The next generation of Yamaha’s beloved MODX series has arrived — and we got the very first hands-on demo right here at Chuck Levin’s Washington Music Center. Yamaha Product Specialist Blake Angelos stopped by our studio to give us a deep dive into the all-new MODX M Series, and trust us — this one’s a game-changer.
Built on Montage DNA
The MODX M Series takes its power directly from Yamaha’s flagship Montage M, bringing its pro-level engines and workflow to a more portable format. The lineup includes the MODX M6 (61 keys), MODX M7 (76 keys), and MODX M8 (88 keys, graded hammer action) — all identical internally, with only the keybeds differing.
Under the hood, you’ll find three synthesis engines:
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AWM2 for sample-based realism
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AN-X for virtual analog power (12-voice polyphony)
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FM-X for complex 8-operator frequency modulation
Together, these engines create a massive sonic playground that spans classic synths, acoustic instruments, and cinematic textures.
A Fresh Design with Serious Upgrades
Yamaha completely redesigned the MODX M — sleek, modern, and built for expressive performance. The FSB key action on the 6 and 7 offers faster response and improved feel, while new display knobs and eight faders provide hands-on control inspired by the Montage M.
Blake walked us through the new display knobs, which adapt to what you’re editing — giving tactile control over envelopes, filters, and modulation without living in menus. The Page Jump button lets you leap from quick edits to deep editing instantly, while the Navigation view offers a bird’s-eye look at your full performance — effects, routing, modulation, and all.
Connectivity, Creativity, and Control
MODX M is more than a synth — it’s a 4x10 USB audio and MIDI interface with DAW remote integration for Cubase, Logic, Pro Tools, or Ableton Live. And in early 2026, Yamaha will release ESP (Expanded Softsynth Plugin) — a free VST3/AU plugin that brings your MODX M engine into your DAW. That means you can edit sounds on the road, sync them with your hardware later, or even run multiple instances live.
It’s workflow flexibility done right.
Sounds That Inspire
Blake’s demo showcased how expressive and rich the MODX M can be — from lush evolving pads and cinematic “Trailer Toys” textures to stunning acoustic pianos powered by the updated CFX2 sample. With Yamaha’s new Keyboard Hold, enhanced Super Knob macro control, and realistic articulations for guitars and electric pianos, the MODX M delivers sound and control that invite creativity at every turn.
Why MODX M Belongs in Your Setup
Whether you’re upgrading from a MODX or pairing it with a Montage M, the MODX M Series brings flagship power in a lightweight package:
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Same sound engines as the Montage M
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Doubled waveform memory
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Expanded flash memory for custom samples
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Deep DAW integration and MIDI 2.0 support
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Fully compatible with Montage M performances
As Blake put it best — “For me, this goes to the gig; my Montage M stays in the studio.”