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DX9 - Image 1

DX9

KeyboardDigitalPolyphonic

Back in 1983, this synth arrived as Yamaha's more approachable entry into FM synthesis, sharing the DX7's iconic shell but packing a simpler 4-operator engine that still delivers those signature metallic timbres without the full complexity.

At its core, it runs digital FM synthesis with 4 operators across 8 algorithms, each with dedicated 4-stage envelopes, a pitch envelope, and an LFO offering saw, square, triangle, sine, and random waves. You'll find a 61-key non-velocity-sensitive keyboard, modulation and pitch wheels, plus ports for breath controller, footswitch, and MIDI In/Out/Thru for integration. It holds 20 user patches in internal memory, saves to cassette tape, and outputs via stereo audio jacks with a headphone out—all in a sturdy 40x13x4-inch frame weighing about 27 pounds.

Over the years, players appreciate its gritty 12-bit sound and straightforward editing for bells, basses, and pads, though some note the lack of velocity and cartridge slot as limitations compared to siblings. It's a charming vintage piece that rewards hands-on tweaking.

Released

1983

Status

Discontinued

Synthesizer
Format
Keyboard
Type
FM
Internal Battery
No
Voice
A/D
Digital
Polyphony
Polyphonic
Oscillators
4
Oscillator Type
FM Operators
Voices
16
Filter
No
Envelopes
1
LFO
1
Effects
No
Expression
Aftertouch
No
Velocity
Yes
MPE
No
Additional
-
Software
-
I/O
Audio In
-
Audio Out
1 stereo
Headphone
-
MIDI
In, Out
MIDI Type
DIN (5-pin)
Ports
Sustain Pedal
Wi-Fi
No
Workflow
Arpeggiator
-
Sequencer
-
Mod Matrix
-
Memory
20 patches
Measurements
Dimensions
1018 x 329 x 102 mm
Weight
12 kg
Last updated Mar 25, 2026