Yamaha • DX-21
A consumer level DX synth that sounds just like the DX-100 - thin and brittle. Following the DX model this synth also uses FM synthesis which is difficult to master. You will need to program this synth to get better sounds because the presets are only moderately useful. It's capable of a good string, bass and droney-pad sound as well as industrial sound-effects and metallic like sounds.
Still it makes a better option than a DX-27 or DX-100 because it has the capability of layers and splitting the keyboard and there is a chorus effect. Portamento and a Unison Mono-Mode are also nice features for screaming lead synth performances. For a cheaper source of DX sounds with moderate programmability, check out the DX-21. It's been used by Hardfloor, Level 42, Brother Beyond, Astral Projection, Technotronic, Vangelis, and Norman Cook (Fat Boy Slim).
The lack of velocity-sensitive keys is a big detractor, but there's always the DX7 I guess. This is currently my 2nd tier board for the rig I gig with when I play with The Amps (www.myspace.com/theampskc.) Turn on the chorus for most voices. Also layer the same voice on top of itself and detune for some pretty rich sounds. The pianos, string and brass all [beep] if you ask me.