The DX7, a classic FM synth, gets a make-over with three significant updates. The updated models feature a more sturdy chassis with actual push-buttons replacing the cheaper and less reliable membrane buttons of the original DX7. The two real time sliders (that allow for control of user-programmable parameters in real time) are larger than before. Internally, the biggest improvement is the updated 16-bit digital circuitry for cleaner and much less noisy sound quality. Patch memory has also been doubled from 32 to 64 voices. Additional general improvements include enhanced MIDI support, micro-tuning capabilities, aftertouch controlled pitch bending, and multiple LFOs.

The DX7IID and DX7IIFD (pictured) models also added bi-timbrality with keyboard split and layering capabilities. This allows two voices to be layered in dual mode, providing very rich combinations of sounds that would otherwise be impossible with the original DX7. Voices could also be split across the keyboard, for a two part multi-timbral performance capability; again, impossible with the original DX7 (or the DX7S, as the S stands for single timbre).

The DX7IIFD added a Floppy Drive (that's what the FD stands for) offering one megabyte of memory space (equal to 40 RAM cartridges) for thousands of voices, fractional scaling, SysEx data and more.

Pictured above in silver and gold is the DX7 Centennial, released in 1987 to celebrate Yamaha's 100th anniversary. Not just a new paint job, this limited edition model has 64-voice internal RAM memory and 64-performance memory, 32-note polyphonic stereo output (2 x 16 voices), and a 76-key velocity and after-touch sensitive keyboard that glows in the dark. Only about 300 were made and it originally retailed for $3,500!

Like the DX7, these updated models may have been used by The Crystal Method, Kraftwerk, Underworld, Orbital, Talking Heads, Brian Eno, Depeche Mode, D:Ream, Front 242, U2, A-Ha, Enya, The Cure, Stabbing Westward.

Jamie B

May 26, 2009 @ 12:31 am

Considering the very low price of a DX7 these days, don't even consider the TX81z. There IS a big difference in 4op and 6op. The only 4op board I ever liked was the V50, which was basically two TX81z modules plus drums, effects, and sequencer. The big advantage here was that instead of being a 12 bit system like the other 4ops, it used a 16 bit system like the 6ops, resulting in better sound quality. Aside from that, it had a thicker sound due to its layering capabilities, and also because of its effects.
In my opinion, aside from the V50, all other 4ops like the DX11, 21, 27 should be avoided unless you want something that sounds like a Nintendo system.

Maxim

May 19, 2009 @ 10:49 pm

I've owned a DX7 mkII FD for a few months, and recently got a TX81Z, and I don't feel like I'll ever need to buy another synth. It's fun to program and seems to be able to make any kind of sound I throw at it. Don't listen to anyone who says it's difficult to program--with a bit of reading and experimentation it's a breeze to make your own patches. Remember that setting output levels for modulators is essential for creating the kind of sound you want, and operator frequencies are best set (at least at first) to ratios for clean simulation of musical instruments. And I'd like to hear any other synthesis method create such intricate overtones!

The units I have are beat up from apparent gig use, but the tact switches and potentiometers still react without a problem. It's a shock to see noiseless operation from potentiometers that old that obviously have never been cleaned.

Pro5

January 16, 2009 @ 6:38 pm

The more I delve into this synth's possibilities the more I love it. I've programmed my own voices, and then 'performances' which made a massively 'fat' digital lead sound *unison mono mode in stereo*.. this is then put through some outboard effects to level the playing field against modern synths and it sounds... mind blowing. On top of that the playing feel is awesome, it really inspires when you have the right sounds and don't stick with presets or the overused stuff from the 80s.

Also, I know the mk1 is very cool - and worth owning just as the classic it is, but I know now that I'd really miss the layering and stereo/extra features found in this MkII so I'd easily advise this over the original for it being more usuable today (but both are still great regardless of what the cool analog crowd say - this thing does some amazing stuff I've not heard on my analogs or even my D50)

Martin

December 17, 2008 @ 11:04 am

It arrived today! I've spent an hour with it so far, and I'm in love. This machine is really the cats meow. Everyone needs one :)

Pro5

December 13, 2008 @ 7:53 am

Picked an 'almost mint' DX7 II-D up a few weeks ago for a very reasonable price (cheap!). This thing is a legend even the MKII. And while it may not be as 'cool' as the original, it has many great features over the mk1 to reccomend it. Action is good (esp when you can't hear the keys), it plays like a dream with any funky sound. Is very well built and pretty logical in layout unlike certain KORGS I could mention. Just to finally own one of these synths, after 20 years of dreaming (I wanted once since I was a kid first getting into keyboards).

Sounds crisp, great.. run it through some mild reverb/chorus/delay and you have something amazing that cuts through my other gear (D50 and various romplers, soft synths and analogs).

I'll just repeat it again: LEGEND. GET ONE!

5/5 all the way.

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