Yet another FM synthesizer from Yamaha, this one comes in a compact, multitimbral, 1-unit rackmount module and is basically a key-less version of the DX-11. It has far more professional features than its relative, the FB-01. The TX81Z features great FM type synth sounds similar also to the DX-21 and DX-27. It's still not as good as the classic DX-7, but it's an inexpensive source of those sounds with lots of programmability. Eight voice polyphony, 128 preset sounds, 32 user and lots of functions hidden behind 11 push buttons.

The TX81Z features a new ability to use waveforms other than just a sine wave. There are eight voices that can be split, layered and detuned. Also onboard are pseudo-effects including delay and reverb. These features can be stored as performance setups. The effects are simply envelope and re-triggering effects. The TX81Z works great as a sound-module for any live or studio production. It's got a wider range of sounds than the DX-7, may not be quite as warm or 'classic' sounding, but at its low price and with the excellent MIDI implementation it makes a great alternative or backup synth for percussive, punchy FM synth sounds. It's used by Fluke, Roni Size, Astral Projection, Squarepusher, Jimmy Edgar, Future Sound of London, and Josh Wink.

52 VISITOR COMMENTS

Klarity

May 20, 2012 @ 9:33 pm

Armin Van Buuren used this on 'Blue Fear'. Perfect for throwback trance sounds, and won't break your bank.

Ishmael

April 30, 2012 @ 1:47 pm

Nice song Aiwendil, good usage of the sounds, I really enjoy this one, I haven't even gained much ground on it yet. I fiddle around with some algorithm changes here and there, as well as implementing my own stylistic sounds in Init voice. I'm still working on that though, as well as tuning the performance parts, it's a bit strange but awesome to play with. The catalog takes a bit of getting used to scroll through everything and figure out what button makes you go forward or backward or other. I use for experimental music and more so later on, so youtube Ish233 if curious. Happy to have it !

Aiwendil

April 1, 2012 @ 5:24 pm

I wasn't bothered to read the whole 10 pages of comments, but like dr3tri wrote, it sounds just as good as anything else made in the same period and is actually quieter than for instance the Roland MT32/CM32L series which I would kinda compare it to.

I bought one from the US for a friend of mine recently and just threw something together just now: http://www.eox.no/TX81Z_demo.mp3

Mind you.. this is very much a rough sketch only...will maybe finish it later this easter we'll see (cont.)

Aiwendil

April 1, 2012 @ 5:22 pm

(cont.)
Everything you hear is the TX81Z. Apart from boosting, EQing, reverbing and a little pattern gate on one part, it's just as it is from the box. The obvious downside of this module is of course it's drum area - it's got practically nothing default apart from a kick, two rather thin snares and a lousy FM Hi-hat as you can hear. So you'll need something else to give you that extra punch we crave nowadays.

But the Lately bass and the FM pianos still do their thing ;)

sanny

February 29, 2012 @ 4:05 am

Amazing project from Amiteque modern version of TX81Z (TX81ZT)http://www.wix.com/tx81zt/tx81zt

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