The Yamaha CS6X is a sophisticated control synthesizer that bridges the gap between entry-level instruments and high-end workstations. Designed with a striking silver finish that reflects the millennium aesthetic, this 61-key synthesizer offered professional features at a mid-range price point upon its release.

At its core, the CS6X utilizes Yamaha's proven AWM2 Sample & Synthesis system, featuring 479 high-quality sampled waveforms that form the foundation for its 384 factory preset voices. Each voice can comprise up to four elements, allowing for complex layered sounds with individual synthesis parameters including resonant filters, envelope generators, and LFOs.

The instrument's standout feature is its newly designed multi-mode filter, specifically engineered for dance and electronic music production. This filter offers exceptional versatility with low-pass, high-pass, band-pass, and band-reject types, each available in multiple variations including both digital and analog-style characteristics. The low-pass filter is particularly well-specified, offering 1-pole through 4-pole configurations.

Real-time control is a major strength of the CS6X, featuring eight dedicated control knobs for quick sound editing (filter cutoff/resonance, envelope parameters, and effect sends), plus modulation and pitch-bend wheels, and a ribbon controller. Four foot controller inputs and a breath controller input provide extensive performance expression options.

The onboard sampling capability, called "Phrase Clip," provides 4MB of RAM for capturing audio loops, drum patterns, and external audio sources. While limited to mono recording, it includes creative processing tools inherited from Yamaha's A3000 sampler, such as Loop Divide and Loop Remix functions that can dramatically transform recorded material.

Effects processing is comprehensive with two global processors (dedicated reverb and chorus/modulation/delay) and two insert effect processors. The second insert processor offers 92 different treatments, including experimental effects like Beat Change, Digital Turntable, and Tech Modulation that can radically alter sounds.

The CS6X's expandability sets it apart from competitors. Two internal slots accept PLG (Plug-in) boards that don't just add new sounds but entirely different synthesis methods - including analog modeling, FM synthesis, virtual acoustic modeling, piano sounds, vocal harmony processing, and GM/XG compatibility.

Performance features include a sophisticated arpeggiator with 128 preset patterns ranging from standard arpeggios to complete sequences, MIDI file playback from SmartMedia cards, and a flexible Performance mode that allows up to 16-part multitimbral setups or complex layered/split configurations for live playing.

The instrument excels in dance and electronic music production while maintaining versatility for other genres. Its sound character is contemporary and inspiring, featuring everything from squelchy acid-house sounds to lush orchestral textures, though acoustic pianos are considered its weakest point.

Technical Specifications

Keyboard & Controls

• Keys: 61-note velocity and aftertouch sensitive keyboard
• Real-time Controls: 8 control knobs, mod/pitch wheels, ribbon controller

Performance

• Polyphony: 64 notes
• Multitimbrality: 16 parts (20 parts with expansion boards)
• Performance Modes: Voice, Performance, Master Keyboard, Layer
• Scene Control: 2 scenes per voice with morphing capability
• Microtuning: Preset microtuning options

Sound Generation

• Synthesis: AWM2 Sample & Synthesis
• Waveforms: 479 sampled waveforms
• Voice Architecture: Up to 4 elements per voice
• Factory Voices: 384 presets (128 user-overwritable)
• Performances: 128 factory presets (all user-overwritable)
• Drum Kits: 10 factory (2 user-overwritable)
• Filter Types: Multi-mode resonant filter (LP/HP/BP/BR, 1-4 pole options)

Effects

• Global Effects: 2 processors (reverb + chorus/modulation/delay)
• Insert Effects: 2 processors (24 + 92 effect types respectively)
• Effect Routing: Per-element insert effect assignment available

Sampling

• Sample Memory: 4MB Phrase Clip RAM (non-expandable)
• Sample Slots: 256 clips maximum
• Individual Clip Size: 2MB maximum
• Recording: Mono only (external audio or internal synthesis)
• Processing: Loop, normalize, frequency conversion, Loop Divide, Loop Remix

Sequencing & Arpeggiator

• Arpeggiator: 128 preset patterns with user controls
• Playback Sequencer: MIDI file playback from SmartMedia
• Sequence Chain: Up to 100 steps with tempo/performance assignments

Connectivity

• Audio Outputs: Main stereo out + 2 individual outputs
• Audio Inputs: 2 inputs (line/mic/guitar level)
• MIDI: In/Out/Thru
• Controllers: 4 foot controller inputs, breath controller input
• Computer Interface: Direct PC/Mac connection via included software
• Storage: SmartMedia card slot (4MB card included)

Expansion

• Expansion Slots: 2 internal PLG board slots
• Available Boards:
  • PLG150AN: Analog modeling
  • PLG150PF: Piano sounds
  • PLG100VL: Virtual acoustic
  • PLG100DX: 6-operator FM
  • PLG100VH: Vocal harmony
  • PLG100XG: GM/XG compatibility

Display

• 2-line × 40-character monochrome LCD

Software Bundle

• Voice editor, Card Filer utility, XGWorks Lite (PC)

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