Description

Synth hits keep coming! Late 70s Yamaha CS-50 4-voice monotimbral synthesizer. Just fully serviced at Synths When. A true little beast. $6499!  Please note that this is available by appointment only.

  • Overview: The Yamaha CS-50 is an analog polyphonic synthesizer released in 1976. It is part of Yamaha’s CS series, known for their rich, warm sounds and expressive capabilities. The CS-50, while being the smallest and most affordable in the series, offers a range of features that make it a versatile and powerful instrument for both live performances and studio work.

    Key Features:

    • Polyphony:
      • 4-Voice Polyphony: Allows for playing four notes simultaneously, suitable for complex chords and layered sounds.
    • Oscillators:
      • Single VCO per Voice: Provides sawtooth, square, pulse, and sine waveforms.
      • Oscillator Sync: Capable of syncing oscillators for richer harmonic content.
    • Filter:
      • Low-Pass Filter: 12dB/octave resonant filter with cutoff and resonance controls.
      • High-Pass Filter: Non-resonant high-pass filter for additional sound shaping.
    • Modulation:
      • LFO (Low-Frequency Oscillator): For modulation of pitch, filter, and amplitude with adjustable rate.
      • Envelope Generators: Two ADSR (Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release) envelopes for detailed control over amplitude and filter modulation.
    • Performance Controls:
      • Keyboard: 49-key, full-size, semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch for expressive playing.
      • Ribbon Controller: For pitch bending and modulation, adding a unique expressive capability.
      • Portamento: Glide control for smooth transitions between notes.
      • Touch Response: Initial and aftertouch response for dynamic control of filter, amplitude, and modulation.
    • Preset and User Sounds:
      • Preset Patches: Includes a selection of preset sounds for quick access to classic tones.
      • User Programmable: Allows for creating and saving custom sounds.
    • Connectivity:
      • Audio Output: Standard 1/4″ output for connection to amplifiers, mixers, or recording equipment.
      • Pedal Inputs: Inputs for sustain and volume pedals to enhance live performance capabilities.

    Sound Characteristics:

    • Rich and Warm Analog Tone: Known for its lush, warm, and expressive sound.
    • Versatile Sound Design: Capable of producing a wide range of sounds, from basses and leads to pads and effects.
    • Expressive Playability: Aftertouch and ribbon controller provide unique expressive options.

    Applications:

    • Genres: Suitable for electronic music, rock, pop, ambient, and experimental music.
    • Usage: Ideal for live performances, studio recordings, and sound design due to its rich sound and versatile features.

    Country of Manufacture:

    • Japan: The Yamaha CS-50 was designed and manufactured in Japan, known for its high-quality build and engineering excellence.

    Notable Features:

    • Expressive Controls: Ribbon controller and aftertouch provide unique expressive capabilities not found in many other synthesizers of its time.
    • Robust Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of live performance and frequent use.
    • Classic Design: Vintage aesthetic and intuitive interface make it a timeless instrument.

    Notable Users:

    • Vangelis (Electronic/Ambient): The legendary composer used the CS-50 for its expressive capabilities and rich sound.
    • Eddie Jobson (Progressive Rock): The British keyboardist and violinist has utilized the CS-50 in his performances and recordings.
    • John Carpenter (Film Score): The renowned film director and composer has used the CS-50 in his iconic film scores.

    The Yamaha CS-50 is a classic analog synthesizer known for its rich, warm sound and expressive capabilities. With its 4-voice polyphony, versatile oscillators, and unique performance controls like the ribbon controller and aftertouch, the CS-50 offers a wide range of sonic possibilities. Whether used for live performances, studio recordings, or sound design, the CS-50 delivers exceptional analog tones and creative potential, making it a valuable instrument for musicians and producers.

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