The SY99 is like having a super-sized sampling workstation with the synthesis and sounds of a DX-7mkII. Basically the same as the SY77 it features a larger 76 note keyboard with upgraded synthesis, sample memory, sequencer and more! For its synthesizer section it employs a 6 operator AFM synth engine similar to, if not better than, the original DX's. Sampled preset sounds (AWM2) can then be fused with the AFM sounds to create entirely wild new sounds! And these sounds are quite shapeable thanks to the resonant multi stage Time Variant Filters which offer the ability to recreate the warm analog sounds of classic synths, or something entirely new.

There's an enhanced on-board sequencer section for creating your songs right on the SY99. It's got 16 tracks, from which channel 16 belongs to the built-in drum synthesizer. The sequencer can hold up to 27,000 notes, 99 patterns and 10 songs. And since the SY99 features 16 voices of polyphony for the AFM section, and another 16 voices for the sampled sounds, there are 32 voices to go around to build your song. Not to mention there are 2 digital multi-effects processors which include reverb, delay, chorus, panning and more! Professional features for those of you want to really control and shape your sounds using the unique sounds (and complex synthesis) of a Yamaha FM synth with some special features up its sleeve. It has been used by Vangelis and Chick Corea.

CJ

October 3, 2012 @ 6:07 pm

I inherited one from a relative a few years ago and I love it, but one of the keys gets stuck down. I've looked for fixes online, but couldn't find anything.

Can anyone direct me to a fix or replacement part for this? Would be much appreciated. Please email me if you've got a solution. Thanks!

christopher.jachmich [at] gmail {dot} com

Derwin "Dave" Johnson

September 14, 2012 @ 2:26 pm

Here we are in 2012! I just traded a very heavy Roland A90-ex for the "less" Heavy Yamaha Sy-99. I used to have the Sy-77 back in the day. I don't know why I parted ways with it! I am truly proud to own a Sy-99 now! Considering the outrageous price of $4,000.00 on the nineties! This keyboard got BALLS! If you are into smooth Jazz or Funk, this keyboard is highly recommended! I Love FM electric piano from the DX era! Now, when you use combinations, you are in DX HEAVEN!!!!!!! I got mine for a good price. This keyboard is a direct descendant of DX7 world/grandparents of the MOTIF!!!

Jack

September 2, 2012 @ 5:46 am

I'd like to buy sy99. If You have one for sale , give me informations on email: dj-jack@wp.pl

rtype909

July 28, 2012 @ 7:29 am

I have just got an FS1r (again, after 4 years) and i'm going to compare it to the Sy99 over time. The FM sounds sound cleaner and the operator functions, un-voiced are more complex. Will see.

Louis

July 19, 2012 @ 5:46 pm

If you look at the keyboard and bank/operator layout you can really see that it is the motif's grandparent. it was the most advanced workstation in the world in those days... And i dare anyone to show me a similar (which means with the same possibilities and market) synth with such great FM potential in it! Apart from that... i am also very charmed about fact that it has aftertouch in the keys, something that was rare in those days.

My opinion... if you have one... DON'T sell it... NEVER!!! it is simply too great to let go. (for fun... try to get a Motif to do the same FM work as the SY99!)

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