S30

Back in the late '90s, this synth caught the ear of legends like Herbie Hancock and Ryuichi Sakamoto, who tapped its versatile digital tones for everything from lush pads to crisp leads in their studio sessions.

At its core is Yamaha's AWM2 synthesis engine powered by 24MB of ROM, delivering 256 preset voices including stereo-sampled pianos, strings, and more, with 64-note polyphony across 16 multitimbral parts. It packs 64 multi-mode resonant filters, a single LFO for modulation, and expansive effects like 12 reverbs, 23 choruses, 93 insertion effects, plus support for plug-in boards via two slots. The 61-key velocity-sensitive keyboard with aftertouch feels responsive, paired with four assignable data sliders, five knobs for hands-on MIDI control, a built-in arpeggiator with 128 patterns, and sequencer for quick ideas. Dual stereo audio outs and full MIDI make it a solid standalone or controller in any rig.

Players still hunt these down on the used market for their warm, reliable sounds and modular expandability—though some note the interface feels a bit dated next to modern touchscreens, the build quality and voice depth keep it a go-to for gigging pros chasing that classic Yamaha vibe.