I replied this on someone else's comment: presets can be dated, synths cannot. Considering that the bones of the Motif are still alive in 2024, it just goes to show you that great sound designing can bring fresh life into any synth. If all you chase are prepackaged presets, you're better off just doing the laptop and VST move.
I'll never understand when people say that certain sounds are "outdated". The harpsichord has been around for centuries, yet, millions of people go gaga over music from the baroque period; specially J.S. Bach, Vivaldi and Handel.
Point well taken, Joseph. And, why did Yamaha introduce the MODX featuring the FM synthesis of their DX7, and why does Korg continue to offer sounds from their M1 and Triton workstations, and why does Roland continue to offer the sounds from their Jupiter and Juno lines of synths and their TR drum machines, and how about all of the vintage analog synths and keyboards that everyone can't get enough of, i.e., Sequential Circuits, Mood, Arp, Oberheim, Clavinet, Rhodes, Wurlitzer, Hammond B3, etc.?
Well, acoustic instruments can't really be compared to Synthesizers and Samplers/Romplers. The fidelity, dynamic and harmonics are really beyond anything that was technically possible to recreate convincingly until only a few years ago. Therefore an "outdated" sound (a facsimile of an acoustic instrument) refers to the technology that was used to recreate it, bearing the quality and characteristics of that technology.
They sound dated because they are dated. Things like a harpsichord are not a dynamic instrument, they only have one velocity, and thus are relatively simple to sample accurately. But things like pianos, guitars, etc, require much more than just press something and it works. Sampling technologies have really ramped up over the past 10 years, massive jumps in quality and realism have been seen and heard this decade and Kontakt sample libraries are getting crazy good to the point they don't sound "digital." Bit rates, coding, velocity layers,and the way things are sampled have gotten substantially better since the ES8. And while yes, there are people who still chase down the classic analog synth of years past, this isn't analog, and this sounds digital and of its early 2000s digital synth era. VSTs, as well as modern digital synth, have gotten really close to sounding like the real analog synths, and VSTs like Serum show the massive difference in what modern vs 2003 sounds like. So yes, some sounds do sound "dated," because they lack the depth and accuracy of what we get in the modern stuff.
I bought a Motif ES rack... very usable sounds. I run that with a QY700 sequencer (rubbish sounds) but great flexibility put together with a controller MIDI keyboard.
@@K1TTENM1TTEN I have to disagree with you take as it only applies to people who just simply play with prepackaged presets. For people who love sound design, "dated" sounds are still good as the waveforms can still be combined in unique ways. The JD-800 has over 121,000,000 combinations of waveforms alone, not including the variations the LFO, TVA, TVF, and effects provide; that's why new JD-800 sounds are still being made to this day. Presents can be "dated", but synths can't; to do so downgrades the synth from it place as a musical instrument. There's much more to sound design than high quality samples and effect capabilities.
I bought my Motif 6 in 2004, and it still works perfectly, what I never expected...! In my opinion the sound and the effect section are still pretty good today. Years ago I had different PLG-Boards like DX or AN, but I wasn't really happy with it, so I sold them... What I REALLY like is: 1. The keyboard! I (!) never played a better one, as if it was made for me... 2. Nearly each single parameter, even the effects, can be modulated, at 6 destinations (wheels, pedals, aftertouch). 3. The sequencer. Not perfect, but it does a good job, with a really easy workflow... 4. More or less built like a tank. Falling down the stairs (in a plastic case) didn't leave any issues. Dust, liquids, nicotin...? Turn it upside down, open it, vacuum cleaner, glass cleaner, that's it... The only thing I'm not in love with, is the storage on smart media card. 20yrs ago maybe state-of-the-art, but it's slow, the cards are rare and expensive today, and they are subscebtible, so You better backup Your content on a computer.. But anyway, I don't wanna miss my Motif, it is not one for all, but it is all in one, and it is enough for maybe 80 or 90% of what I do. Would I buy it again for 800 $...? Maybe, if it's a motif 7 or 8, and if it's in a good condition like mine. It's always difficult to recommend old instruments, You have to play it, to touch it, and You have to listen to the sound. And if it satisfies You, buy it...
I picked up a Motif xs 6 about 3 years ago for my home studio. I think I got it for great used price of $900! I recognize a lot of sounds on records to be motif sounds! I think the motif is as iconic as the Yamaha DX7!
I bought the original Motif 8 and still use it today in the home studio; too heavy for lugging to gigs. What I found is that it's more of a synth than what is lead to believe. Like the JD 800, you get 4 elements (JD 800 tones) per patch; each with their own waveform, LFO, filter type, pitch, filter, and amp envelopes ,and a minimal but effective mod matrix. Yes there are menus to work through but I've learned through time and patience that sound creation on this not too far different from your common subtractive synth. Presets are great but understanding and creating personal patches is what I love doing and this board does it nicely with added effort.
I've always wanted one back in the day but unable to afford it. Today, I picked up an excellent Motif 8 that was used in church. A lot to learn and the sounds are amazing. My only problem I could not get the PRE1 to work. The best part $300
It's nice you picked some interesting sounds which still are good to this day. There are some things you forgot to mention: This and the ES were the ones which you could equip with these PLG Cards. You could have a concert Grand, but also DX, AN and even VL and so virtual acoustics. Combined that's a lot of synthesis option. It then definitely is more than a rompler. They skipped that with the XS--Line. Second thing is what gives the Motif the name and thats all these arpeggiation tricks. It somehow belongs to the synth playing just like Karma for the Kronos so that should be mentioned.
Good to see you do a video on this synth. I have a Motif ES6 and a CS6X and to play them both is a blast. very inspiring. Even though I own many newer synths, I effortlessly notice a use for these in the mix of my projects.
I have had a MODX+ and now switched to the MOTIF XS. For me, the natural sounds are sounding more complete on the MOTIF. Strings, Brass, Acoustic Guitars, Piano…that’s amazing. The sequencer is a feature I miss on the MODX. That doesn’t mean the MODX sounds bad, it is just it sounds a bit thinner. And the keybed on the MOTIF Is better than the MODX. The MODX also has some great features which are missing on the MOTIF, the FM sounds or the super knob. But I am totally satisfied with the MOTIF.
I had the MODX and sold it because I wasn’t really feeling the sound. I want to get a motif but hesitant because of the prices. I really wish the companies kept making “do-it-all” workstations like this the market is really wide open for machines like this.
Having a Motif XS8 and a Motif Classic8, the biggest changes were Pros 1) the addition of 7 (8 total) effect sections 2) 4 channel arpeggiators on performance 3) Excellent compressors and effects Cons 1) XS is slow 2) No PLG 3) No magical power grand ! Every time I was using the original, in song / performance mode, I always head the hesitation which single sound I should use with effects and the rest, samples only. But, it sounded and till today sounds great. Neverthless, power grand is absolutely expressive and missing from your excellent presentation.
Years ago I borrowed the mo6 (cut down version of the motif es series) and enjoy the Yamaha sounds. I have a Korg Kronos which sounds great, but some of the Yamaha sounds I prefer. I bought a MX49 last week and really happy with it. It fills in the gaps that the Kronos couldn’t.
Actually the Motif is still around as the Yamaha Montage. Even though they changed the name, the Montage is basically a Motif with added FM-synthesis. The AWM2-engine and basic way of working it is still the same.
yes it is, but there is a but. Motif is a full-fledged workstation, but MONTag is still just a synthesizer, since it does not have a full-fledged sequencer
@woody forrest When did it appear? Montagе does not have a full-fledged sequencer. A full-fledged sequencer is a DAW-like sequencer of the same cubase, Motif is good for them, Montege is not. MONTAGE only has a simple Performance Recorder sequencer. The editing function is not provided. So do not write nonsense if you have not dealt with these tools
I still have a Motif ES6 that I bought new in 2004. I have since purchased a handful of other keyboards/synths/workstations and still own a Korg Kronos 2 61, Korg Krome 61, Korg SV-1 88, and Arturia's Keylab 61 Mk II MIDI controller with their Vintage Collection 9 and other software offerings. I believe that the Motif ES is the same as the original Motif, but with more memory / polyphony (the "ES" stands for expanded system). The Motif sound engines were updated with each successive model ... the XS then the XF. Then, you get into the Montage and its little brother the MODX+. Starting with the XS, Yamaha began including 8 fader sliders instead of the 4 found on the original Motif and ES. I suppose this is always a "personal preference" matter, but again I still like the sound of the Motif ES, otherwise I would've sold it. It comes with a built-in sampler and it's fairly easy to use its pattern feature to create songs within it for playback and live gigs. I also think that the newer Yamahas don't sound quite as rich or fat/full as the earlier models, like the original and ES. I'll have to have a look to see if you updated this review by comparing the original Motif to newer versions of it. Thanks for this video.
I have the original S90 since 2002 with the DX7, analog and vocoder cards. Yes… that was very expensive at that time. I chose the S90 over the Motif for its keybed, piano sounds and overall vintage design. Coming from Roland D50, U220 and JV80, it took me years to learn how to use it. I recommend an old Windows PC to drive the softwares to program it. It still sounds great today if you take the time to use it. That’s not a demo synth where you quickly arrange and tune. The Motif has a sequencer, but not the original S90. That makes it probably the last highend synthesizer before the area of workstations and arrangers.
I've never owned a Motif, but I do own an MX61, which as I understand is based on the Motif XS soundset. For me it's a great go-to board for bread and butter stuff, and very easy to sequence with when you connect it to Cubase.
Yes, this is the youngest model from the line, but the difference is very huge. In Motif xs and xf, each timbre consists of 8 components that can be adjusted or removed, even in real time, and younger models have a much smaller range of timbre components, this also applies to early motif models, for example, this one has 4 elements on the video to timbre. I have these two xs,xf) motifs in my studio and almost 40 gigabytes of libraries for them. Therefore, the same timbres will never sound as good on lower models.
I still have a motif8 I got new in the early 2000's. I had a "massive" 1-gig SCSI hard drive hooked up to it for sample storage. Maxed out the sample memory as well (I think it goes to 32MB?). I would use cool-edit on my PC and transfer samples via CF card. It was a fun toy.
if you can find one for $500-600 that hasn't been used to death with all the paint worn off, then yes. workstations from the 2000s-2010s are a steal right now. they offer a metric shit ton of features and a range of sounds you can't really find in any other type of instrument and you can buy them dirt cheap because people are obsessed with paying stupid money for keyboards from the 70s and early 80s.
I have an MO8 that I got used a couple years ago for a great price. Yeah, the polyphony is sparce, but like all mediums, constraints can benefit creativity. The Bread n Butter sounds (Rhodes, Whirlies, B3s, horns and Pianos) are still good enough for live playing, although Piano modelling had come a long way. What I like best is the key action and the ease of pattern creation. What I like least is the weight and bulkiness. It's not my gigging instrument, but as for having friends over to play stuff, it's perfect!
Yamaha Motif was a revolution in itself when it was released, never had people seen so much power in one package, easy sequencing, sampling with editing, and a ton of powerful sounds - I wanted one for the longest time, but as time went past the last 10+ years the prices weren't going down. People demanded up to 1800$ for a later model Motif just 1-2 years ago, and many people in the various music forums swear by these and would NEVER change for the later models like Yamaha ModX or Montage. In fact - Motif owners really dislike when Motif gets compared with the Montage and think they are nothing alike. Well - they are, except you can't direct sample with the ModX and Montage, other than that you have ALL the Motif sounds in them, but as Zack says - with various tonal charms and variations to them depending on the hardware from that era. And to answer the actual question - the answer is no. I paid 1700$ for a mint condition (barely used) Yamaha Montage about 2 years ago, so I'd never pay even 1000$ for a Motif, it's charming, it's got lots of personality, it's still a competent Music Workstation and YMMV... but I would not, for the sampling part I have the Akai MPC Key 61, and for the Sound Scaping part I have the Montage.
These are nonsense that only those who have never used motif and montege can say, I have the last two models of motif and I can say that Montag is essentially the same motif, it even has external control too. but Montag is not a full-fledged motif, just like motif is a defective montag. That is, motif is a full-fledged workstation, when montage is a synthesizer, since it does not have a full-fledged sequencer, but there is a second fm engine.
I played the original Motif upon its release and was underwhelmed to be honest. The Motif ES, released in 2003 was IMHO a huge step up with vastly improved megavoiced acoustic and electric guitar and bass sounds amongst others. Up to 8 dual fx per part in sequence and multi mode, much more sampling ram, not to mention double the polyphony with 128 voices. It certainly left my much loved Korg Triton Classic for dead in so many ways with the notable exception of Korg's vastly superior touchscreen user interface.
I would argue that the Triton was the inspiration for an instrument like this, not only that, when the ES was released, the Triton was still selling like hotcakes and would show no signs of slowing down for several more years to come
Motif Classic have some sounds which are missing in latter models, anyway I guess that maybe more interesting option would be MOTIF-RACK classic. It still have same patches, but 4 dual inserts, 128 polyphony and new filters. Just fun fact, as it came really late (MOTIF-RACK), and ES was already in development, it looks like, that Yamaha really used ES hardware, but only 4 ROM chips instead of 6 are soldered on mainboard. You can also find there not soldered dual DIMM RAM sockets. Also as somebody mentioned huge plus of these (classic/ ES) is possibility to have 2 (RACK) or 3 (keyboard) PLG cards. You can have for example 3 AN PLG cards, with 3 parts by 5 voices polyphony, or 1 part with 15 voices polyphony (DX logically 3x16, or 1x48). 🙂
I have a Motif 8 Classic from 2001 or 2002. I'll probably never get rid of it. HOWEVER, in your video, I didn't hear any of the pianos, organs, strings. These are the sound I usually rely on. Most of what you demonstrated were kinda the "outer space" or cinematic sounds. There are other keyboards I have played that I like but I use this for home studio use. I just wish I could build on some of these sounds to give them an updated feel and keep the original ones. My two cents.
I agree I am interested in the standard piano sounds and such. And also the sequencer. Does it program drums and everything? I am needing a keyboard workstation to use in the studio. There is one for sale I can get for 500 usd with hardshell Yamaha case included. You think it's a good deal? Please lmk
I owned a classic motif 7 for about 10 years. I never used the sequencer or the sampler, just a live keyboard for playing in bar bands. I didn’t like the piano as I just couldn’t get it to fit in with the band. I used a little Roland module for the piano. The organ sounds were a game changer for me with the overdrive, chorus, vibrato, samples and leslie sim. Electric piano, synth, horns, guitars etc. were all very useful. I sold it for two reasons: 40lbs and crappy piano (for my use). I tried a Jupiter 50 for a bit but I missed the Organ Leslie and got an MOFX. Great piano and organ plus a bunch of new/better sounds (16lbs). My old Motif Classic is still in use and the new owner loves the sounds and hates the 40lbs (almost 60lbs in the case). I’m picking up a new MODX7 next week. Same sounds (all of the Motif stuff), some new sounds, 76 keys, SSS (seamless sound switching), FM, touch screen UI, 16 lbs. It still has a terribly convoluted architecture but it’s the devil I know.
I learned synthesis on an EX5 and then my university "upgraded" to the Motif 8. It was really hard to get into, it makes some cool sounds but compared to the EX5 it's not great for sound design.
I once picked up the 61 key version of this instrument off eBay, and at the time I did not like it. at the time, I did not like how it sounded, so I solded it after fixing it up a little. Now, listening to this and other videos showcaseing the sounds, I realized how mutch I miss the sounds this really does sound good. also the 61 key version of this keyboard is still really heavy to carry around, and that was another reason I sold it.
Many of Halion Sonic's sounds and waveforms came from various Yamaha Motifs although some of the stuff like the Super Articulation saxophones originated in Tyros 2 ( I have never understood why Yamaha put more emphasis on realism in their arranger keyboards than in products like Motif and Montage ). Personally if I wanted a Motif I would get one of the 2 sound module versions. The acoustic instruments in various Motifs are still usable by today's standards but I would steer clear away from the MM series.
@@Niko-ds6wi Bear in mind I made this comment over a year ago when I was about to blow 2k on a used Tyros 5 but fortunately it didn't happen. I used to be of the opinion that "arranger keyboards like Tyros are not just for one man bands" but that is exactly who arrangers are aimed at. I think the Halion Sonic 3 and Halion 4 factory libraries are based largely on Motif XS and Motif XF samples so I was barking up the wrong tree nearly buying a used Tyros 4 or Tyros 5. I don't know why in this demo this guy only demonstrated the synth sounds and didn't demonstrate any of the acoustic instruments like pianos and saxophones.
Nice to see and hear the motif tribal ancestors. I have had few of these keyboards in many years. First the ES7 and nowadays in newer time the XF7. And it's clearly to hear and feel how the development have taken place to the newer motif keyboards. Therefore, as it's said, go after the newest motif generations as they have the highest value on both performance as wall as capacity.
This comment has been generated before watching the video. One thing to say about Motif Classic. It was Kurzwiel Killer. Price wise..and perhaps a good workstation when compared to Korg and Roland’s offerings at the time. But also a cash cow for Yamaha, and they ran with this platform for a long time. Now I’m going to listen to Zach to hear what his take is.
Doesn't sound dated at all. It does what it does, but it may not do all you want it to do. The keyboard on mine shows no signs of lack of responsiveness, sticking keys or anything. Better than many plugin synths. Built like a tank. Quite a keyboard.
No mention of the PLG boards, which offered more additional types of synthesis than the Montage/MODX. The Montage/MODX is more like the Motif than the SY77/99, since you can load any Motif sounds into it and no SY sounds.
I think the comparison between SY77 and MoDX is because the SY77 adds FM to AWM2. Motif is a step backwards from the all-in-one EX5 in that it only includes AWM2; the PLG boards are great though because you can customize your synth for the sounds you prefer.
I em a mo6 user witch is the lite version on the motif es. For my the most important thing in a workstation is the amount of sounds becose I em not that king of person that instal patches. I like the motif for his built in technology and the mo6 still fells like new. So if you are like my check the motif line up.
If you do electronic music, you may check a video on youtube called "JayB's Sound Set for Yamaha Motif ES [Trance, House, Dubstep]". This guy crafted a custom modern-sounding library which you can load in your MO6
@@audiolego I think the XF did not come in Rack you can look at the XS a buddy bought one a few weeks ago and it’s awesome, I really like the XF because it’s the last labeled Yamaha Motif and honestly it’s the last piece of gear I need‼️‼️
See now what y’all don’t know is that particular keyboard became a standard staple for Gospel music given the fact that it had one particular piano sound, that being the “Power Grand”.
Still very usable when it comes to synth sounds. Pianos, organs, acoustic instruments? Yes, 80's/90's and very dated. But the synthetic sounds are much better in these older models than they are now and still very usable. These have the character. If you find these for 300-400€, go for it, especially if it is rack format.
On the Yamaha Motof ES and XS the quality of the acoustic instruments is an improvement as many of them are based on the same Super Articulation 1 instrument samples found in Yamaha Tyros 2 and Tyros 3. I have many of those same samples in Halion 7 as part of the Halion Factory library and in my opinion those sounds are still usable and some of the bass sounds and even acoustic guitars still sound realistic especially with the fret slides and strumming sounds ( based on the same samples as the Mega Voice technology introduced in Tyros 1 ). In fact some of the later generation Motif acoustic instruments are better than the Kontakt Factory Library but I personally like the fact the acoustic instruments sound slightly digitized. But I agree those 90s and 2000s romplers have great synth pad type sounds.
It’s April 2023 as I leave my comment. About 20 years ago, I was at the home of an old friend and wound up recording what began as a demo but would ultimately make its way onto my solo debut, *Eric Benjamin Gordon.* I played all the instruments on the album and did all the singing. For this song, I played electric & bass guitars and my friend’s Motif. He provided the drum loop and a background vocal (the only input I’ve had from any outsider on all the tracks I’ve recorded up to now). ua-cam.com/video/IlzzWt3_UmI/v-deo.html One of my favorite things about that Motif was something that is missing from my main synthesizer, an S90XS. The original Motif included an identical electric grand piano sound to what Roland put in the RD-1000 digital piano and its MIDI module counterpart. When Yamaha was devising the XS edition of the Motif and S90 line, I suspect that they created a new sample set called directly from the CP piano line. As much fun as I’ve had playing those electric grand piano patches from the S90XS, there’s the odd moment when I prefer the sound of the earlier semblance. Is that so the more recent patches are too real. I would consider getting an original Motif or S90, only I don’t think that’s necessary. In addition to the S90XS, I also own another Yamaha device, the DTX Multi 12 which includes a vast Motif sound set. If all anybody was after was the sounds, that would make a far better option than trying to spring for one of the keyboard workstations.
Bought my Motif from Mars Music as it was going out of business in 2002. Sold that to get a Motif ES...later, solfd that to get a Motif XF (Yes, i skipped the Motif XS). Still have the XF and have since bought a Montage. ALways been a fan of the Yamaha sounds and operating system.
I bought a used Motif 7 for around $500. The Acoustic instrument sounds are great, including: pianos, basses, strings, brass, and woodwinds. They expanded upon Korg’s use of the arpeggiator for drum patterns to use arps for guitars, pads, etc. Including SCSI2 must have been important back in the day, since the EX5 has a SCSI v1 bug which limits data to 1/10 the normal speed of SCSI. However I have yet to try out the SCSI port. I’m not sure I’ll use the sequencer since I prefer Logic & Cubase. I have purchased additional patches but am holding off on the PLG-150 expansion boards which are overpriced; remember, they’re actual synthesizer boards which provide ADDITIONAL voices to the internal 64 voices.
I began 2007 with MOTIF XS6 mLAN > now MOTIF XF6W and will keep. Integrated Sampling and Pattern/Song Sequencer is a staple to have in studio. Its a go to instrument regardless of what may be better. #HHNET #NASAV_studios
It's ironic that this isn't a "synth" given the standard definition, but can you imagine if you could've gotten these sounds from a Juno 6 or Poly 6, which are considered "synths"? Plus, with the ES you could add plg boards.
ROMplers are synthesizers. Analog purists are idiots for trashing sample + synthesis as a legitimate method of synthesizing sounds. The PolySix and Juno-6 are so very limited in the palette of sounds they’re capable of producing.
" Is It Worth It?" Simply put, No. Not unless you need the sequencer or got an incredible deal on a used one and your budget doesn't allow for the purchase of the newer Yamaha's. The lineage of the MOTIF did not end with the MOTIF XF or MX keyboards. I think your slightly misinformed on the heritage of the Montage & MODX. The MOTIF continues today in the Montage & MODX. Except...the sequencer. The Montage is not based on the SY99 or SY77. It's based on the MOTIF XF with additional features, plus a powerful FM-X engine. Unlike how Korg operates from one model to the next, since the original MOTIF, Yamaha's flagships have remained compatible since the original 2001 MOTIF. You can directly load sounds from the MOTIF XS & XF into the Montage and MODX, and many great sound collections exist. Sounds from the original MOTIF & MOTIF ES can also be loaded into the Montage & MOTIF, but requires paid computer software tools from John Melas which Yamaha recommends to all users anyway. About the only reason to own the original MOTIF or MOTIF ES is if you needed one of the plug-in circuit boards, but you certainly don't need the FM board. Later MOTIF's & the Montage/MODX aren't compatible with those boards, but most of us don't need them. And Yamaha has gotten away from powerful sequencers, so the Montage & MODX have less powerful sequencers than the MOTIF's, but otherwise are superior. As a Korg user, I kept hearing about the MOTIF's and noticed their success. By the 2nd release, the MOTIF ES, I took better notice and bought a MOTIF ES rack. When the MX came out, I needed a replacement keyboard for my 49 key keyboard I mosted used as a MIDI controller on the side of my live keyboard rig. The MX included all of the sounds I liked from my MOTIF ES, and likely contained all of the sound set but it was a little different and has some XS (3rd gen MOTIF) sounds too. The MX49 is still the smallest keyboard of the MOTIF family. I MIDIed to it with larger keyboards. When the MODX came out, I noticed it's really small form factor, included all of those sounds and fully compatibility with the XS & XF without needing software tools, and many more features. I bought the MODX6 and loved it so much, it eventually replaced my Korg which I now run as a VST instead. " Is It Worth It?" Only if you get one dirt cheap and can't afford a newer model. The MOTIF basically still exists today in the Montage & MODX. With the MODX6, I get a synth half the weight as the 61 key MOTIF's with many more features. It's much easier to use with the touch screen, and includes many additional features. All the sound sets of the MOTIF are there in the MODX and Montage. I don't use sequencers, and that is about the only thing better on the MOTIF's vs getting a Montage, but I prefer the MODX for the weight loss and half the cost and can deal with the cheaper build quality. File compatibility that Yamaha has basically offered for 23 years now I think is one of the best things about Yamaha vs Korg. Starting with the MOTIF ES, a lot of great sound collections were made for the MOTIF series. Those same sound collections originally made for the MOTIF ES I have in my MODX now. Korg can't even remain fully file compatible from the Kronos to the Nautilus, which is exactly the same sound engines. Ridiculous! And at first, they made no attempt to remain at all compatible until users complained, of which they later came out with a conversion tool which still incompatible with a huge portion of them. Chances are when Yamaha replaces the Montage & MODX, their next keyboards will remain compatible with them. As a live performer, it's a major pain I have to try to recreate all my favorite sounds which is a daunting task and I generally end up keeping my old synths because I can't recreate them. This started going from the Korg M1 to when they came out with the 01/W and Wavestation. Largely the same technology, but they couldn't even make either of those keyboards backwards compatible, and seemingly.....just didn't care about that. And this continues today. Yamaha for the past 23 years has had a great solution to this, and also in offering their flagship's in a form factor that is half the weight, and half the price, but yet fully file compatible. With this kind of thinking, Korg will fall further and further behind. Once a great company.
I don't think studios nowadays are going to use any of these workstation keyboards. Today is the era of DAW and plugins. All they need is a MIDI controller with good key action.
I’m a huge Motif guy, I have a Toto tribute band I use the es7 and classic 8, obviously along with main stage and midi controllers but the overall core of my rig is definitely motif. These keyboards are work horses, i’d rather have these out on the gig versus the 4000 and $6000 workstations taking them on the road like the Kronos or the Montage. Obviously if you’re doing studio work then yes you need updated keyboards but if you are a gigging musician there are tons of sounds that you can add to these keyboards via flash and I definitely still think they’re worth the money..
Who remembers the midi timing issues with the original rack version....I can remember the review in Sound on Sound and when I read it I thought that is not good at all. I’ve not used a Motif. The interface looks quite complicated. Perhaps it’s unfair to comment until Ive used one! I hope you get to review the Cs6x.
I stil prefer my silver EX5, particularly how it looks. It's flawed, yes, and don't even think about using it as a workstation. But when it comes to sheer amount of features and general craziness, there's nothing like it.
Motif is a good key board I won't discard this key board the sound is not the same as modx or other yamaha key board. The only problem is heavy. IF YAMAHA could come out with lightweight I will buy again.
You are absolutely wrong and I do not agree with you. Firstly, the Motif Series consists of Motif, Motif ES, Motif XS and Motif XF / Montage- is created on the basis of the MOTIF series Montage today is the Flagship of Yamaha, the Motif is also the Flagship, and the MODX or MOX Series is a series of Budget simplified Series Motif Flagman its budget version is MOX ,The flagship Montage, its budget version is MODX / And not knowing this means that you are not competent and are also playing music. channel. Montage-Today I took everything from Motif and its main engine and even an external panel with its functionality, they just added more timbres, added new functions and an additional engine, while they placed a discounted sequencer, it was a full-fledged one in Motif
This has 3 insert effects, which was pretty good, but the low polyphony, 1 measly 4mb expansion board socket and there were only 4 available. Yamaha must have been concentrating on snowblowers during this period.
I use 76 keys, but I will never have a Motif 7 for three reasons: 1. The 1255mm length is too long, the size-accurate hard case won't fit in the back seat of my car. 2. The 18.1kg weight is too heavy and you have to add the weight of the hard case to that. 3. I can't put a music stand in it.
I still have my Motif 6 ( bought it new)and it still works and sounds great never one problem with this keyboard for studio use.
I bought one in 2002 and still own it. It still works perfectly and sounds great.
I just ordered one, very excited to play it
I replied this on someone else's comment: presets can be dated, synths cannot. Considering that the bones of the Motif are still alive in 2024, it just goes to show you that great sound designing can bring fresh life into any synth. If all you chase are prepackaged presets, you're better off just doing the laptop and VST move.
I'll never understand when people say that certain sounds are "outdated". The harpsichord has been around for centuries, yet, millions of people go gaga over music from the baroque period; specially J.S. Bach, Vivaldi and Handel.
Point well taken, Joseph. And, why did Yamaha introduce the MODX featuring the FM synthesis of their DX7, and why does Korg continue to offer sounds from their M1 and Triton workstations, and why does Roland continue to offer the sounds from their Jupiter and Juno lines of synths and their TR drum machines, and how about all of the vintage analog synths and keyboards that everyone can't get enough of, i.e., Sequential Circuits, Mood, Arp, Oberheim, Clavinet, Rhodes, Wurlitzer, Hammond B3, etc.?
Well, acoustic instruments can't really be compared to Synthesizers and Samplers/Romplers. The fidelity, dynamic and harmonics are really beyond anything that was technically possible to recreate convincingly until only a few years ago. Therefore an "outdated" sound (a facsimile of an acoustic instrument) refers to the technology that was used to recreate it, bearing the quality and characteristics of that technology.
They sound dated because they are dated. Things like a harpsichord are not a dynamic instrument, they only have one velocity, and thus are relatively simple to sample accurately. But things like pianos, guitars, etc, require much more than just press something and it works. Sampling technologies have really ramped up over the past 10 years, massive jumps in quality and realism have been seen and heard this decade and Kontakt sample libraries are getting crazy good to the point they don't sound "digital." Bit rates, coding, velocity layers,and the way things are sampled have gotten substantially better since the ES8. And while yes, there are people who still chase down the classic analog synth of years past, this isn't analog, and this sounds digital and of its early 2000s digital synth era. VSTs, as well as modern digital synth, have gotten really close to sounding like the real analog synths, and VSTs like Serum show the massive difference in what modern vs 2003 sounds like. So yes, some sounds do sound "dated," because they lack the depth and accuracy of what we get in the modern stuff.
I bought a Motif ES rack... very usable sounds. I run that with a QY700 sequencer (rubbish sounds) but great flexibility put together with a controller MIDI keyboard.
@@K1TTENM1TTEN I have to disagree with you take as it only applies to people who just simply play with prepackaged presets. For people who love sound design, "dated" sounds are still good as the waveforms can still be combined in unique ways. The JD-800 has over 121,000,000 combinations of waveforms alone, not including the variations the LFO, TVA, TVF, and effects provide; that's why new JD-800 sounds are still being made to this day.
Presents can be "dated", but synths can't; to do so downgrades the synth from it place as a musical instrument. There's much more to sound design than high quality samples and effect capabilities.
I have the Motif ES8. Only keyboard I have or use. I'm the original owner. LOVE IT!
I bought my Motif 6 in 2004, and it still works perfectly, what I never expected...! In my opinion the sound and the effect section are still pretty good today. Years ago I had different PLG-Boards like DX or AN, but I wasn't really happy with it, so I sold them...
What I REALLY like is:
1. The keyboard! I (!) never played a better one, as if it was made for me...
2. Nearly each single parameter, even the effects, can be modulated, at 6 destinations (wheels, pedals, aftertouch).
3. The sequencer. Not perfect, but it does a good job, with a really easy workflow...
4. More or less built like a tank. Falling down the stairs (in a plastic case) didn't leave any issues. Dust, liquids, nicotin...? Turn it upside down, open it, vacuum cleaner, glass cleaner, that's it...
The only thing I'm not in love with, is the storage on smart media card. 20yrs ago maybe state-of-the-art, but it's slow, the cards are rare and expensive today, and they are subscebtible, so You better backup Your content on a computer..
But anyway, I don't wanna miss my Motif, it is not one for all, but it is all in one, and it is enough for maybe 80 or 90% of what I do.
Would I buy it again for 800 $...? Maybe, if it's a motif 7 or 8, and if it's in a good condition like mine.
It's always difficult to recommend old instruments, You have to play it, to touch it, and You have to listen to the sound. And if it satisfies You, buy it...
I picked up a Motif xs 6 about 3 years ago for my home studio. I think I got it for great used price of $900! I recognize a lot of sounds on records to be motif sounds! I think the motif is as iconic as the Yamaha DX7!
This keyboard got me inspired to use Yamaha!
I bought the original Motif 8 and still use it today in the home studio; too heavy for lugging to gigs. What I found is that it's more of a synth than what is lead to believe. Like the JD 800, you get 4 elements (JD 800 tones) per patch; each with their own waveform, LFO, filter type, pitch, filter, and amp envelopes ,and a minimal but effective mod matrix. Yes there are menus to work through but I've learned through time and patience that sound creation on this not too far different from your common subtractive synth. Presets are great but understanding and creating personal patches is what I love doing and this board does it nicely with added effort.
I have a Motif 6 and a Korg T3. I like the piano sounds on the Motif, but the pads and atmospheric sounds on the T3 are amazing.
I just bought a motif 6 for $250, sounds are great 👍
It’s totally worth it from the aspect of originality and inspiration.
I've always wanted one back in the day but unable to afford it. Today, I picked up an excellent Motif 8 that was used in church. A lot to learn and the sounds are amazing. My only problem I could not get the PRE1 to work. The best part $300
Thank you for covering the yamaha motif, i still have my motif 6 and GeneralMusic Gem equinox from that specific era, love those beautiful boards
It's nice you picked some interesting sounds which still are good to this day. There are some things you forgot to mention: This and the ES were the ones which you could equip with these PLG Cards. You could have a concert Grand, but also DX, AN and even VL and so virtual acoustics. Combined that's a lot of synthesis option. It then definitely is more than a rompler. They skipped that with the XS--Line. Second thing is what gives the Motif the name and thats all these arpeggiation tricks. It somehow belongs to the synth playing just like Karma for the Kronos so that should be mentioned.
Oh yes the PLG boards were what really added something special to this synth! I had the PLG AN and DX :)
Good to see you do a video on this synth. I have a Motif ES6 and a CS6X and to play them both is a blast. very inspiring. Even though I own many newer synths, I effortlessly notice a use for these in the mix of my projects.
Motif Classic 2001 Aí se inicia uma lenda que até hoje se faz presente nos palcos. Parabéns pelo vídeo.
🇧🇷🎹
I have had a MODX+ and now switched to the MOTIF XS. For me, the natural sounds are sounding more complete on the MOTIF. Strings, Brass, Acoustic Guitars, Piano…that’s amazing. The sequencer is a feature I miss on the MODX. That doesn’t mean the MODX sounds bad, it is just it sounds a bit thinner. And the keybed on the MOTIF Is better than the MODX. The MODX also has some great features which are missing on the MOTIF, the FM sounds or the super knob. But I am totally satisfied with the MOTIF.
I had the MODX and sold it because I wasn’t really feeling the sound. I want to get a motif but hesitant because of the prices. I really wish the companies kept making “do-it-all” workstations like this the market is really wide open for machines like this.
My church still uses tjis Motif. That’s why I’m here.
Having a Motif XS8 and a Motif Classic8, the biggest changes were
Pros
1) the addition of 7 (8 total) effect sections
2) 4 channel arpeggiators on performance
3) Excellent compressors and effects
Cons
1) XS is slow
2) No PLG
3) No magical power grand !
Every time I was using the original, in song / performance mode, I always head the hesitation which single sound I should use with effects and the rest, samples only. But, it sounded and till today sounds great.
Neverthless, power grand is absolutely expressive and missing from your excellent presentation.
Motif is a fantastic unit, still need to get one to complete my rompler trifecta
Years ago I borrowed the mo6 (cut down version of the motif es series) and enjoy the Yamaha sounds.
I have a Korg Kronos which sounds great, but some of the Yamaha sounds I prefer. I bought a MX49 last week and really happy with it. It fills in the gaps that the Kronos couldn’t.
Actually the Motif is still around as the Yamaha Montage. Even though they changed the name, the Montage is basically a Motif with added FM-synthesis. The AWM2-engine and basic way of working it is still the same.
Thank you,I have been saying this since it debut.
yes it is, but there is a but. Motif is a full-fledged workstation, but MONTag is still just a synthesizer, since it does not have a full-fledged sequencer
@woody forrest When did it appear? Montagе does not have a full-fledged sequencer.
A full-fledged sequencer is a DAW-like sequencer of the same cubase, Motif is good for them, Montege is not.
MONTAGE only has a simple Performance Recorder sequencer. The editing function is not provided.
So do not write nonsense if you have not dealt with these tools
I still have a Motif ES6 that I bought new in 2004. I have since purchased a handful of other keyboards/synths/workstations and still own a Korg Kronos 2 61, Korg Krome 61, Korg SV-1 88, and Arturia's Keylab 61 Mk II MIDI controller with their Vintage Collection 9 and other software offerings.
I believe that the Motif ES is the same as the original Motif, but with more memory / polyphony (the "ES" stands for expanded system). The Motif sound engines were updated with each successive model ... the XS then the XF. Then, you get into the Montage and its little brother the MODX+. Starting with the XS, Yamaha began including 8 fader sliders instead of the 4 found on the original Motif and ES.
I suppose this is always a "personal preference" matter, but again I still like the sound of the Motif ES, otherwise I would've sold it. It comes with a built-in sampler and it's fairly easy to use its pattern feature to create songs within it for playback and live gigs. I also think that the newer Yamahas don't sound quite as rich or fat/full as the earlier models, like the original and ES.
I'll have to have a look to see if you updated this review by comparing the original Motif to newer versions of it. Thanks for this video.
I'm thinking about finding the rack mount version of this unit. the sounds are so good.
I have the original S90 since 2002 with the DX7, analog and vocoder cards. Yes… that was very expensive at that time. I chose the S90 over the Motif for its keybed, piano sounds and overall vintage design. Coming from Roland D50, U220 and JV80, it took me years to learn how to use it. I recommend an old Windows PC to drive the softwares to program it. It still sounds great today if you take the time to use it. That’s not a demo synth where you quickly arrange and tune. The Motif has a sequencer, but not the original S90. That makes it probably the last highend synthesizer before the area of workstations and arrangers.
I've never owned a Motif, but I do own an MX61, which as I understand is based on the Motif XS soundset. For me it's a great go-to board for bread and butter stuff, and very easy to sequence with when you connect it to Cubase.
Yes, this is the youngest model from the line, but the difference is very huge. In Motif xs and xf, each timbre consists of 8 components that can be adjusted or removed, even in real time, and younger models have a much smaller range of timbre components, this also applies to early motif models, for example, this one has 4 elements on the video to timbre. I have these two xs,xf) motifs in my studio and almost 40 gigabytes of libraries for them.
Therefore, the same timbres will never sound as good on lower models.
I still have a motif8 I got new in the early 2000's. I had a "massive" 1-gig SCSI hard drive hooked up to it for sample storage. Maxed out the sample memory as well (I think it goes to 32MB?). I would use cool-edit on my PC and transfer samples via CF card. It was a fun toy.
if you can find one for $500-600 that hasn't been used to death with all the paint worn off, then yes. workstations from the 2000s-2010s are a steal right now. they offer a metric shit ton of features and a range of sounds you can't really find in any other type of instrument and you can buy them dirt cheap because people are obsessed with paying stupid money for keyboards from the 70s and early 80s.
I have an MO8 that I got used a couple years ago for a great price.
Yeah, the polyphony is sparce, but like all mediums, constraints can benefit creativity.
The Bread n Butter sounds (Rhodes, Whirlies, B3s, horns and Pianos) are still good enough for live playing, although Piano modelling had come a long way.
What I like best is the key action and the ease of pattern creation.
What I like least is the weight and bulkiness.
It's not my gigging instrument, but
as for having friends over to play stuff, it's perfect!
Yamaha Motif was a revolution in itself when it was released, never had people seen so much power in one package, easy sequencing, sampling with editing, and a ton of powerful sounds - I wanted one for the longest time, but as time went past the last 10+ years the prices weren't going down. People demanded up to 1800$ for a later model Motif just 1-2 years ago, and many people in the various music forums swear by these and would NEVER change for the later models like Yamaha ModX or Montage. In fact - Motif owners really dislike when Motif gets compared with the Montage and think they are nothing alike. Well - they are, except you can't direct sample with the ModX and Montage, other than that you have ALL the Motif sounds in them, but as Zack says - with various tonal charms and variations to them depending on the hardware from that era.
And to answer the actual question - the answer is no. I paid 1700$ for a mint condition (barely used) Yamaha Montage about 2 years ago, so I'd never pay even 1000$ for a Motif, it's charming, it's got lots of personality, it's still a competent Music Workstation and YMMV... but I would not, for the sampling part I have the Akai MPC Key 61, and for the Sound Scaping part I have the Montage.
The motif is like a jack of all trades, but master of none. still a fun toy.
These are nonsense that only those who have never used motif and montege can say, I have the last two models of motif and I can say that Montag is essentially the same motif, it even has external control too. but Montag is not a full-fledged motif, just like motif is a defective montag. That is, motif is a full-fledged workstation, when montage is a synthesizer, since it does not have a full-fledged sequencer, but there is a second fm engine.
I played the original Motif upon its release and was underwhelmed to be honest. The Motif ES, released in 2003 was IMHO a huge step up with vastly improved megavoiced acoustic and electric guitar and bass sounds amongst others. Up to 8 dual fx per part in sequence and multi mode, much more sampling ram, not to mention double the polyphony with 128 voices. It certainly left my much loved Korg Triton Classic for dead in so many ways with the notable exception of Korg's vastly superior touchscreen user interface.
I would argue that the Triton was the inspiration for an instrument like this, not only that, when the ES was released, the Triton was still selling like hotcakes and would show no signs of slowing down for several more years to come
Motif Classic have some sounds which are missing in latter models, anyway I guess that maybe more interesting option would be MOTIF-RACK classic. It still have same patches, but 4 dual inserts, 128 polyphony and new filters. Just fun fact, as it came really late (MOTIF-RACK), and ES was already in development, it looks like, that Yamaha really used ES hardware, but only 4 ROM chips instead of 6 are soldered on mainboard. You can also find there not soldered dual DIMM RAM sockets. Also as somebody mentioned huge plus of these (classic/ ES) is possibility to have 2 (RACK) or 3 (keyboard) PLG cards. You can have for example 3 AN PLG cards, with 3 parts by 5 voices polyphony, or 1 part with 15 voices polyphony (DX logically 3x16, or 1x48). 🙂
I have a Motif 8 Classic from 2001 or 2002. I'll probably never get rid of it. HOWEVER, in your video, I didn't hear any of the pianos, organs, strings. These are the sound I usually rely on. Most of what you demonstrated were kinda the "outer space" or cinematic sounds. There are other keyboards I have played that I like but I use this for home studio use. I just wish I could build on some of these sounds to give them an updated feel and keep the original ones. My two cents.
I agree I am interested in the standard piano sounds and such. And also the sequencer. Does it program drums and everything? I am needing a keyboard workstation to use in the studio. There is one for sale I can get for 500 usd with hardshell Yamaha case included. You think it's a good deal? Please lmk
One of the synths I bearly never put on a shelf. combining with a Kurzweil PC 88 set as masterkeyboard. you can get huge sounds
Get in it and make your own sounds. Its worth it.
I owned a classic motif 7 for about 10 years. I never used the sequencer or the sampler, just a live keyboard for playing in bar bands. I didn’t like the piano as I just couldn’t get it to fit in with the band. I used a little Roland module for the piano. The organ sounds were a game changer for me with the overdrive, chorus, vibrato, samples and leslie sim. Electric piano, synth, horns, guitars etc. were all very useful. I sold it for two reasons: 40lbs and crappy piano (for my use). I tried a Jupiter 50 for a bit but I missed the Organ Leslie and got an MOFX. Great piano and organ plus a bunch of new/better sounds (16lbs). My old Motif Classic is still in use and the new owner loves the sounds and hates the 40lbs (almost 60lbs in the case). I’m picking up a new MODX7 next week. Same sounds (all of the Motif stuff), some new sounds, 76 keys, SSS (seamless sound switching), FM, touch screen UI, 16 lbs. It still has a terribly convoluted architecture but it’s the devil I know.
I learned synthesis on an EX5 and then my university "upgraded" to the Motif 8. It was really hard to get into, it makes some cool sounds but compared to the EX5 it's not great for sound design.
Sup man , my morning wake up video. I’m such a geek
I once picked up the 61 key version of this instrument off eBay, and at the time I did not like it. at the time, I did not like how it sounded, so I solded it after fixing it up a little. Now, listening to this and other videos showcaseing the sounds, I realized how mutch I miss the sounds this really does sound good. also the 61 key version of this keyboard is still really heavy to carry around, and that was another reason I sold it.
Many of Halion Sonic's sounds and waveforms came from various Yamaha Motifs although some of the stuff like the Super Articulation saxophones originated in Tyros 2
( I have never understood why Yamaha put more emphasis on realism in their arranger keyboards than in products like Motif and Montage ). Personally if I wanted a Motif
I would get one of the 2 sound module versions. The acoustic instruments in various Motifs are still usable by today's standards but I would steer clear away from the
MM series.
You are wrong, it is in Motif that the realism of timbres is much higher than in arrangement stations like Tyros
@@Niko-ds6wi Bear in mind I made this comment over a year ago when I was about to blow 2k on a used Tyros 5 but fortunately it didn't happen.
I used to be of the opinion that "arranger keyboards like Tyros are not just for one man bands" but that is exactly who arrangers are aimed at. I think
the Halion Sonic 3 and Halion 4 factory libraries are based largely on Motif XS and Motif XF samples so I was barking up the wrong tree nearly buying a
used Tyros 4 or Tyros 5. I don't know why in this demo this guy only demonstrated the synth sounds and didn't demonstrate any of the acoustic instruments
like pianos and saxophones.
Historic board. Motifs are thick man. Heavy sa hell hhaaha. But it sounds so good live
Fun fact: This synth was used for the Wii Shop Channel music!
Nice to see and hear the motif tribal ancestors.
I have had few of these keyboards in many years. First the ES7 and nowadays in newer time the XF7.
And it's clearly to hear and feel how the development have taken place to the newer motif keyboards. Therefore, as it's said, go after the newest motif generations as they have the highest value on both performance as wall as capacity.
Please Do the Korg M3...Karma is really cool.
This comment has been generated before watching the video. One thing to say about Motif Classic. It was Kurzwiel Killer. Price wise..and perhaps a good workstation when compared to Korg and Roland’s offerings at the time. But also a cash cow for Yamaha, and they ran with this platform for a long time.
Now I’m going to listen to Zach to hear what his take is.
Yes and no. Kurzweil is still around, and the K2600 can do much synthesis that a vanilla Motif cannot.
@@doctorsynth1the Kurzweils were super expensive at the time
Doesn't sound dated at all. It does what it does, but it may not do all you want it to do. The keyboard on mine shows no signs of lack of responsiveness, sticking keys or anything. Better than many plugin synths. Built like a tank. Quite a keyboard.
How many people use more than 30% of the capabilities on these rigs anyways? This thing is still a beast 20 years later.
No mention of the PLG boards, which offered more additional types of synthesis than the Montage/MODX. The Montage/MODX is more like the Motif than the SY77/99, since you can load any Motif sounds into it and no SY sounds.
I think the comparison between SY77 and MoDX is because the SY77 adds FM to AWM2. Motif is a step backwards from the all-in-one EX5 in that it only includes AWM2; the PLG boards are great though because you can customize your synth for the sounds you prefer.
I em a mo6 user witch is the lite version on the motif es. For my the most important thing in a workstation is the amount of sounds becose I em not that king of person that instal patches. I like the motif for his built in technology and the mo6 still fells like new. So if you are like my check the motif line up.
If you do electronic music, you may check a video on youtube called "JayB's Sound Set for Yamaha Motif ES [Trance, House, Dubstep]".
This guy crafted a custom modern-sounding library which you can load in your MO6
Has this keyboard been emulated into software? The sounds are amazing
I’m looking into the XF6 since it’s the last Motif branded workstation‼️
I want the rack version of that. It’s either XF rack or Roland Integra 7. I don’t need it but……. I still use my Proteus 1
@@audiolego I think the XF did not come in Rack you can look at the XS a buddy bought one a few weeks ago and it’s awesome, I really like the XF because it’s the last labeled Yamaha Motif and honestly it’s the last piece of gear I need‼️‼️
See now what y’all don’t know is that particular keyboard became a standard staple for Gospel music given the fact that it had one particular piano sound, that being the “Power Grand”.
Yes, it is a vintage keyboard.
I have one in my area for 400 mint! I am considering it, need a master keyboard 😊 (76 version)
Still very usable when it comes to synth sounds. Pianos, organs, acoustic instruments? Yes, 80's/90's and very dated. But the synthetic sounds are much better in these older models than they are now and still very usable. These have the character.
If you find these for 300-400€, go for it, especially if it is rack format.
On the Yamaha Motof ES and XS the quality of the acoustic instruments is an improvement as many of them are based on the
same Super Articulation 1 instrument samples found in Yamaha Tyros 2 and Tyros 3. I have many of those same samples
in Halion 7 as part of the Halion Factory library and in my opinion those sounds are still usable and some of the bass sounds
and even acoustic guitars still sound realistic especially with the fret slides and strumming sounds ( based on the same samples
as the Mega Voice technology introduced in Tyros 1 ). In fact some of the later generation Motif acoustic instruments are better
than the Kontakt Factory Library but I personally like the fact the acoustic instruments sound slightly digitized. But I agree those
90s and 2000s romplers have great synth pad type sounds.
It’s April 2023 as I leave my comment. About 20 years ago, I was at the home of an old friend and wound up recording what began as a demo but would ultimately make its way onto my solo debut, *Eric Benjamin Gordon.* I played all the instruments on the album and did all the singing. For this song, I played electric & bass guitars and my friend’s Motif. He provided the drum loop and a background vocal (the only input I’ve had from any outsider on all the tracks I’ve recorded up to now).
ua-cam.com/video/IlzzWt3_UmI/v-deo.html
One of my favorite things about that Motif was something that is missing from my main synthesizer, an S90XS. The original Motif included an identical electric grand piano sound to what Roland put in the RD-1000 digital piano and its MIDI module counterpart. When Yamaha was devising the XS edition of the Motif and S90 line, I suspect that they created a new sample set called directly from the CP piano line. As much fun as I’ve had playing those electric grand piano patches from the S90XS, there’s the odd moment when I prefer the sound of the earlier semblance. Is that so the more recent patches are too real.
I would consider getting an original Motif or S90, only I don’t think that’s necessary. In addition to the S90XS, I also own another Yamaha device, the DTX Multi 12 which includes a vast Motif sound set. If all anybody was after was the sounds, that would make a far better option than trying to spring for one of the keyboard workstations.
I have a Motif ES6 and it's fan-tas-tic!!!!!!!
Bought my Motif from Mars Music as it was going out of business in 2002. Sold that to get a Motif ES...later, solfd that to get a Motif XF (Yes, i skipped the Motif XS).
Still have the XF and have since bought a Montage.
ALways been a fan of the Yamaha sounds and operating system.
Did they only program the Motif with pads and pad-like arps? Didn't hear any piano, bass, stabs or horns.
I bought a used Motif 7 for around $500. The Acoustic instrument sounds are great, including: pianos, basses, strings, brass, and woodwinds. They expanded upon Korg’s use of the arpeggiator for drum patterns to use arps for guitars, pads, etc. Including SCSI2 must have been important back in the day, since the EX5 has a SCSI v1 bug which limits data to 1/10 the normal speed of SCSI. However I have yet to try out the SCSI port. I’m not sure I’ll use the sequencer since I prefer Logic & Cubase. I have purchased additional patches but am holding off on the PLG-150 expansion boards which are overpriced; remember, they’re actual synthesizer boards which provide ADDITIONAL voices to the internal 64 voices.
I began 2007 with MOTIF XS6 mLAN > now MOTIF XF6W and will keep. Integrated Sampling and Pattern/Song Sequencer is a staple to have in studio. Its a go to instrument regardless of what may be better.
#HHNET #NASAV_studios
It's ironic that this isn't a "synth" given the standard definition, but can you imagine if you could've gotten these sounds from a Juno 6 or Poly 6, which are considered "synths"? Plus, with the ES you could add plg boards.
ROMplers are synthesizers. Analog purists are idiots for trashing sample + synthesis as a legitimate method of synthesizing sounds. The PolySix and Juno-6 are so very limited in the palette of sounds they’re capable of producing.
" Is It Worth It?"
Simply put, No. Not unless you need the sequencer or got an incredible deal on a used one and your budget doesn't allow for the purchase of the newer Yamaha's.
The lineage of the MOTIF did not end with the MOTIF XF or MX keyboards. I think your slightly misinformed on the heritage of the Montage & MODX. The MOTIF continues today in the Montage & MODX. Except...the sequencer. The Montage is not based on the SY99 or SY77. It's based on the MOTIF XF with additional features, plus a powerful FM-X engine.
Unlike how Korg operates from one model to the next, since the original MOTIF, Yamaha's flagships have remained compatible since the original 2001 MOTIF. You can directly load sounds from the MOTIF XS & XF into the Montage and MODX, and many great sound collections exist. Sounds from the original MOTIF & MOTIF ES can also be loaded into the Montage & MOTIF, but requires paid computer software tools from John Melas which Yamaha recommends to all users anyway. About the only reason to own the original MOTIF or MOTIF ES is if you needed one of the plug-in circuit boards, but you certainly don't need the FM board. Later MOTIF's & the Montage/MODX aren't compatible with those boards, but most of us don't need them. And Yamaha has gotten away from powerful sequencers, so the Montage & MODX have less powerful sequencers than the MOTIF's, but otherwise are superior.
As a Korg user, I kept hearing about the MOTIF's and noticed their success. By the 2nd release, the MOTIF ES, I took better notice and bought a MOTIF ES rack. When the MX came out, I needed a replacement keyboard for my 49 key keyboard I mosted used as a MIDI controller on the side of my live keyboard rig. The MX included all of the sounds I liked from my MOTIF ES, and likely contained all of the sound set but it was a little different and has some XS (3rd gen MOTIF) sounds too. The MX49 is still the smallest keyboard of the MOTIF family. I MIDIed to it with larger keyboards. When the MODX came out, I noticed it's really small form factor, included all of those sounds and fully compatibility with the XS & XF without needing software tools, and many more features. I bought the MODX6 and loved it so much, it eventually replaced my Korg which I now run as a VST instead.
" Is It Worth It?" Only if you get one dirt cheap and can't afford a newer model. The MOTIF basically still exists today in the Montage & MODX. With the MODX6, I get a synth half the weight as the 61 key MOTIF's with many more features. It's much easier to use with the touch screen, and includes many additional features. All the sound sets of the MOTIF are there in the MODX and Montage. I don't use sequencers, and that is about the only thing better on the MOTIF's vs getting a Montage, but I prefer the MODX for the weight loss and half the cost and can deal with the cheaper build quality.
File compatibility that Yamaha has basically offered for 23 years now I think is one of the best things about Yamaha vs Korg. Starting with the MOTIF ES, a lot of great sound collections were made for the MOTIF series. Those same sound collections originally made for the MOTIF ES I have in my MODX now. Korg can't even remain fully file compatible from the Kronos to the Nautilus, which is exactly the same sound engines. Ridiculous! And at first, they made no attempt to remain at all compatible until users complained, of which they later came out with a conversion tool which still incompatible with a huge portion of them.
Chances are when Yamaha replaces the Montage & MODX, their next keyboards will remain compatible with them. As a live performer, it's a major pain I have to try to recreate all my favorite sounds which is a daunting task and I generally end up keeping my old synths because I can't recreate them. This started going from the Korg M1 to when they came out with the 01/W and Wavestation. Largely the same technology, but they couldn't even make either of those keyboards backwards compatible, and seemingly.....just didn't care about that. And this continues today. Yamaha for the past 23 years has had a great solution to this, and also in offering their flagship's in a form factor that is half the weight, and half the price, but yet fully file compatible. With this kind of thinking, Korg will fall further and further behind. Once a great company.
Greetings friend. Could you help me how to assemble the Yamaha motif 6 is that I took it apart and I don't know where each plug goes please
I don't think studios nowadays are going to use any of these workstation keyboards. Today is the era of DAW and plugins. All they need is a MIDI controller with good key action.
YES IT IS!
Hi, what is the sound at @13:10-13:30? Thanks
I love the keybed feel of the Motif but the used prices are completely cuckoo caca
I just got a motif 08 for $250.00 when i sold these 20 year ago they were $3648.67 plus tax
Its still usual high Yamaha quality.
I’m a huge Motif guy, I have a Toto tribute band I use the es7 and classic 8, obviously along with main stage and midi controllers but the overall core of my rig is definitely motif. These keyboards are work horses, i’d rather have these out on the gig versus the 4000 and $6000 workstations taking them on the road like the Kronos or the Montage. Obviously if you’re doing studio work then yes you need updated keyboards but if you are a gigging musician there are tons of sounds that you can add to these keyboards via flash and I definitely still think they’re worth the money..
Who remembers the midi timing issues with the original rack version....I can remember the review in Sound on Sound and when I read it I thought that is not good at all. I’ve not used a Motif. The interface looks quite complicated. Perhaps it’s unfair to comment until Ive used one! I hope you get to review the Cs6x.
Not complicated I got it as a kid and still have it..I loved it bc I could make beats without needing other equipment
I upgraded from the Motif Rack to the Motif ES Rack because of the timing bugs
I stil prefer my silver EX5, particularly how it looks. It's flawed, yes, and don't even think about using it as a workstation. But when it comes to sheer amount of features and general craziness, there's nothing like it.
Will from inbetweeners knows his keys
O si tienes un video como lo puedo ensamblar
Motif is a good key board I won't discard this key board the sound is not the same as modx or other yamaha key board. The only problem is heavy. IF YAMAHA could come out with lightweight I will buy again.
What about the XS it doesn't count in your opinion
You are absolutely wrong and I do not agree with you. Firstly, the Motif Series consists of Motif, Motif ES, Motif XS and Motif XF / Montage- is created on the basis of the MOTIF series Montage today is the Flagship of Yamaha, the Motif is also the Flagship, and the MODX or MOX Series is a series of Budget simplified Series Motif Flagman its budget version is MOX ,The flagship Montage, its budget version is MODX / And not knowing this means that you are not competent and are also playing music. channel. Montage-Today I took everything from Motif and its main engine and even an external panel with its functionality, they just added more timbres, added new functions and an additional engine, while they placed a discounted sequencer, it was a full-fledged one in Motif
Motif xs?
This has 3 insert effects, which was pretty good, but the low polyphony, 1 measly 4mb expansion board socket and there were only 4 available. Yamaha must have been concentrating on snowblowers during this period.
Hi, can U please rewrite the script to make some sense in this presentation. Free impro is not always working.
Not anymore it isn't....Though depends on price....
I like the Korg Triton more than this thing!
I use 76 keys, but I will never have a Motif 7 for three reasons:
1. The 1255mm length is too long, the size-accurate hard case won't fit in the back seat of my car.
2. The 18.1kg weight is too heavy and you have to add the weight of the hard case to that.
3. I can't put a music stand in it.
Got a classic 6 and never sell but basically they are just romplers
I've never liked workstations.
so so... JD800 much better
it was never worth it
thia is literally in the junk pile in my local 2nd hand shop i hope your not making revenue on this?
If I lived in the vicinity I would buy it.