The Yamaha EX5 represented upon its release a groundbreaking advancement in synthesizer technology, combining multiple synthesis methods in a single professional workstation. As Yamaha's flagship model in the EX series, it integrates four distinct synthesis technologies: AWM2 (Advanced Wave Memory), VL (Virtual Acoustic), AN (Analog modeling), and the newly introduced FDSP (Formulated Digital Signal Processing). This multi-synthesis approach reflects the industry's recognition that no single synthesis method can provide the complete range of sounds demanded by modern musicians.

The EX series consists of three models: the 61-key EX7, the 76-key EX5 (flagship), and the EX5R rackmount module. Each model shares core synthesis capabilities while offering different feature sets and price points to accommodate various user needs.

Physical Design and Interface

The EX5 presents itself as a solid, professionally built instrument with substantial weight and a spacious, well-organized front panel layout. The 76-key keyboard features moderate travel with a pleasing semi-weighted feel, though some users may notice slight key bounce on rebound. The front panel is dominated by six chunky infinite rotary controller knobs that invite hands-on sound manipulation, complemented by a modest backlit graphical LCD display.

The instrument follows traditional workstation architecture, incorporating a multitimbral sound section, comprehensive multi-effects processing, an onboard multitrack sequencer, and a built-in floppy disk drive. Modern touches include an sophisticated arpeggiator that functions more like a live sequencer than a traditional arpeggio generator.

Synthesis Architecture

AWM2 Sample-Based Synthesis

At the EX5's core lies Yamaha's AWM2 sample-based subtractive synthesis architecture, drawing from an impressive 16MB sample ROM containing nearly 2,000 samples and waveforms. This foundation can be expanded through the instrument's built-in stereo sampling capabilities, though the standard 1MB of sample RAM is quite limited for serious sampling work (expandable to 64MB via SIMMs plus 8MB Flash memory).

The sampling system operates at 16-bit, 44.1kHz resolution in mono or stereo, with basic editing capabilities including graphical looping, copy, delete, append, normalize, and extract functions. More advanced editing requires external software via SCSI transfer. The system supports up to 1,024 samples and is compatible with WAV, AIFF, and Akai formats.

Each AWM Element features a comprehensive synthesis architecture with oscillator, filter, and amplifier sections, each with associated envelope generators and two assignable LFOs. The filter section includes one Static Control Filter with eight filter types, followed by two Dynamic Control Filters (configurable in parallel or series) offering multiple filter configurations. Envelope generators provide sophisticated control with initial hold time and multiple stages.

Virtual Acoustic (VL) Synthesis

The VL synthesis component brings Yamaha's physical modeling technology from their dedicated VL-series instruments. Operating in monophonic mode, VL synthesis provides 271 preset "waves" that can be routed through a 5-band parametric EQ and low-pass resonant Dynamic Control Filter. While direct editing of VL driver, pipe/string, and modulator parameters isn't available, key parameters like embouchure, tonguing, throat, and growl can be assigned as modulation destinations in the Controller Set matrix.

Analog Modeling (AN) Synthesis

Derived from the AN1x synthesizer, the AN synthesis provides authentic analog synthesizer modeling, though with reduced polyphony compared to its dedicated counterpart. The AN component is oriented toward bass and lead sounds, operating as duophonic in AN (Poly) + AWM mode and monophonic per element in other configurations. The synthesis architecture carries over from the AN1x (minus the noise source), with 42 AN parameters available for dynamic control through the modulation matrix.

FDSP (Formulated Digital Signal Processing)

FDSP represents Yamaha's newest synthesis innovation, treating AWM element output as input signals for further synthesis processing. This "adjunct" to AWM synthesis provides ten distinct processing types:

1. Electric Piano Pickup
2. Electric Guitar Pickup
3. Water
4. Pulse Width Modulation
5. Flange
6. Phaser
7. Self FM
8. Tornado
9. Ring Modulator
10. Seismic

FDSP processing can be applied independently to each AWM element, allowing combinations of straight AWM and FDSP-processed sounds within a single voice. The processing is note-specific and velocity-sensitive, providing dynamic, per-note effects that go beyond traditional global effects processing.

Voice Architecture and Performance Limitations

The EX5 organizes its synthesis capabilities into seven Voice Types:

• AWM (pure sample-based synthesis)
• VL + AWM (physical modeling with sample layering)
• FDSP (enhanced sample processing)
• AN (Poly) + AWM (analog modeling with sample layering)
• AN (Layer) + AWM (dual analog modeling layers)
• AN + FDSP (analog modeling with enhanced processing)
• Drum (multi-sample drum kit configuration)

Each voice type supports up to four elements with independent key and velocity splitting/layering capabilities. However, significant limitations emerge in multitimbral applications: only one FDSP, AN, or VL voice can be used simultaneously in Performance mode, with the DSP unable to handle multiple instances of these processor-intensive synthesis types.

Effects Processing

The EX5 provides comprehensive effects processing with dedicated reverb (12 types), chorus (17 types), and dual insertion effect processors (24 and 79 types respectively). Each voice can be programmed with its own effects settings, and elements can be independently routed through the insertion effects or set to bypass them entirely. Effects parameters can be assigned as modulation destinations within the Controller Set matrix for real-time manipulation.

Sequencing and Performance Features

Arpeggiator

The EX5's arpeggiator transcends traditional arpeggio generation, functioning as a sophisticated 4-track "live sequencer." With 50 preset and 50 user memories, each arpeggio can contain complex note sequences that interact with played notes through various search modes and octave transpositions. The four-track capability allows for layered, polyrhythmic sequences triggered from simple chord input, with each track capable of independent MIDI transmission.

Pattern and Song Sequencing

Pattern mode provides 50 8-track patterns with individual track length settings (minimum one quarter note, maximum 16 bars), creating complex polymetric sequences. Song mode offers 16 linear tracks plus dedicated Pattern, Play Effects, and Tempo tracks, with comprehensive recording modes including step-time, multi-record, replace, overdub, and punch in/out capabilities.

Sound Character and Applications

The EX5 delivers a characteristically Yamaha sound signature combining sonic brightness with warmth, power with delicacy, and extended frequency response from deep bass to piercing highs. The instrument excels across 22 instrumental categories, with particular strengths in electric pianos, pads, strings, basses, and leads. The integration of multiple synthesis types allows for sounds impossible with any single synthesis method, from realistic acoustic instruments (VL) to punchy analog-style sounds (AN) to enhanced sample-based textures (FDSP).

Professional Assessment

The EX5 represents a solid, impressively accomplished professional synthesizer that successfully combines familiarity with innovation. While not revolutionary, it offers genuine sonic versatility through its multi-synthesis approach. The instrument's main limitation lies in its inability to fully utilize multiple synthesis types simultaneously in multitimbral applications, forcing reliance on AWM-only voices for complex arrangements.

The EX5 succeeds as both an evolutionary step forward and a comprehensive professional tool, suitable for diverse musical applications from stage performance to studio production. Its combination of proven technologies with innovative FDSP processing creates an instrument that is both immediately familiar to Yamaha users and genuinely expanded in capability.

Technical Specifications

Keyboard

• EX7: 61 keys
• Touch Response: Velocity sensitive, Channel Aftertouch
• Feel: Semi-weighted with moderate travel

Sound Generation

• Synthesis Types: AWM2, VL, AN, FDSP, Sampling
• Sample ROM: 16MB containing ~2,000 samples and waveforms
• Sampling: 16-bit linear, 44.1kHz, stereo/mono
• Sample RAM: 1MB standard, expandable to 64MB (SIMM) + 8MB Flash Memory
• Maximum Samples: 1,024 samples in RAM
• File Format Support: WAV, AIFF, Akai formats

Polyphony

• AWM/Drum: 126 voices
• VL + AWM: 1 + AWM polyphony
• FDSP: 16 voices (EX5/5R)
• AN (Poly) + AWM: 2 + AWM
• AN (Layer) + AWM: 1 + AWM
• AN + FDSP: AN: 1 voice, FDSP: 8 voices

Voice Architecture

• Voice Types: 7 different synthesis configurations
• Elements per Voice: Up to 4 (except Drum mode: up to 128)
• Drum Layers: Up to 64 per key
• Total Voices: 512 (256 Presets, 256 User)
• Voice Categories: 22 instrumental categories

Performance and Multitimbral

• Performance Memories: 128 user
• Multitimbral Parts: 16
• MIDI Channels: 16
• Synthesis Limitation: Only 1 FDSP/AN/VL voice per Performance

FDSP Synthesis Types

1. Electric Piano Pickup
2. Electric Guitar Pickup
3. Water
4. Pulse Width Modulation
5. Flange
6. Phaser
7. Self FM
8. Tornado
9. Ring Modulator
10. Seismic

Effects Processing

• Reverb: 12 types
• Chorus: 17 types
• Insertion Effects: 79 types (2 processors)
• Programming: Per-voice effects programming
• Routing: Independent element routing to insertion effects

Filter Architecture

• Static Control Filter: 8 types (low-pass, high-pass, band-pass, inverted low-pass, parametric EQ, shelving filters)
• Dynamic Control Filter 1: 8 types (low-pass 24/18/12/6dB, high-pass, band-pass, band elimination)
• Dynamic Control Filter 2: 4 types (low-pass, high-pass, band-pass, band-elimination)
• Configuration: Parallel or series routing

Modulation System

• Controller Sets: Up to 16 per voice
• Modulation Sources: 13 (pitch-bend, aftertouch, mod wheels, foot controller, ribbon controller, breath controller, 6 front-panel knobs)
• AWM Parameters: 34 available for modulation
• AN Parameters: 42 available for modulation
• LFOs: 2 per element with multiple waveforms and sync options

Sequencing Capabilities

Song Sequencer

• Tracks: 16 sequence tracks + Pattern + Play Effects + Tempo tracks
• Resolution: 480 PPQ (1/480 of a quarter note)
• Capacity: Approximately 30,000 notes
• MIDI Sync: Internal, MIDI Clock, MTC
• Recording Modes: Multi, Overdub, Replace, Punch In/Out, Step-time
• File Formats: SMF Format 0 (Load/Save), SMF Format 1 and ESEQ (Load only)

Pattern Sequencer

• Tracks: 8 per pattern
• Patterns: 50 total
• Length: Up to 16 bars (individual track lengths variable)
• Minimum Length: 1 quarter note per track
• Recording Modes: Multi, Overdub, Replace, Step-time

Arpeggiator

• Tracks: 4 simultaneous
• Memories: 50 Presets, 50 User
• Recording Modes: Overdub, Replace, Step-time
• MIDI Transmission: Independent MIDI channels per track
• Groove Templates: 100 presets + user-programmable

Storage and Connectivity

• Floppy Drive: 3.5-inch DSDD/HD
• SCSI Port: For mass storage (optional ASIB1 interface board)
• File Operations: Save, Load, Rename, Delete, Make Directory, Format

Display and Controls

• Display: 64 x 240 pixel backlit LCD with contrast control
• Front Panel Knobs: 6 infinite rotary controllers
• Numeric Keypad: Full numeric entry
• Function Buttons: F1-F8, comprehensive transport controls
• Bank/Program Buttons: 8 Bank + 16 Program/Part/Track

Audio Connections

• Main Outputs: L/Mono, R (phone jacks)
• Individual Outputs: 1, 2 (EX5/5R only)
• A/D Inputs: L/Mono, R (EX5/5R), single input (EX7)
• Headphones: Standard connection
• Breath Controller: Dedicated input
• Output Impedance: +18 dBm (10k ohms), Phones: +12 dBm (33 ohms)

MIDI Implementation

• MIDI A: In, Out, Thru
• MIDI B: In, Out
• Implementation: Full MIDI specification
• Note: Not XG or GM compatible for playback

Controller Inputs

• Footswitch: Sustain + additional footswitch
• Foot Controller: Assignable foot controller input
• Foot Volume: Dedicated volume pedal input
• Ribbon Controller: Built-in ribbon controller
• Modulation Wheels: 2 wheels
• Pitch Bend: Dedicated wheel

Power and Physical Specifications

• Internal PSU
• Power Consumption: 32 watts (EX5)

Dimensions

• 1268(W) x 407(D) x 129(H) mm (49⅛" x 16" x 5 1/12")

Weight

• 20 kg (44⅛ lbs)

Optional Accessories

• EXIDO1: Individual Output Board
• EXDGO1: Digital Output Board
• ASIB1: SCSI Interface Board
• EXFLM1: Flash Memory expansion
• DRAM SIMM: Memory expansion
• FC 4/5: Footswitch
• FC 7: Foot Controller
• BC 3: Breath Controller

Factory Included Accessories

• Owner's Manual
• Data List
• 4 Demonstration disks (songs and factory settings)
• AC Power Cord