EX5

Back in 1998, this beast introduced Yamaha's Extended Synthesis system, blending four cutting-edge tone generators into one keyboard for sounds that spanned realistic pianos to wild analog-modeled leads and virtual acoustic instruments.

Its four-element voice architecture lets you layer up to four AWM2 waves, mix in AN physical modeling for thick synth tones, FDSP for dynamic note-responsive effects, or VL for lifelike wind and string emulation, all with 128-voice polyphony and built-in sampling at 44.1kHz. The 76 semi-weighted velocity-sensitive keys feel responsive under your fingers, paired with aftertouch for expressive control, while the intuitive front panel offers dedicated knobs, sliders, and buttons for real-time tweaking. A 16-track sequencer holds about 30,000 notes, 4-track arpeggiator with 50 patterns, and robust effects—12 reverbs, 17 choruses, 79 insertions like distortion and auto-wah—route through four stereo outs and dual MIDI ins/outs. At 20kg with dimensions of 1268x407x129mm, it's a sturdy workstation built for stage or studio.

Players still hunt these down on the used market for their unmatched synthesis variety in the late-90s era—praised for versatile, "alive" sounds that hold up today, though some note the learning curve for non-AWM modes and occasional menu diving.