All user reviews for the Yamaha CS15

This analog synth is arguably the best synth I've ever played in my life. More versatile than most synths of its ilk, it's got some of the richest tones that I've ever heard come out of an electronic instrument. It's an eight-voice polyphonic synthesizer with controllers for all effects, including pitch, modulation, sustain, vibrato, tremolo, and others. It originally didn't come with midi but some have been retrofitted to use MIDI. Since these are not made anymore, they're really expensive, and you're just as likely to find one with MIDI as without. The original synth was able to connect to other OB synths through the digital buss system that they developed. This technology also allows the synth to connect to drum machines and sequencers, though only with particular models which I have not come across.


UTILIZATION

The setup isn't too difficult, and the manual is clear enough on how to operate it. Since it's an older piece of gear, the technology isn't too complex, and most people should be able to figure it out. The editing and effects can take some time to be able to manipulate with ease, but with practice it becomes a more natural process.


SOUNDS

The sounds of the CS-15 are some of the most useful synth sounds I've ever used or seen used on recordings. They are known for replicating actual instrument sounds as much as creating their own warm, powerful, unique textures. They are particularly effective for adding huge low end to recordings, as well as providing other subtle textures.


OVERALL OPINION

I can honestly say it's the real deal. It's definitely way out of the price range of most people, but it's definitely up there with any Yamaha synthesizer in my opinion. I can't speak for all of them, but the few that I've heard are pretty comparable to this one. I've tried other synths but none compare in my opinion (except for the OB-4 and some of the other Yamaha's). I can't tell anybody to pay the ridiculous price that they are inevitably going to end up paying, but I will say that if you want one analog synth, save up and get this one. You'll be glad you did.

A pure vintage keyboard, see dtail Previous notice.
It's cots apprcie robust.
2 ADSR
CONTRL of the filter with a controller is very practical.
No breath.
Design particulirement well think that allows a full interview.
9 for MIDI but not good in 1979 ...

UTILIZATION

There's no simpler.
You turn the knobs.
The noise is very practical.
The filter is trs drawing, especially if you use an external signal

SOUNDS

For the sound vraimment is fantastic, cs 15 fits all styles.
Sonora is located between the moog and 20 ms.

OVERALL OPINION

A pure analog synth that remains in affordable prices.

As others have said, a good two monophonic occilateurs.
It has everything very promptly can dream a monaural quality and more.

These peculiarities are, sync the two CSOs, white noise quality, two separate filters for each CSO, two assignable ADSR anything, low pass filters, high pass and band-pass, resonant but do not self-occilation like Moog.

For a comprehensive mono.

UTILIZATION

We do not get any easier. The scheme is classic and effective immediately we control the machine if you know one can subtractive synthesis.

SOUNDS

The sound of the CS-15 is the top of the series of CS. The CS-30 is a more complicated program and does not match any synth, so it's CS-15 remains the choice for a conventional monophonic.
The filter is specified, the sound and slap it is particularly punchy, it was not the width of a Moog or Oberheim, but each style!

Its originality is to have a very personal sound, at once warm and precise, and also with the possibility of an envelope super fast flapping in the manner of a Prophet 5.

Perfect for sequenced bass and rhythm, it appears the mix thanks to its exceptional dynamic. For sub bass or choose Moog Studio Electronics.

OVERALL OPINION

I love this device. It is deeper than the professional Korg Monopoly / Polysix, the Roland SH and even the Oberheim SEM. I have a CS-30 and CS-15, and I guard.
Note that the filters including aging badly and HIPASS bandpass mode. Check when buying.

A synth with a unique opportunity side very low, currently around 500 EUR. This synth deserves to sell 1000 EUR. With the rarity of this type of machine is a worthwhile investment, because I think these machines more and more expensive in the future.

In addition the quality of the CS-15 (and all CS) far beyond the MFB, Technosaurus, Evolvers, Analog and other new modes, with components made of poor quality. To the ear, the difference is fundamental. So considering the price, it's a very good deal.

A monophonic synthesizer, two oscillators, two envelopes. Connectivity in HP of course.

Knobs not very pleasant to the touch when the faders, the caps tend to tear. Too bad.
The rest has already been said.

UTILIZATION

Setting clear, this is a classic analog synth. Not need the manual for a moment.

Of the several tests I've done, the notes were not always stable, while it was the same machine, without repair in the meantime. rejoute is the same note twice in a row, the sound is different. Or is his age. what disturbed me is that according to the sessions, the difference could sometimes be very weak throughout the session or very strong.

SOUNDS

Very good grain, it is surprising to play, play play without releasing the keyboard without looking at the time, just to produce sound variations.
And ..... the model I had used the amplitude envelope in the bay, (note permanently) so I was limited on what I could play with. Despite this, the grain is beautiful.

OVERALL OPINION

Used several times at a friend had one. This is a superb machine, which I reproach especially the feel of knobs / faders.

For the rest of this machine is really a good analog synth with a nice grain, a true interior life (that moves by itself, but in a good way). I strongly advise those wishing to offer a silent analogue recent to first look in that direction.

What type of keyboard (synth, piano ...)? How many octaves?

- Analog synth
- 3 octaves
- 2 VCO
- 2 VCF (12dB)
- 2 ADSR
- 1 LFO
- A noise

What controllers (pitch, modulation, sustain ...)?

- Pitch
- Breath (modulation of the cutoff)
- Portamento

What connection (Audio, MIDI, pedals ...)?

- CV only

How many sounds, effects? What styles? Are they edited?

- Monophonic
- No effect
- No backup

UTILIZATION

The general configuration is it simple?

- Analog synth-type Edition ... you turn a knob, it acts directly on the sound ... it's fantastic

Editing sounds and effects is it easy?

- You can not do better ...

The manual is clear and sufficient? ...

- Yes, very good basis to learn about subtractive synthesis

SOUNDS

The sounds they are suitable to your style of music?

- Yes, very versatile and highly configurable

Are they realistic?

- No, it's not the goal

The effects are they effective and responsive?

- No effect
- The addition of a compressor can make the CS monster for big bass
- A reverb transcends leads to vangelis
- That deposit ...

The expression is good? (Response to velocity, aftertouch to)?

- Control Voltage for immediate
- No aftertouch (only CS 80)

OVERALL OPINION

How long have you use it?

- 1 year

What is so special that you like most and least?

Most:

- Synth versatile
- Incredible opportunities
- Value for money

the -:

- It takes 8 to a CS80 ... and again ^ ^


Have you tried many other models before buying it?

- I tried: Minimoog Voyager, juno 106, Crumar Multiman
- I have a Prophet 08
- I really explored the series of V Arturia ...

How would you rate the quality / price?

- Currently the best value for money market

With experience, you do again this choice? ...

- Carrera!

It is an analog of 1979. 3 octave keyboard (no velocity or aftertouch) and a button to pitch original ... No modulation wheel. It has 2 outputs (Hi and Low) and an input filter for an external signal (Happiness!). Monophonic (one note!), CV / Gate (in Hz / Volt! As Korg!), Non-programmable (no memory!), No doubt: this is a vintage! O)

UTILIZATION

The configuration is simple but effective: 2 VCO, 2 VCF multimode (Low Pass, High Pass, Bandpass resonant ... all!), 2 VAC, 2 ADSR envelopes and an LFO. In addition, it has a glide by VCO and a portamento. Next edition, it's vintage: a knob per function! There's no simpler! For effects, forget!

SOUNDS

A multimode filter for each independent oscillator .. Enough to make a plethora of small acid sounds that I like, deep bass, warm brass, 80's Lead ... But beware: though resonant filters do not wobble! The sound has nothing to do with a Roland SH, for example! on the other hand, a loop filter with a real analog filter bandpass is pure happiness ...!

OVERALL OPINION

I've had it about a year. And it is one of my favorite vintage. The sound is original and fun and (I repeat myself but hey) double filtering is insane! In short, if you find one not too expensive (I bought mine CHF 2300 euuh ... .. 350.63 Euros, I mean!), Please! It's worth it!

(Originally written by Aurochs4/translated from Audiofanzine FR)
Everyone already knows the features. 100% analog technology.

This sturdy synth provides an excellent manufacturing quality!

I only miss a second LFO which would greatly enhance the possibilities.

I would also prefer pitch bend and brilliance wheels instead of sliders, but like I said before this product has a very high manufacturing quality.

Virtually no noise even at maximum volume.

UTILIZATION

Very easy to use. This synth doesn't need a user's manual and it is really plug'n'play. Very intuitive use: VCO -> VCF -> VCA.

After a quarter hour warm up you can tune the device and it doesn't change anymore.

To edit sounds you must use rotary controls, which you either love or hate, and their feel is somewhat peculiar.

SOUNDS

Smooth and accurate sound. It blends perfectly in every mix without taking up too much space. Don't expect a big Moog sound. Its sound is thinner, with a better definition and much more precise. Unlike Moog products leads and basses don't sound too fat and big. That's the reason I like it: I can be played with many other different instruments. The VCFs are not self-oscillating and it's better so because you can actually use the full resonance range. I think that's one of the reasons this synth has the reputation of sounding very precise.

OVERALL OPINION

I've owned it for 25 years... 25 years! It was my first synth. Mine was manufactured in 1980 and I had it fully serviced last year. I cleaned it up, changed all condensers (filter and envelope chemical and nonpolarized condensers are very important), I checked it with an oscillator to adjust the linearity, the wave forms, and the tuning. I removed all potentiometers, cleaned them up and lubricated them, etc. You have to be very patient with a CS-15... Removing both panels takes a whole afternoon.

I sort of recovered the instrument and it's once again a delight to play it as if it were the first time. Time seems not to go by when I play this synth! And it gives your songs a whole new dimension.