Yamaha MODX review: Everything you need to know // full tutorial

Рет қаралды 519,903

Күн бұрын

Yamaha has taken the brains in its flagship synth Montage, and put it in a much less expensive package. Here's an extremely comprehensive review of every material feature of Yamaha's MODX, including both synth engines (with a basic FM synthesis tutorial thrown in...), the arpeggiator (including how to make custom arpeggios and sequences) and MODX's powerful mod matrix and motion sequencing features.
Want to get ALL my tips in one convenient place including those to come in the future? Check out my In-Complete Book of Electronic Music Ideas, Tips and Tricks (hint: it's in-complete because it's always being updated…):
► Patreon: / loopop
Check out new and used prices (affiliate links support the channel):
► MODX on Amazon: amzn.to/3aECmSG
► New and used on Reverb: reverb.grsm.io/MODX
You can find the waveform editor I mention in the video here:
► www.jmelas.gr/montage/index.php
Other places I hang out:
► Web: loopopmusic.com
► Facebook: / loopopmusic
► Instagram: / loopopmusic
► Twitter: / loopopmusic
My music:
► Bandcamp: loopop.bandcamp.com
► Spotify: bit.ly/LoopopOnSpotify
► Apple Music:bit.ly/LoopopOnAppleMusic
Want to email me personally?
► Ziv (at) loopopmusic.com
Here's a timeline of the video:
0:00 Intro
0:40 Basic concepts/Performance
1:40 Sound engines
2:10 Samples (AWM2)
3:20 Elements
7:40 Common controls
8:20 Effects
9:40 Common LFO
10:05 FM-X engine
15:00 The mod matrix
16:30 Assigning knobs
17:30 Control Assign
20:15 Envelope Follower
21:20 Motion Sequencer
23:30 Super Knob
25:00 10,000 arpeggios?!
27:05 Creating your own custom arpeggios and sequences
30:30 Mixing, layering and splitting parts
32:00 Finding content on board and online
34:00 Using scenes
34:45 Connectivity
37:00 Pros & cons
NOTE: Occasionally I’ll try out affiliate marketing and include affiliate links. This means that I may earn a commission when you click on or make purchases via affiliate links. The content of this clip is entirely my opinion, and was not paid for or dictated in any way by the company creating the gear. Without addressing the particulars of products shown here as they might be under NDA, gear shown on this channel may be either sent by the manufacturer, on loan for review or bought at a discount.

Пікірлер: 807

@georgesboutz7534 4 жыл бұрын

Being an electronic music composer and having used only analog synthesizers, I am frightened by the complexity of this machine (which I was ready to buy) until I watched your entire video.. You have explained it better than anyone could. Your thorough knowledge of this machine and the way you explained each and every feature is nothing short of brilliant. Thank you.

@Galv140577 3 жыл бұрын

Being a failed electronic composer who started making music at 16, thought I would be pro and is now 43 and never been pro, I still have my old instruments and the YAMAHA ones still work and I can still produce a decent break beat.

@djkarlmillion 2 жыл бұрын

Still best synth for price and functions

@monaaarks7554 2 жыл бұрын

Effrayé ? Carrément ? Pour un compositeur de musique électronique , ça crains

@ZotheArtist Жыл бұрын

The only review i ever needed 😂❤️

@performtransform 7 ай бұрын

I'm similar...be ready to menu dive. Endlessly menu dive.

@deanwalliss8739 5 жыл бұрын

The synth is cool, but your demo is just the best. It's a really clear, dispassionate, comprehensive (but appropriately concise) summary of all the key features. Thanks.

@lwpweb 5 жыл бұрын

perfect presentation, excellent structured, a comprehensive tutorial in 37 minutes. Awesome. Presenter and MODX King.

@gabrieltellez5405 5 жыл бұрын

More than a review, this is a great tutorial! I got my MODX8 a few days ago and your video has been great for learning to use it. Thanks!

@darrenhirst9900 2 жыл бұрын

Watching this has made me understand what things do unlike the manual where its just words. Your tutorial has turned the words into meaning and made it fun. Your tutorial is going to make people want to create their own sounds including me so thanks.

@Pagroove 5 жыл бұрын

This really is a stellar review. Every aspect covered and almost to a manual level. When I get this synth it will help me immensely getting up to speed with this instrument. Thank you :).

@randysonnicksen9475 5 жыл бұрын

This was a fantastic review! You don't gloss over the subjects, but go just deep enough to reassure me that this model can do what I need in each topic area. And, you didn't waste a lot of time jabbering on and on like other reviews I've seen. Obviously there is a TON of material to present here and I thought you found the perfect balance between an overview, and a detailed tutorial. Nicely done!!

@suga4all 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the great in depth review. I got my MODX 8 a couple of weeks ago and am still learning, learning, learning... Its such a monster of a synth, you have to love it :-) Your review helped me to even find more options, such as the user defined arps!

@mikeflick4091 4 жыл бұрын

A phenomenally helpful tutorial on MODX basics! Even though I've owned Montage 6 for more than a year, I learned a few new tricks from your video. The capabilities of the MODX / Montage really are amazing - especially now with the 3.0 / 2.0 OS update. Yamaha seems committed to this platform.

@BobMcCarroll 5 жыл бұрын

Best video on the MODX yet. Thanks for taking the time to pull this together. Cheers, Bob.

@metaspherz 4 жыл бұрын

Yours is the first place I check for new reviews. You never fail to expertly explain in the simplest terms without a lot of confusing jargon. I thought that the MODX was a much more expensive keyboard with all the functions and the touch screen. It sounds amazing. And the price for the 61 key version is very reasonable and much less than I thought. I assumed that a workstation of this calibre would cost a couple grand at least.

@heartpath1 5 жыл бұрын

Man, you're good at this. You should have a KZfaq channel.

@iamgeorgesears 5 жыл бұрын

Oh hey there :)

@bobcatt2294 3 жыл бұрын

If he had one, I would be a subscriber foe sure :)

@findingsolutions198 3 жыл бұрын

Lol

@BritoWorx 5 жыл бұрын

You really make the best product reviews. Very informative precise content. Thank you for making these videos.

@MichelBarbaro 4 жыл бұрын

Wow! That's a top-quality video! I confess, sometimes, I've got myself distracted by the quality and details of the video. It's a tutorial to watch, at least, ten times and without getting bored. Thank you so much for your time and for this so helpful information!

@Crvmbs 5 жыл бұрын

Thank you for having the persistent table of contents 💙 makes browsing through the video so much easier

@thebmusproject 2 жыл бұрын

Wow - I'm blown away by both the keyboard and the quality of your review - thanks a million!

@MrPian0Mann 5 жыл бұрын

Probably the best tutorial on the MODX that I've found. It makes so much more sense now and things are starting to click. Thanks for the info

@theeventhorizon-valebridge9512 4 жыл бұрын

As always, the best demonstrations, reviews and tutorials on KZfaq! Thank you for your channel, it's much appreciated.

@jeffty60 5 жыл бұрын

Nice work...this video has really helped me understand my new MODX7 in deeper ways than I could glean from the manuals. I adore this new synth and I look forward to learning how to use and understand it better. Thank you!

@mindphaser23 Жыл бұрын

I just recently upgraded from a MOXF6 to the MODX6. I was tempted to use the adjective “mind-blowing” for the depth, sound and complexity of the MODX6 at this price point, especially a gently used one, but I am saving that adjective for the depth, sound and complexity of your review/tutorials. Been long following you, but finally had to throw in my good word after this particular video. Even as an owner of a MOXF6 and MOX8, I was still perplexed by this machine. YOU are a so-called godsend!

@TechGently 5 жыл бұрын

Being deaf in one ear people aren't so clear to me, but your voice is so clear it's no wonder other Yamaha demo people refers people to this page.

@zebramasklover 5 жыл бұрын

I ordered one, waiting for it to arrive! Your demo is very helpful, you show so many things, and I can't wait to try out making my own arps! That would be awesome!

@aloharay 5 жыл бұрын

great video man, you hit all the feature and provide just enough demonstration without getting bogged down. subscribed.

@gustavoelizondo2498 5 жыл бұрын

The arpeggiators truly blew my mind. I was considering this as my new buy, now I am pretty sure I'll eventually own one! Just need to decide between the 6 or the 7 version...

@jaremajanowski7646 4 жыл бұрын

Big thanks. The knowledge you have shared is invaluable, especially for beginners like me. Teaching at its best. Yamaha is my first "serious" synthesizer, so this video was extremely helpful. But enough sweetening, if you could go on with it would be really great. There are still plenty of topics to discuss here. Greetings from Poland

@modularmuse 4 жыл бұрын

I'm getting a MODX7 today and this video is already a lot of help.

@tirameyhey1845 2 жыл бұрын

Everything you need to know to get started in a nutshell, and so well explained! Thanks a lot for this tutorial, it is very helpful!

@jamessisson3703 3 жыл бұрын

I really hope the individuals that helped develop this system are being very well looked after with Yamaha. Quite amazing work. I purchased one of these just for the Piano sound!

@ahol967 5 жыл бұрын

I was immediatelly enthusiastic, when I see LARGE screen window of MODX. Bravo!

@winiarjt 5 жыл бұрын

Bravo...finally someone that did a tutorial properly!

@fpvision9851 4 жыл бұрын

You really should do an updated version of this, since the MODX now got a friggin SEQUENCER with the latest update! Props Yamaha, you made a great synth even better!!!!!

@HammyGirl999 2 жыл бұрын

Yes Pleeeeaze! :D

@WyattLite-n-inn Жыл бұрын

@@HammyGirl999 I concur…

@godsmacker744 13 күн бұрын

Piano roll included? :-)

@Individual_two 5 жыл бұрын

Excellent review! I love digital synths and the MODX is truly a steal given its capabilities.

@mymg9587 2 жыл бұрын

Excellent presentation skills on this MODX in a very detailed with technical terminology… Modulations, amplification, Oscilations, Gain, DC pulse and AC waveform with various electronics terminology… Awesome! Thanks for sharing.

@tommyfeinstoff 5 жыл бұрын

that's a whole FM synthesis lesson! thanks for that!

@duckunderground183 5 жыл бұрын

Fantastic overview as usual! Love your content man

@mzekonis 4 жыл бұрын

Thank you for this video - it’s been invaluable to me as I begin to learn the MODX architecture.

@ewetoo 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for this, its great that the update includes a pattern sequencer now!

@javiceres 5 жыл бұрын

I just got one. The Pros&Cons stated here are absolutely spot on.

@ToyKeeper 5 жыл бұрын

It's a really deep engine. Do you find it useful for composing songs, or do you find yourself getting lost in the engine, tweaking sounds and settings?

@microfx 5 жыл бұрын

again the best presentation out there! keep it up!

@isleofmelody8082 5 жыл бұрын

Awesome review and tutorial buddy. I am actually on the look out for a good synth and your video has given me a good clarity. Subscribed.

@InTheMixReviews 5 жыл бұрын

This is an amazing walk-through video! I'm totally buying this!

@GadzhevStyleSample 5 жыл бұрын

for me this is the best presentation of a synthesizer menu, accurate, clear and brief greeting to the whole team 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏

@loopop 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks it’s just me and my dog for emotional support :)

@Cap10NRGMusic 5 жыл бұрын

You did a really nice job of going over the ModX. These are great keyboards - and at the price, they are amazing! I had already bought a Montage and love it.

@atrothe 6 ай бұрын

What a great teacher this man is. Just made for the job, very very clever simplicity.

@kalinmirchev 5 жыл бұрын

This is not just a review, this is comprehensive, yet simple tutorial, a must see for all Yamaha MODX users, especially for these moving from another brand. Thank you for this exceptional video!

@yusun5722 4 жыл бұрын

This is exactly what new buyer needs. Thank you for the amazing contents.

@ShEhsan 10 ай бұрын

This tutorial could answer several questions of mine about Montage actually. Great! Thanks

@Jtcrawford3 3 жыл бұрын

Yamaha should pay you for this video. Because of this video and your excellent explanations of nearly everything I just purchased the MODX8 tonight. Say thank you Yamaha and send him some free stuff.

@reginaldworthington7558 4 жыл бұрын

You really have done a remarkable job on this video. I clicked to see what this synth was all about, more interested in the basic sample sounds like piano, rhythm section, etc. to be honest. But I just had to stay with it until the very end as it was damn interesting to see the deep dive into the synth functions and you did such a great job of explaining. Production values top notch as well. Thanks and well done.

@foreverseethe 3 жыл бұрын

but he does use jargon and lots. in the span of 1 MINUTE 9:50 - 11:00 i heard lfo, mod matrix, harmonic, sine , fm engine, operators. You have to be versed in synthesis terminology and waveform physics to follow his videos. But I did appreciate the attempt at informing his viewers of fm. And btw i believe the opposite of subtractive synthesis is simply additive or LA synthesis. sorry to be that guy.

@maquettemusic1623 3 жыл бұрын

@@foreverseethedon't be that guy in the future. You don't need to know "waveform physics" lmao what.

@ChevonneReynolds 3 жыл бұрын

I just ordered my MODX, I can hardly wait until it gets here! Thanks so much for this video!

@220nextlevelsound 2 жыл бұрын

How you liking it?

@Audiorial 4 жыл бұрын

i love this beastie synthie ! and always dig your content/voice/ambiance on your videos..

@jjrusy7438 5 жыл бұрын

WOW! This thing is off the chain. Yamaha is awesome. The price is awesome for all of this too.

@GiorgioBertuccelli 5 жыл бұрын

you are the best reviewer anywhere .. great job !! I bought one and love it !

@smiljanicn 4 жыл бұрын

Top notch review! That screen is very helpful, nice color sceme they picked. After review, in MODX,I see parts of Kurzweils VAST and that it is still pretty much relevant today.

@johnoneill4924 5 жыл бұрын

It’s like the type info you get in Sound on Sound....this is a terrific tutorial....well done .....I even listened to the FM stuff, having had a DX7 and a TX 81z and abandoned FM programming at a much younger age...lol...thanks for posting.

@bobcatt2294 3 жыл бұрын

Dude, please use the name SOS sparingly, that is a monster dedicated to synth reviews that is well respected. The writing and in depth reviews is without qualification - full stop!

@sivrisayzir 5 жыл бұрын

THE BEST VIDEO EVER ABOUT MODX GOOD JOB!

@derecwilsom4546 5 жыл бұрын

I love the way you compd in the close up of the screen, it looks like it has some kind of holographic large display, I was dissapointed when i figured out that it didnt have one :) great video

@geoffk777 5 жыл бұрын

Great demo. I have a Montage 8 and this was actually quite helpful, even after owning it for a while. The extra controls on the Montage are nice, but the extra weight is a killer--it's barely portable. I'm actually thinking of getting a MODX as a gigging keyboard, and I would have probably just gotten a MODX instead if they had been on sale a year ago. The sounds and control on this instrument are incredible. Being able to go from a solo violin or horn to an ensemble and back again with the Superknob really adds to the realism and expression. And the pianos are outstanding, especially the Bosendorfer download.

@dude65535 5 жыл бұрын

Thank you! You really did cover everything I actually wanted to know to help decide whether to trade in my MOX8 for a MODX8, including things like how you actually fiddle with the FM synth or program your own arpeggios (I will be able to do them!). Thank you. :)

@rolux4853 4 жыл бұрын

Jerome what do you mean with it seams? Could you tell by looking at the video? Did you play it yourself? Did you read it in a synth forum? And how do you know about the longevity? Do you own it? It’s not that long on the market so the keyboard has to be really whacky if it has already broken down. No offense, I’m just curious how you’ve gotten to your conclusion..

@bobcatt2294 3 жыл бұрын

@Jerome Casio does make great hallmark level keybeds.

@jaycantar6190 Жыл бұрын

Great info! Thank you for taking the time and effort in putting this together, and all the fine details within. I'm learning about the: Yamaha MODX8+, Korg Nautilus and the Roland Fantom 08 - (all 88 key), all similarly priced. So this detailed video definitely helps!

@chrisplansker4025 5 жыл бұрын

So much better than some dude playing blues licks on a bad organ preset. Thanks for the in depth info.

@vickhouston568 3 жыл бұрын

😂😂😂

@atokwamenaquayson6916 3 жыл бұрын

Lmfao 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😭😭😭

@demolitionkid2 4 жыл бұрын

5 mins into it and i already know this is the review i was looking for. thank you this is really helping me decide betweeen this and the f-06

@adamjerny5051 4 жыл бұрын

and what do you decided??

@autobotsNdecepticons 5 жыл бұрын

Wow, thanks for the great tutorial. Had no idea how all this synth stuff worked.

@MrARProductions 5 жыл бұрын

Great Tutorial, I have been looking for in depth information, Thanks!!!

@gbkny1 4 жыл бұрын

This has to be one of the best synth reviews made. I can actually understand it.

@Danieltoritomayor 5 жыл бұрын

Hi, i like your explain, the review its excellent, better than the Yamaha demos. Thank You.

@Teleken1968 5 жыл бұрын

That may very well be the best explanation of Yamaha-style FM synthesis I've ever seen, and I'm an old man that's been playing since the original DX7 was released. Well done! *tips hat*

@loopop 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the comment, Ken - really appreciate it!

@Teleken1968 5 жыл бұрын

loopop You’re welcome. What I find funny about AWM on the Yamaha synths is it reminds me so much of the editing process on the VPS Avenger VST, which I dearly love programming. That may be enough to get me to buy a MODX and learn the FM as a bonus. :)

@paulmutter8301 4 жыл бұрын

Great review. So thorough and a perfect aid for anyone seriously thinking of buying one (like me :))

@michaeltyborski4802 3 жыл бұрын

A MODX6 sits on my Apex dual keyboard stand now. I'm glad that I gave up planning to learn guitar. "Texas Chicken Pick" and the other guitar presets sound great. Well, all 2000+ presets sound great, for that matter. Thanks for another excellent intro and tutorial.

@nickpritchard7130 2 жыл бұрын

A highly complex synth. Huge learning curve. Great vid. Thanks.

@jaybeetdown 5 жыл бұрын

This is great! Cant wait to try this at home!

@noitnova 3 жыл бұрын

Yamaha must pay you for making this. Nice clear review.

@ajotech 2 жыл бұрын

WOW!!!!!! You are an amazing wealth of knowledge, talk about experiencing a complete mind expansion. It’s like you were on the design sound engine team at Yamaha lol:) Thank you so much

@Utkarsh_A 5 жыл бұрын

You know those Sweetwater videos on KZfaq all the time where people are explaining a new product, they should be worried about how good your videos are Also thank you for making a Review on the Neutron, your video really helped me understand that synth a lot better and helped decide on what I want

@bobcatt2294 3 жыл бұрын

The dealers task is to sell, so not very objective when it comes to the, "Cons."

@michaeltyborski4802 3 жыл бұрын

Your super review put the MODX6 on my acquisition list. Funny, I have not even started using the Korg Krome 61 (used) that I just bought. The MODX6 manual(s) will be the deciding factor. You are right about the learning curve. Presets help beginners, such as myself, get started.

@YourFreeBeats 3 жыл бұрын

Did you end up getting one? I have the 7 and love it. Probably a tad more than my FA06. If you didn't get it and are wanting a mid-market Yamaha WS, I can also recommend the MX. In fact, I probably prefer my MX over the MODX..and it's half the price.

@joonglegamer9898 4 жыл бұрын

This tutorial style review is even useful for Montage owners like myself - so keep making those, Montage and ModX are def. beasts that needs to be tamed, can be a bit intimidating at first.

@smiljanicn 5 жыл бұрын

Excellent review, really enjoyed watching zoomed display. First thing i would do if I ever buy MODX or Montage is to shortcut and fry that led, not to turn off, fry!

@thesnipecatcher116 5 жыл бұрын

Great video as always! Loved the sound of these from the get go, but man, the menu diving is pretty daunting. I checked one out at a music store and had no idea how to get around at all...either did the salesperson:)

@Magic_GamingTM 3 жыл бұрын

Nice video, I just got me a Montage 8 so this was very helpful!

@Aleredes 5 жыл бұрын

Fantastic! Thank you for this information!

@909Thumper909 3 жыл бұрын

my god. what an amazing vid! your run through taught me things about this i never knew after having it a year. im chucking two other major pieces of gear now that this replaces them lol! I only wish theyd make a rack version w more parts

@PMonterde 2 жыл бұрын

Thank you for the video, the best that I saw about modx, very useful for me.

@renanbrazilianmusic668 5 жыл бұрын

Undoubtedly the best video. nice explanation... Peace and music

@TommyRogersAlabama 4 жыл бұрын

Awesome excellent video on functionality and options. Thank you!!!

@Two-Vees-In-a-Van 3 жыл бұрын

Awesome review, very enjoyable, thank you.

@MichaelFClef 4 ай бұрын

Excellent demo. Thank you for sharing.

@TenMilL 5 жыл бұрын

Love your humor in pointing out the obvious first, referring to the 23min mark.😅 good job.

@cindygroves5804 5 жыл бұрын

Good overview! BTW, you can speed up the responsiveness of the touch screen by turning off animations and blur in the Utilities menu.

@samson8884 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the tip. As I was watching this video, I felt the need to turn off the animations. Your confirmation will go a long way in helping many decide about purchasing the MODX :)

@adam_volt 5 жыл бұрын

Confirming.. works much better.

@XanderEwald 5 жыл бұрын

So basically, Windows 95 with keys? I’ll see myself out, thanks. 😂

@BrunodeSouzaLino 3 жыл бұрын

You can also turn the LED of the Motion Knob off.

@pseudointelligence5964 3 жыл бұрын

@@BrunodeSouzaLino What about the beep when tapping the touchscreen? Someone mentioned you can switch that off on the Montage but maybe not on the Modx

@synthplayer1563 5 жыл бұрын

Wow, that's so far the best introduction to the technical aspects of MODX! Some thought that Yamaha has no coolness factor anymore but this MODX is awesome. For me one of the best buys at the moment (saying as owner of Moog, DSI, Behringer, Novation, Waldorf, Roland synths). But shame on Yamaha again no aftertouch on keyboard therefore a module version would be even better.

@geoffk777 5 жыл бұрын

You can buy a Montage, which does have aftertouch. Yamaha had to cut some things from the Montage to get the price down and a keyboard with aftertouch was one of them.

@YouzTube99 5 жыл бұрын

@Synth Player Agreed that the lack of aftertouch is frustrating. Note that in addition to Yamaha, Korg and Roland (probably others?) reserve that feature for their premium/pro keyboards. To be fair, both the keybed and electronics to support aftertouch can add significantly to the base cost of an instrument. And they want to give us some incentive to spend Big Bucks.

@lancepage1914 5 жыл бұрын

You're presentation is beautiful, you are the most comprehensive reviewer of gear. I like that. This machine is phenomenal. This is why Yamaha will always be in business. They have packed everything they have pioneered in synthesizers into one affordable package. Simply amazing I need one. Thank you Loopop.

@BritoWorx 5 жыл бұрын

Lance Page well put. I’m selling some of my gear now to get one of these. I’m not a synth savant but I don’t understand why people bash this synth, seems great to me.

@Jason75913 5 жыл бұрын

@@BritoWorx all of the bashing motivation is trivial stuff or bs from what I've read so far

@rickanderson9360 2 жыл бұрын

Excellent! I've gigged with the MODX for over a year and am just starting to really did in and do more programming. I just referred back to this video today, I still get a bit confused where things are with elements > parts > performance. In particular, the analog-style poly and lead patches that you can build are way better than the lousy stock patches in those categories.

@ruikazane5123 5 жыл бұрын

I'm just finding a synthesizer. And I found this video. Oh my...! That customization! I can never put everything all of those in my mind! But that is too bulky for me, as I do keytar things. But if I want a proper one, this is it.

@winddealer1 5 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the concise review.

@erichulien1769 Жыл бұрын

This was exceptional. Thank You!

@2.7petabytes 5 жыл бұрын

As always, love your in-depth reviews! Now my head hurts though. I appreciate all of the functionality but it feels like I’d have to take a whole course to fully understand and effectively use this synth! That’s most likely the novice in me talking I guess.