Despite its name, the TX802 FM Tone Generator is basically a rack-module version of the DX7mkII with full 8-part multi-timbral operation for sequencing and/or key mapping. It has 16-voices of polyphony and six digital FM Operators, the same as in the DX7mkII. There are 128 preset and 64 user patches for your sounds, as well as an external memory cartridge slot.

As if the large keyboard DX versions weren't difficult enough to program, the TX802's limited interface makes editing and programming your own sounds next to impossible without the help of external hardware or software editors. In the late 1980's, the TX802 was an excellent way to get a compact box full of Yamaha's DX sounds.

cooptrol

June 18, 2012 @ 2:35 pm

Along with the TX81z, these synth provides infinite sound generation capabilities. And it's better than FM7 or 8, not just for all the reasons exposed in previous comments, but also because there is an editor made for the CTRLR free hardware control software, which can be opened as a VST and have all it's parameters automated in your DAW and controlled with any MIDI controller. Plus it's very clearly laid and much more easier for patch programming than the cumbersome Native Instruments plug-ins. And off course, the sound of these hardware synths, leave plug-ins asking for a mercyful death...

John

April 26, 2012 @ 1:15 am

My favorite rack synth is my Yamaha Motif Rack, but I also like to play with the older hardware, like my DX7. I picked up one of these TX-802s in perfect condition a couple of weeks ago, along with a RAM4 cartridge. I was surprised that programming it from the front panel turned out to be easier than I thought - once I printed out the manual and studied it a bit. The sounds are pretty nice.

mellotron

April 21, 2012 @ 2:13 pm

I have a TX-802 and love it.

I agree that FM8 is much more convenient and sounds all but identical if you have a decent audio interface. Anyone who says otherwise is fooling themselves or trying to wish it away for reasons of their own.

BUT

My TX-802 won't be left useless by the next operating system upgrade, and that makes it worth keeping around.

Swen

March 26, 2012 @ 8:16 am

I have to disagree about the way to FM today. There a some VST-Synths who pretend to be "1:1"-Emulations of Hardware. With those which are able to load Sysex from the originals i can only say I never heard one of those that was also able to play them.
I agree that software FM is easier to program and it's mobile, but that's it, it can't compete in any other way. If you got the hardware to record your hardware and don't have to use you laptops line-in plug, it will outsound most software when it comes to mixing.

mm

March 13, 2012 @ 12:23 pm

Two stars?!?!? FM7 is the way to go?!? Have you ever sent the same sysex to FM7 and DX7 or this monster? If you did so (which I doubt), any further comment is unnecessary... Nevertheless, I'll say - TX802 (or any other hardware 6op) have real, thick sound, while FM7 or FM8 have real, thick fart instead of that! Next time find some reviewer who actually played and programmed the instrument, not some kid with bunch of cheap plug-ins and less than 5 minutes on stage and in studio...

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