MOTIF 6 Keyboard Workstation

Back in the late '90s, this workstation kicked off Yamaha's legendary MOTIF series, setting a benchmark for digital synths with its blend of expansive sounds and studio-grade sequencing that pros still chase today.

At its core is the AWM2 tone generator powering 128-note polyphony across a hefty wave ROM library, delivering everything from realistic pianos to synth leads through 18 filter types and a deep effects suite including 9 reverbs, 22 choruses, and Virtual Circuitry Modeling insertions. The 61-key FS action responds beautifully to velocity and aftertouch, paired with hands-on controls like 8 knobs/sliders, a large color LCD, pitch/mod wheels, and a data dial for quick tweaks in its studio-style mixing environment. It packs four intelligent arpeggiators with thousands of presets, an integrated sampling sequencer supporting flash memory expansion, audio I/O for resampling, and full MIDI/USB integration—ideal for live performance or DAW control.

Players have long praised its vast, high-quality soundset and reliable workflow for gigging and composing, though some note the interface feels dated next to newer touchscreens.