone. I have a feeling people will be selling FM patches for this synth for years.
Thank you! It could possibly be a follow up video
Ok I made my mind up, I’m getting the MODX8✊🏿
Thanks for this video!!!
I ordered a modx7 yesterday. Before watching any review. I wanted a montage but the €€€... This is the one
Awesome video, this is what i needed, the real programming, too many playings in other vids, but you showed us what it really is.. Thank you.... Waiting for the product from India
A huge hi-five to that mate! Waiting for it to come to India too!
@@viyandsouza_stream a friend of mine already brought it, 😂
Ordered it an hour ago!😂😛 thanks buddy!!
David Pachuau how is that funny? Like at all?
Haut Strange He may have interpreted the emoji to be of someone crying given the tears on it. That help?
Thanks again for a nice review. It may contribute to my return of a used Roland System 1 for a MODX6. Your video showed what Korg needs to detail for the Wavestate.
Back again. I tried one today, it's pretty amazing. That said if you want analogue sounds for synth patches I don't think this is the best choice, all the patches as programmed are very high end dominant, not warm and analogue sounding. I still liked them but just my observation.
That's true,polished hi fi glossy sounds,but lacking that analog warmth to it.I decided finally I will not buy MODX6,which I was after few days ago,rather will go with minimal setup,will get the three Reface models CS,DX and CP that will cover a lot of ground when hooked with my rverb ,delay pedals.I want fast intuitive synths,to create sounds on the go,these menu divings are s inspiration killers for me.
It’s not lacking that analogue warmth because it was never designed to be analogue or replicate it. It just is what it is and that’s either what you want or it isn’t. I’d be interested to know how the other one who replied here got on with their Reface DX because I had one and found that way less intuitive to create sounds on compared to this or the Montage.
@@X22GJP Yes but it has analogue type sounds example, saw, sine, pulse etc. which sound very digital that was my point.
Very nice demo of the MODX. I just wish Yamaha made the FM-X engine (which is based on the FS1r) like a complete FS1r. The 8 x noise generators with formants, Formant Seq and the formant waveform are missing in the FM-X engine. I hope it will added in a update.
Who agrees with me that Yamaha should just bring out that FM-X engine in a stand-alone instrument. Maybe call it the DX8 in honor of the 8-operator architecture and have DX8/6, ($799) DX8/7, ($899) and DX8/8 ($999) versions of it depending on keyboard size.
Solid idea right here!
Thank you, Bo! I have applied for a job to the Yamaha Marketing department, ha-ha. By the way, I echo the other comments on the quality of your video. It is really useful to have someone dive into the instrument and do more than just play the factory patches. Here's another marketing idea: full length videos explaining all the features in depth, like they used to do with the Motif. I have a three DVD set on the original Motif. Something like this is more helpful than a pdf manual, one can see and hear the results of each action taken.
doesnt hurt to dream, but would never be at those price points (not much more tho) :)
+gimble, Well, the MODX6 is only $1299, so it doesn't seems that unreasonable to me to offer only the FM side of it for $500 less. That $500 buys you arguably more than a $999 MOXF6 (less the full-featured sequencer.)
yeah, but i mean itmore politacally than that tbh bud, its how they price ranges and where that would fit in was more my point (i was a programmer for yamaha from 2005-2013 mostly motif and tyros) so range is an important thing to them and price points if that makes sense :) and lets face it the MODX pricepoint is stunning and expected to sell in huge numbers (and rightly so) so like i said not quite that easy/straight forward :)
That was a very good review, Bo, and congratulations on having supercute mini-me on your show. ;-) On the last segment: To be honest, in a "real life" situation (like playing in front of people with other musicians), the differences in sound output of instrument x compared to a modern workstation are purely academical. I think it's really a "lifestyle" decision to choose multiple "specialist" machines over one "can do all". That being said, workstations like the MODX are like the teacher's pet in class: They are very good, but no one likes them because they are so boring - creating fantastic sound poses no challenge at all. :-)
Thank you for the comment! I would agree for a live situation the difference is probably not noticable. But for other uses like sound design they are pretty noticeable I would say.
In my opinion, the thing that makes the sound of the Prologue stick out, are the shimmery digital effects. And I don't think the Modx has as shimmery digital effects. The other thing is the layering, but when it comes to layering the Modx beats the Prologue by the factor of XX.
The modx allows for much more modulation, to introduce more movement to the sound, compared to any analog osc.
What the Prologue has though, is a much nicer interface for building sounds. So that does for example the System-8, and Peak as well... and to some degree the DSI Rev.2 and Deepmind, and even the Nord stage series. And the interface is in many cases the reason to go hardware over software. But then there is Omnisphere 2.5. Combined with for example the StudioLogic sledge, and is can be a quite affordable hybrid, if one has the computer for it. But Omnisphere doesn't cover all ground of the Modx, as it doesn't have all the general purpose samples.
But I would agree with the OP that when it comes to the sound it is mostly academic, especially considering the layering and modulations of the Modx compared to the Prologue. For complexity in sound, the Modx can beat the prologue, despite the Prologue's analog OSCs. It would have been better though, if the Modx had offered additional outputs, so that it would be possible to run some sounds through external shimmery effects, to combat that part of the Prologue, while still layering the performance with general purpose sounds.
Even many software instruments, especially iOS instruments, do offer better interface compared to the Modx, and may support running different layers through individual effects. But the Modx is self contained. And even though it can to a lot, there are still limitations, and consistency that may not be the case when starting to use different softwares in a DAW host.
The dilemma in my opinion is that the Modx could have been an ipad app + a good controller with keyboard and a few sliders and knobs, with built in audio and midi I/O, and an adjustable holder for the ipad (adjustable for the size of the ipad, as well as tilting), and that would have been an over all better product, and possibly at a lower price, even including the purchase of an iPad, and it would have had a much better touch experience, with bigger display even, with better readability, and it would also have allowed for loading other music apps when needed even if the Modx would have been a stand-alone that would not allow for integration with other apps.
The only reason in my opinion for products like this to exist today, is really that no one does that perfect ipad dock/controller with audio/midi I/O, adjustable holder and a few soft controls.
This is the Best video that explains this keyboard, thanks Bo
Great video. I like how you demonstrated the features of the MODX in an easy to understand way.
Excellent video, Bo! I can't even consider an instrument as nice as this, but it sure was cool to learn about it!
The "for the lulz" part was a pretty cool sound imo.
I liked all the sounds you pulled out of it though. A lot of them were really quite relaxing :)
Great walkthrough, Bo! I want one of these now! I hate you!
I love you!! 😘
Red Means Recording how do you guys manage to make music with so much new gear to learn all the time? I’m trying to go the whole VST DAW way... but these toys are so nice...
@@JeffCfreeradiorevolution if you're focusing on learning new gear for reviews or demos than it's legit hard to make music. It's only really through practice and knowing your stuff inside and out that you get real results, so it's important to take time away from learning new gear to do that. But, also, learning the gear by making music on it is the best way to learn.
Red Means Recording yeah I totally agree. I’m currently learning piano to go with guitar and drums that I’ve already learned. It’s so important not to get distracted by new gear and focus on practice and making music. Thanks.
I read "I hate you" in Anakin Skywalker's voice.
Thank you for the sound construction demo. I ordered the keyboard today on a whim (boys and their toys), after seeing a couple of sales type demos I wondered if I may have made an expensive mistake but thanks to you I can see it' relevance to my way of making music.
Long time soncw i posted.
Wow is that a new little bo?! Congratulating!
Thank you Max!!
one of the interesting side effects of yamaha's new release is to price drop of the Yamaha MOXF6 and usually you get the flash ram card thrown in free..and that board has a usable sequencer!
I call it “Bob.” Funny!! Fantastic and informative video. Thank you.
Finally, Montage with rythm, at a reasonable price. Yamaha has finally gotten me excited again! And I have Omnisphere, but the super knob can provide interesting soundacapes.
Nice overview. I think it sounds great.
I'd like to hear more of "coffee break", nice work. Very informative review as well.
Check the sound demo
Thanx x t great vid!!... Im learning and enjoying this synth and your tutorial helped a lot
BoBaby is so cute! all the best man!
Can i control Ableton with it? i would like to use it as a synth and also as a kind of midi keyboard for Ableton to record midi and also automations
actually you can export a Omnisphere preset and upload into the Modx, for me it's a gamechanger.
Do you mean an actual preset as opposed to a sample of a preset?. If so that's amazing, but surely that would require the modx to either have or know about all the omnisphere waveforms and samples?. I would love it to be true as omnisphere is my favourite vst synth, so, I hope you don't mind me asking you to clarify.
Through using Sample Robot?
I absolutely love your reviews.
I wasn't aware that I needed this and I also wasn't aware how sensual coffee can be
Yo Bo, how do you feel about it after having worked with it for a while? Everything that I’ve heard from it sounds so glossy and shiny to my ears. Where would you start if you wanted to introduce friction, textures, character, grit, punch etc? I’d love to dig a little bit and see what’s possible.
Hey!! I think you are correct that its easy to make it sound glossy. What I would do is look at the part FX and introduce distortions, compressions etc. And then try and create a modulation for it, either with the motion sequencer or super knob, or both. Since I think you have a ton of options available from the insert FX to modulate this could make for some more living, dirty, textures. I would also stay away from the more pure sample sounds, and work from the synth waveforms instead and FM engine as they sound less "workstation", if that makes sense
@@BoBeats Agreed, I had wished Yamaha had put the basic waveforms into Init submenu (square wave, etc) on page 1 rather than having to search them out.
I have exactly the same question. Every time I hear the Modx sounds, I feel like i 'm entering the lobby of an expensive hotel where the carpets are thick and everything is polished and clean. On the other hand its architecture is promising great sonic adventures and unheard soundscapes. So the question is, can someone create something that feels raw, dirty, unpredictable, weird and unpolished with this charming toy? And the question uses the verb "feels" not "sounds"....
BoBeats l
Great introduction, really enjoyed your video.
Great Overview, Thank You
Bob is dope. I can only dream Yamaha will release a VST version.
I played the 8 at GC today. The weighted action feels great...smooth and playable, not overly stiff. I think I would pay the extra to get the 88 keys, and that is extremely uncharacteristic of me.
Very nice job Bo! I've been looking for a legitimate, hi tech synth, but the Montage was just too expensive, and has no part of a workstation contained, so I could not justify the price. You have given way more detail than anyone else. I freakin' LOVE IT! A side by side comparison reveals the superior value of the Modx over the Montage. There is absolutely nothing, that justifies the enormous price difference in my opinion. I think I want the 61 key..maybe the 76? Not sure, but I will definitely get thus board..(and I have omnisphere, NI, etc) But I want a hardware synth. Finally Yamaha..I'm excited again.
The New sequencer update makes it the best value workstations board out there imo
Congratulations! Beautiful review! Very well explained and very well done. I love that coffee part (with all of its elements and fx's haha). I'm sure I'd never use more than 10% of these deep edit capabilities, but it seems it's easy to get complex, beautiful fat sounds. I agree Omnisphere is a beast and more affordable if you already have a computer, but this thing is portable and no computer dependent if you will. A great tool for those who want to learn how to play better with inspiring sounds ready to play at the press of a button. If only I had the money...
I found it fascinating that you mentioned the Prologue and the Digitone as I have a Prologue, I'm waiting for my Digitone, and intend to purchase a MODX6. I'm happy that Yamaha listened to not only mine, but many peoples comments on the Montage.
Thank you so much for the great review Bo. That clearly was an awesome in depth explanation of the capabilities. My last hardware synth (which I am still happy to play on every now and then) was the Korg M1. Getting bored of all the hazzle with soft synths (boot system, driver crash, incompatibility issues, etc.) I would very much like to go for a modern hardware synth. I also like the idea that the MODX8 has a GHS keyboard which is just great at this price (missing aftertouch is a pitty though). After watching your review I have the impression that the MODX series is a really good all-in-one-starter package. I will most likely go for the MODX8. Thanks a lot again.
Full on review, brill - thanks the Bo-ster !
Thanks Bo, I knew I already wanted it, but you've done a great job going into the synthesizer on a more deep level! I have a HUGE Motif synthesizer which is also awesome in it's own way, but programming it just is nearly impossible! I haven't even found out how to do an INIT voice on it!~ With this synthesizer and you showing me how to, it will be a lot easier. I am also curious how well the FM synthesis works! I know programming on the DX7, which I owned too was also a big challenge on the machine itself, and it seems much more easy here! Almost like the good folks of Yamaha looked at how FM7 and FM8 from NI works..... It just seems much easier and has more control over the entire parts! Just a few days and then I will get my MODX.... I can't wait ;)
Theres something about the sound of it. I mean its nice and super complex, but then it's kinda plastic sounding at the same. Then I think about how it would sound in a mix and it seems to have too much going on, like it just needs to be alone, if that makes any sense. Then there the menu diving for programming..it's just so incredibly awesome and has so much going that you could never really use it all and possibly just get lost. I think Im more with the alternatives that you mentioned at the end rather than this. They're far more focused and hands on. Great video as usual. I love that you actually explained how this thing works.
Can't wait to get mine
Another great review. Like'd it before the first few seconds for your beautiful baby.
You sir are sneaky.. "here just let me sneak this super cute baby in here while I play some super dope music" now I must have this
🤣💪
Indeed. Now that they've -appeared- co-starred in your vids, does Swedish tax code allow you to declare your children as business deductions? ;o)
Why should we buy a montage?
Great work mate
You got a great helper Bo! God bless
KEEP PUSHING OUT GREAT CONTENT !!!!!
I like the synth but I would spend more time making patches than making songs I fear. I like to work really fast this has so many options I think I would get lost in patch making.
nice 1 bo! quick off the mark as always. i'll check out the full vid after the launch event. but, already I am wondering how do you get the dark theme on the display, I can't find that setting, need some expert advise please! :D
Ive had it for a few weeks
perfect, i'll try and catch up by watching your tutorial!
I love long videos, like Cuckoo 👍
#Congratulations
Is there a way in the global menu to turn the beep, beep OFF! Seems really annoying the beep beep!
Yes there is
@@BoBeats I really like Yamaha boards, my first was a CS1x(blue). They always seem to deliver. I have been waiting for a full size board and many options that had been available that had been very pricey and heavy as well. This finally met the mark I had been patiently waiting on. My patientients finally paid off with a favorite brand as well. Mine comes in the mail tomorrow and look forward to all my jam sessions to come. Always a great video produced by you and love all your work, view points, and how it really speaks to the electronic musician in today's world. Best wished to you and your fam✌☮!
Great videos man!
I mostly bought the MODX8 for the piano voices, because it is very lightweight compared to my old Yamaha P200 stage piano. But it is more than I needed on stage. So I plan on having it in my home studio and plan on buying a new state piano for on stage performance.
It's an interesting synth with many deep layers and sounds great. But all that menu diving might just send me round the bend !!
If this keyboard just had the FM and sampling functionality i’d be all in on this thing. The groovebox idea is cool as well though. Super unique product.
👍Great Review...thank you.
Great video, thank you, sir!
Great explanations and details, awesome vid,thankyou,best wishes to you all, from, Auckland, New Zealand. 🎹👑⭐🏅👍💯✅❤🙂🙂🙂🎹🎼🎵🎶
That first patch (Bob) reminded me of 'When I grow up' by Fever Ray
Im diggin the toddler... great marketing strategy
Is this some sort of late-nineties retro party? Digipunk taken to extreme?
that sound @10.03 can be easily used for a John Carpenters "Escape From New York" cover theme. nice!
Good review, very deep. I have a fair bit of experience on an older, but somewhat similar board, the Korg Krome. I really liked the Krome, especially its generous multi-timbrality. However, the one drawback was that, much like a soft synth, you needed to know what sound you are looking for before you started diving into the menus to program. If you like turning knobs and moving sliders, or plugging in patch cords to discover new sounds on the fly, this is not the synth for you. However, if you are a gigging musician, you can set one of these MODX's (or a Krome) to cover a whole set of sounds with just a tap on the screen, or turn of the dial, which is cool. With the sample-based engines you also get the "bread & butter" pianos, EPs, organs, strings, choirs, etc. that are the staples of most sets. I think Yamaha will sell a bunch of these to gigging musicians working with the excellent (but aging) MOTIF workstations.
I had a Krome too, as well as one of the first MOXs. Eventually sold them both for different reasons, kind of regretted selling the MOX so this should be a nice combination of them both. I heard this has a full sequencer in it, not sure abut that yet though.
thank you for your amazing video
Main downside from specs seems would be - for me - lack of aftertouch. I know it will have cuts from the montage, but it seems a bad decision.
Totally agree with that geecen .... out of all the features on what Yam are claiming as a 'performance synth for the road' (ie. stage), it MUST have AT right?, even at this price point. I asked Dom from Yam this specific qu. on his channel regarding whether it receives / responds to AT and also Release Velocity. He just said today in his qu/ans review of our YT'ers MODX queries it does for AT which sort of helps (need to check RV too as he didn't mention that) - it should be in the MODX "MIDI Implementation Sheets". I truly believe it's not due to on-cost of the AT keybed as loads of low-end synths have this feature, but rather if they did, it'll kill the Montage 'pro' board sales, in the same way they had to pick 44.1Khz sample rate rather than 192 which again in this day & age, would only be nominal cost hit, honestly. Shame :/ If they brought out a desktop or flat rack panel version I'd be up for that! :p Cheers.
AT would add $1000 to the price,
The tone generator responds to after touch so just connect a keyboard that has it.
Trying locate that sound @ 2:16. I've searched for it, but so far, couldn't find it. So, I came here to ask.
Great video. I think I will get one for Christmas for my corona studio ;-)
Your Mini-Bo is awesome ;)
wish my kurzweil k2000 had a touch screen like that.
wow . if only there was an explanation like this when i got my montage ! thanks so much.this looks great. not sure though if i could handle the menu diving...so deep. the montage made me feel ill just trying to save things,but this video makes me understand whats hapening !!!! i rekon this is one the best sounding live synth made for sample based sounds ....... but i hate that touch screen.... and no sequencer it seems....
Such a cute little baby! I miss when my little boy was that size. :)
Hi congrats for this great video, I still have one question, is it possible to send ipad app sounds trough the built in audio interface like MOXF?
Yeah it works likr an audio interface for ipads yeah
It sounds great but there's something I can't seem to understand from all the reviews: can you program your own sounds without relying only on the touch screen, but using the various knobs and sliders?
Sounds awesome.
great video I want one for the dx
I haven't even watched this yet, i liked it for the kid.
.why yamaha montage 8 does not have string resonance an damper resonance ,that very important for piano playing.......? i hope will be able in the next update ...... thank you .