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.

HideawayStudio

October 2, 2011 @ 6:01 am

@Brydo: Well said - I'm growing increasingly frustrated with the ill informed information on these pages. There is nothing "humdrum" about this synth - the 802 is a very capable 6OP synth with much opportunity for deep layering with decent modulation and expression and, like all of Yamaha's better FM offerings, is very capable in the right hands. Some of the strings on my 802 are gorgeous - especially when warmed up with a bit of analog chorus and/or tube EQ. Think of it less as a potentially cold standalone instrument and more a powerful oscillator source to a warm analog back end.

XOX

August 31, 2011 @ 1:57 pm

The reson for the differet sound betwen the TX-802 and the TX-7/DX7 are that the first generations (TX7/DX7) had 10 bit output. The DX7 II and the TX802 have 12 or 16 bit (cant remember) outputs, and this give more dynamics and a lower noisefloor. The first generation sounds more compressed.

stublito

August 1, 2011 @ 5:23 pm

I do an 80s act, this thing is essential for authentic recreation of music from that era. However, I recently added a TX7 specifically for bass parts. For instance, when you play the standard Superbass sound at high velocity on the 16 bit TX802, it "clacks". When you do the same on the TX7 it "gracks", and sounds somewhat compressed, there is a noticeable difference. Long live A-ha!

robotunes

June 3, 2011 @ 11:59 pm

To program it, you'd need something that can send system exclusive messages, such as the Novation SL MKII. Comes in 25-key, 49-key and 61-key models and even has aftertouch. But programming system exclusive messages is confusing and tedious.

If you have a PC (or a Mac with OS 9 in Classic Mode), you can use the software that Yamaha created to edit the DX200 (which is a DX7s, NOT a DX7 as everyone keeps yammering on about).

Join Yahoo's DX200 group (groups.yahoo.com) and find it in the Files section.

pajacke

May 30, 2011 @ 11:31 am

True, but Jellinghaus made only about 25 of the programmer. It's actually bigger than an original DX7.
So chances are, you'll never get to see one..

<121110987654>

 

Post Comment!

Your Name: (Required.)

Email Address: (Required, not published.)

Image verification: (required)

Message:

 

Posting Rules:
Please keep your comments relevant! Do not post requests for help, do not use for sales, do not post unless you have something interesting to say about this instrument, or we may delete your post.

I have read and understand the posting rules.