I’m pretty well convinced that the Yamaha MODX leak is legitimate.

BTW, I think Yamaha will pronounce the name “MO D X” to reflect a continuation of the MO heritage and to emphasize the FM-X technology by recalling the DX synth line.

Here’s a quick table comparing MODX versus Montage. There are still a few blanks in the table which need to be filled out.

Of course, the important question is, “How much of the Montage did Yamaha leave out?”

First, let me say, you do get a lot. The MODX has full fat waveforms, arpeggios and performances (including voices in the flat Yamaha user interface world). Having heard and played the Full Monty, I will definitely be looking at the MODX to replace my MOX6, especially if the MODX6 weighs in at roughly the same weight.

There have always been differences between the top-of-the-line (TOTL) synth and its mid-range brother. The Montage has a metal chassis, balanced outputs, internal power supply (AKA “AC power”) and an FSX keybed with aftertouch. Therefore, I expected a plastic chassis, unbalanced outputs, external power supply and a synth action (61-key model) without aftertouch. Given the history of the MO product line, one could also expect fewer sliders, knobs and buttons. I’m glad to see the return of sliders, by the way. The plastic case of the MOX6 has held up rather well and usually guitars walk away worse for wear when they collide with the MOX6!

At this price point, I wouldn’t expect Pure Analog Circuit (PAC) audio either. I’m still a little surprised that the Genos offers TOSlink in place of PAC, BTW.

Thankfully, Yamaha did not skimp on the display. It’s the same 7″ wide VGA color TFT. I suspect that the Montage and MOXD share the same software code base, which was not true of the Motif XS/XF and the MOX/MOXF. The MODX has the same number of user and library performances. All of this parity is great news for the end user.

The MODX audio spec is cut down from the Montage. I expected this, too, knowing about the internal architecture of the Montage. The Montage has a dedicated SSP2 integrated circuit (IC) for audio routing and USB interface. This is like having a Steinberg UR44+ in the guts of your studio synthesizer. Thus, the MODX (probably without the SSP2) has fewer USB audio input and output channels. Although the leak doesn’t reveal the sampling rate, I doubt if the MODX will do 192kHz. [I wouldn’t mind being wrong about this doubt.]

The leaked write-up suggests that the MODX has the same effect algorithms as the Montage. The number of dual insert effects is lower in the MODX: 12 parts plus A/D input versus the Montage’s 16 parts plus A/D input.

I suspect that the number of parts per performance has been reduced from sixteen to eight. The front panel buttons provide access to eight elements (as expected with AWM2) or eight parts. Seamless Sound Switching (SSS) is supported for performances with up to 4 parts (versus 8 Montage parts). Take this speculation with a grain of salt as it’s trying to read between the lines of the write-up.

It is true, however, that the four sliders, encoder knobs and buttons are shared across eight parts or elements. Each control type has a button to select between group 1 to 4 and group 5 to 8.

• With four sliders, don’t expect to go all “Hammond” with drawbars.
• With four immediately accessible scenes (i.e., without making two button presses under live fire), don’t expect to jump across more than four voices on the fly.

The second concern is a serious one because Yamaha ditched a whole raft of buttons from the right hand side of the front panel (cost saving!) I currently rely on the MOX buttons to select among sixteen voices on the fly. This is important to me because I’m holding down bass and melody lines with our trio. I must make fast patch changes or something gets dropped musically.

The only place where I feel like Yamaha gratuitously tiered the Montage over the MODX is expansion flash memory. The expansion flash memory is the left over flash ROM capacity beyond the factory sound set. Trust me, Yamaha is not saving money by cutting this spec — it is a marketing decision.

There is so much yet to learn about the MODX. I’m hoping that Yamaha retained the deep performance (voice) editing from the Montage. The leaked write-up does not mention a “performance recorder,” so this is a total blank spot, too. Pricing for all models is yet known. Yamaha may sell the MODX at a premium versus the MOXF until the old MOXF stock is sold.

At this stage, I’m quite pleased. My MOX is going strong and makes it to the gig every Sunday. However, I have tasted the future with Genos™ and look forward to trying the Yamaha MODX.

Copyright © 2018 Paul J. Drongowski

The latest hot rumor. Do you question whether this is real or a hoax? An on-line retailer is running the text below with a price of 1,399 British pounds for the 76-key model. The Keyboard Magazine Forum has a picture of a 61-key model. Real or not?

I’ll post more thoughts later. I’ve gotta gig in an hour…

[Update: Please see my MODX vs. Montage comparison.]

[Previous update: Very likely real. Amazon accidentally posted a page for an 88-key model. The page is no longer active.]

AWM2 Synthesis Engine and FM-X Technology

The AWM2 acts as the heart of the synthesizer. The AWM2 (Advanced Wave Memory) synthesis engine is exclusive to Yamaha synthesizers, renowned for its versatility and sound design capabilities. The AWM2 provides processes both samples and synth sounds, providing ultra-realistic emulation of acoustic instruments, digital sounds and drums.

The FM-X (Frequency Modulation) section provides unique and expressive ways to create synth sounds. The highly-programmable technology provides the means for dynamic, electro-modern music creation. It can create everything from 80s synth sounds to cutting-edge EDM leads. The unique technology provides an 8-operator FM architecture with 64-note polyphony and a wide variety of filter types.

Semi-Weighted Keybed and Versatile Performance Controls

The MODX7 features a 76-note semi-weighted keybed, providing fluid playability. The semi-weighted keys provide added expression, emulating the feel of a traditional piano. The AWM2 engine delivers 128-note [?] polyphony and 64-notes of FM-X polyphony, opening up a new world of possibilities for creating sounds.

A wide range of performance controls are included, ideal for live sets and for use with music production. Empower your creativity with versatile controls for virtually every parameter.

The Super Knob is a highly unique control, acting as a virtual conductor for your music. It directs individual dynamic elements into a signal control. It provides simultaneous control of up to 128 parameters within a single performance. This gives you the ability to mix functions such as Volume, Pan, Effect and other parameters such as Filters, LFOs and more.

Four additional faders and encoders are included. These can be assigned to different functions and used for hands-on control of settings. Between each slider (fader) is a Scene button, It features eight Scenes which can be for different assignments such as Motion Sequence, Arpeggio Select number and even complete mixing. A range of transport controls are included, as well as a modulation and pitch wheel.

Integrated Premium-Grade Effects

A wide range of premium-grade effects are included for adding flare to your sounds. From high-definition Reverbs to Virtual Circuit Modelling effects, the powerful DSP engine delivers unparalleled audio fidelity and performance.

The effects range from standard delays and compressores to cutting-edge effects such as Beat Repeat, Vinyl Break or Bit Crusher. The specialised Spiralizer effect creating the sonic illusion of a tone rising or falling in pitch. There is even a Compression with a sidechain, allowing you to achieve the modern-day ducking effect.

Built-In USB Audio Interface

Aiding modern-day computer-based production, the MODX7 features an integrated 2-in/10-out multi-channel USB audio interface. The high-grade interface is coupled with two A/D inputs, making the MODX the perfect choice as a centrepiece in any studio or live setup. It provides single-cable connectivity, and even works with your favourite iOS device.

Envelope Follower and Motion Sequences

The Envelope Follower converts audio into a control source for virtually any synth parameter. For example you can use a drum loop to drive an effects parameter for a unique rhythm and/or vocal recording.

Motion Sequences give you the ability to create tempo-synchronised sequences which can be assigned to any parameter. This opens up new way to control rhythms and sound. It also features dedicated controls on the front-panel, allowing for real-time manipulation.

Ergonomic, Lightweight and Portable

The sleek and streamlined design is highly portable, making it ideal for live performances and studio sessions. The ergonomic layout is split into various sections allowing you to easily navigate between parameters, settings and sounds. The large LCD touch-screen provides a hands-on approach to accessing sounds and files. The Waveform-Rom of the synthesizer has been expanded from 741MB to 5.67GB. It also provides Seamless Sound Switching (SSS) for performances with up to four parts.

The compact and lightweight design makes it easy to transport. A dedicated transport case is available for the MODX, so you can transport your synth with maximum protection and comfort. The rear of the synth features a variety of connections. A foot switch/sustain output is available for incorporating expression pedals. There are also connections available for A/D input, as well as USB connectivity for USB to Device and USB to Host.

Features

• AWM2 (Advanced Wave Memory 2) sample and synthesis engine
• 76-note semi-weighted keybed for fluid playability
• Unparalleled sonic versatility for creating sounds from iconic 80s sounds to modern-day EDM cutting-edge leads
• Integrated performance controls include faders and encoders for in-depth control over parameters
• Ideal for both studio and stage use
• FM-X Synth Engine
• LCD-Touchscreen 7″-Colour-Wide-VGA-TFT
• Waveform-ROM expanded from 741 MB to 5.67 GB
• 2,370 new Waveforms, 6,347 total in ROM
• 1 GB Flash-ROM built-in
• Ca. 2,000 preset performances
• 640 user performances
• 5,120 library performances
• Seamless Sound Switching “SSS” for Performances with up to four Parts
• 13 dual insert effects (12 Parts + A/D Input)
• Over 256 preset live set slots, 2,048 User & 2,048 library live set slots
• 10,239 arpeggios
• Eight arpeggio Parts simultaneously
• Eight Scenes per Performance
• Master keyboard functions for each Performance
• Multichannel USB Audio Interface, 2-in/10-out