Description

Beautiful Yamaha CS-15 Duo-phonic Analog Synthesizer, just serviced and with original case for $1499!

The Yamaha CS-15 is a monophonic analog synthesizer released in the late 1970s as part of Yamaha’s CS series. Known for its versatility and rich analog sound, the CS-15 features two independent VCOs (Voltage Controlled Oscillators), dual filters, and comprehensive modulation options, making it ideal for sound design, bass lines, leads, and experimental music. Despite being a single-voice synth, the CS-15 offers complex routing possibilities that give it the capability to produce rich, layered textures.

Key Features:

  • Oscillators:
    • Two VCOs with sawtooth, square, and pulse waveforms. The oscillators can be mixed, tuned independently, and modulated to create a wide range of sounds.
  • Filters:
    • Each oscillator is routed to an independent filter, and the CS-15 is equipped with both high-pass and low-pass filters, allowing for precise control over the sound’s frequency content. The filters can be modulated via envelopes or the built-in LFO.
  • Envelopes:
    • Two ADSR (Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release) envelope generators, allowing detailed control of the amplitude and filter contours.
  • LFO:
    • The CS-15 features a Low-Frequency Oscillator (LFO) with variable rate, used for modulating pitch, filter, or pulse width to add movement and complexity to the sound.
  • External Input:
    • The synthesizer includes an external audio input for processing external sounds through the filters and envelopes, making it an excellent tool for live performance and studio use.
  • Modulation:
    • Comprehensive modulation options, including the ability to route different waveforms to separate filters and envelopes, allow for complex sound shaping.
  • CV/Gate Inputs:
    • The CS-15 supports Control Voltage (CV) and Gate inputs, enabling it to interface with external analog gear, sequencers, and modular systems.

Sound Profile:

The Yamaha CS-15 is known for its rich, warm analog tone. The dual VCO and filter architecture allow for a wide range of sounds, from fat bass lines and sharp leads to complex, evolving textures. The high-pass and low-pass filters add flexibility, allowing for deep sound sculpting and creating everything from lush pads to aggressive, cutting leads.

  • Bass Sounds: The dual oscillator structure provides thick, punchy bass tones that are ideal for electronic music and funk.
  • Leads and Pads: With its rich analog tone, the CS-15 excels at creating expressive leads and warm, evolving pads.

Aesthetic and Build Quality:

The CS-15 has a solid, vintage build, with a classic black metal chassis and intuitive control panel. The layout is user-friendly, with sliders and knobs for easy manipulation of parameters in real time. This makes it not only a reliable studio instrument but also ideal for live performance.

Applications:

  • Electronic Music: The CS-15’s analog warmth and versatility make it popular among electronic musicians, especially those looking for classic analog bass and lead sounds.
  • Experimental Sound Design: The dual-filter and modulation capabilities allow for deep sound design, making the CS-15 suitable for ambient and experimental music.

As Used By:

The Yamaha CS-15 has been used by artists and producers seeking the analog warmth and flexibility that comes from having multiple oscillators and filters. While not as famous as some other vintage synthesizers, its versatility and rich sound make it a valuable tool in both electronic and ambient music production.

Collectibility and Market Value:

The CS-15 has gained value over the years due to its vintage status and limited availability. It’s sought after by analog synth enthusiasts and collectors for its sound-shaping capabilities and high-quality build. The CS-series synthesizers, in general, are considered highly collectible, with their value steadily rising in the secondhand market.