CS-5

Back in 1978, this compact powerhouse arrived as Yamaha's approachable entry into analog synthesis, packing pro-level tones into a footprint smaller than many guitars.

A single analog VCO delivers mixable sawtooth and pulse waveforms—complete with PWM—spanning 2' to 64' range, plus a noise generator for extra grit. The star is its versatile resonant VCF using the IG00156 chip: switch between 12dB/oct low-pass or high-pass, or 6dB/oct band-pass, modulated by ADSR envelope and LFO offering sine, sawtooth, or sample-and-hold. Hands-on controls include tune, cutoff, resonance, envelope depth, LFO speed/intensity, and portamento, all on a 37-key synth-action keyboard in a sleek black chassis measuring 641x290x157mm and weighing just 7kg. CV/gate in/out and external audio input let it integrate seamlessly into modular rigs or process other gear through that biting filter.

Synth enthusiasts often praise its punchy bass and leads—some even prefer its straightforward envelope over the CS-10's extra complexity—while noting the shared single EG means filter and amp duties trade off. Pair two via CV for duophonic fun, and it still holds up for raw, vintage character today.