Yamaha • TX802
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. Today, however, computer software plug-ins such as Native Instrument's FM7 are definitely the way to go for DX and FM-based synth sounds!
And it was less than half the price of any of my analog synths.
that hardware is different thing --
8 part polyphony, 8 separate OUTs, no CPU load, no latency, easier patch select choice -- these are even choices which arent in FS1R. Its 20+ years old and still compatible. I have never seen this kind of compatibility in computer industry.
And FM7? oh yeah, I will get headache if I will think that software crashes "which never happen", software personality, and the problem like always that I must have after next 5 years next computer and ALL the software is not compatible, so I have to keep the older and newer computer. its not my way to just get used with new computer system after every 5 years and loose the compatibility with my earlier hardware and software.