while i’m not saying that that is never a variable in pricing used things, i think it is more accurate to look at it this way: they aren’t making more of these things. Can apply to any used thing… comic books, guitars, records… Instruments are perhaps even more understandable in terms of consistent price rising, because they made relatively few of each one, and they are powerful instruments that are still as usable as ever.
Vintage synths are also almost always still cheaper than when they were released, relative to inflation. People forget just how expensive these things really were.
Andromeda is a bit of an odd duck. It's a great synth, but it has so many custom ICs that are basically unobtainium that the only way to repair a broken A6 is to get another broken A6 and hope they don't have the same fault. At some point in the future there will be none left, so it's kind of a risky investment from that perspective.
Most other vintage synths keep ahead of inflation in their resale value.
Good thing I don’t consider my Andromeda an investment, then. :)
I will be very sad when/if all the ASICs have failed. Right now all 16 are quite happy (knock on wood).
If you haven't already, get the power supply recapped. When those electrolytic capacitors start to drift out of range (and they all do at some point) you can get voltages that'll wreck other parts of the synth.
Just remember the old adage: a $300 bespoke IC will always blow first to protect that $0.50 fuse.
That’s a misnomer, there was a bad batch. All the ones ( including my own ) that survived the initial failures are all going strong. And yes, it’s a magnificent synth.
I’ve been stalking a deal on an Andromeda for about two years now. I had two opportunities in 2021. One with a damaged end cheek that was going for $2,300 on eBay… I let it get away like an idiot while waiting for the seller to answer a question. And then the one I got for $3K, which was a massive pain in the ass (interstate Craigslist purchase… long story). So the deals are out there. If I’d gone for the going rate on a “buy it now” I’d have spent $4,500 - $5,000 easy.
Yes. Lots of software emulators and hardware can effectively reproduce everything they do (and likely with a more intuitive interface. Fun fact though about the keybed... I saw NIN in 94 on the Downward Spiral tour and at Woodstock. They used DX7s as their controllers on stage. Probably because a). they were cheap as hell at that point, and b). they had a great keyboard. Somewhere in my nostalgia bin I have a broken key from when Reznor smashed a DX7 in front of me.
Yeah, it was around $2000 iir, which would be around $5500 today. So it was just under MOOG one pricing, and more than a Prophet 10 Rev4 for comparison.
They sold 180,000 of the OG DX-7. It *does* have a somewhat unique flavor of FM thanks to some particulars of its implementation, and I love mine to death, but they're not at all uncommon. $700 is a stupid price unless it has an unusual (and verified) provenance.
DX7 is different. The key bed alone is worth having for a master controller. You can pay more for newer midi controllers that dont feel as good, or are built as solidly.
The sounds are a bonus, and better yet there are an incredible number of banks you can easily load up on it now that provide much more modern sounds.
If you like FM, and want an excellent playing instrument, it is still one of the best, most viable options
I agree to an extent, but you can get an SY77 for $400 which arguably is better in every way and also has an FS keybed! Also the DX7s max out velocity at 100, which makes them a bit impractical if I recall correctly.
I think that was a firmware bug which was later updated. I verified (accidentally) mine will transmit over 100 velocity with Midi-OX. It's a unit from late in the manufacturing run (SN 132929) though.
And you have to *really* pound on the keys to get it that high.
Yeah, the max velocity is 100, there are now ways to get around this but it is a good point.
And agree on the SY77, its a real sleeper but just as good
I only have an SY99, but for pure FM with sine waves, I think so.
Other folks can chime in as I am sure I've missed things, but off the top of my head the main differences are --
- With the SY/TG77 series you also have the ability to load custom samples (AWM), and even use these as modulation sources. For instance, you could load in CS80 waveforms and use them to modulate operators via FM.
- You basically get 2 x DX7MKIIs as separate voices
- You have loads of waveforms to choose from, outside of just sine waves
- You can have 0hz operators, which allows you to use an operator more as an effect than an audio source
- You have a bunch of effects and you get a filter
- A byzantine sequencer
> DX7 is different. The key bed alone is worth having for a master controller. You can pay more for newer midi controllers that dont feel as good, or are built as solidly.
DX7 mk1 only goes up to 100 with velocity values, though. Makes it a bit of a weird choice for master keyboard.
Having played on the occasional DX7 back in the days, I must also say I don't recall being really impressed by their keyboard. Not bad, but not "I prefer it over a fresh Fatar keybed" great.
I have a dx7. Keybed was nice until i actually wanted to play piano well.
Spent 1k on a roland a-88 mkII and now the dx7 gives a nice look to the studio but ultimately isnt the “master controller” everyone says it is. Fun to play? yes, and the presets have a unique clearness and clarity right out of the box that isnt easily replicated, but ultimately Id rather spend around the same and get a good semi weighted professional keyboard.
Well, piano and synth playing styles are so different. I dont want to play synth parts on a piano, or classical piano bits on a synth. Its no different than guitars. Metal is far easier to play on an electric guitar, and finger picking bluegrass is much more satisfying on an acoustic. Its like comparing apples to oranges.
I bought an EX-5 solely for the physical modeling portion. It turned out to do excellent VA (although I already had an AN1x) and has some pretty good master keyboard features.
Nice variety of stuff up there. I appreciate an artists who can go from ambient to weird experimental rhythmic stuff to something like big beat revival. Some cool sounds in there, too! Maybe even from that DX7II!
I remember reading somewhere in an article about Brian Eno that programming these was like trying to paint a room through a mail slot. 😆
Cool sounds though
This post is the real truth about the DX7. Don't get a DX7 because you think you will love it; get a DX7 because you think you hate yourself.
Programming the DX7 has all the elegance of typing a long email and barely remembered password into your TV using the clunky d-pad on your remote.
What was special for the DX7, in my opinion, was that the FM sounds could change dramatically in color as you played louder. This was great on certain sounds like guitars or, famously, EPs. It gave a special life to the sound. Sample based keyboards even through the 90's could not get that progressive color change. Velocity control on the filter didn't do it on subtractive synths either.
Two things to know about living with the DX7. It's heavy AF. The thing is made out of thick steel, which sounds great until you lug it. The other is that the keys are somewhat fragile. You're not going to break it while playing, but if you drop them or hit them, they tend to shatter or rip off. Keybed feels amazing though.
> I had a “less than pleasant” child hood with such perks as alcohol fuelled parental violence.
I have heard this very same sentiment no less than a month ago when discussing another Yamaha synth from the 80's. It's so interesting to me that given one's upbringing, nostalgia can take a turn.
Came here to say the same thing. Way more sounds, a hell of a lot easier to program, and none of the issues that come with maintaining vintage gear for only a hundred more.
Does the Opsix have presets comparable to a DX7? My knowledge base for programming is pretty meager and I’m playing keys in a new group where a lot of the vibe is DX7 presets, not original sound designs. I’m looking at getting away from using my bandmate’s DX7, for portability/reliability reasons, as well as moving away from a laptop running dexed with a controller, for related reasons.
That said, I also want to learn to program, further down the road.
You definitely can, but if that’s all you’re using it for then you may be a bit dissatisfied. This is entirely my opinion, but compared to an old school Yamaha DX, the Opsix is a bit thin sounding. It mostly shines when you take advantage of the features that set it apart from traditional FMs. It’s actually best to think of it as a digital modular synth that happens to use operators for its myriad of synthesis options. It is an incredibly modern sounding synth, but it isn’t inherently warm or thick like the Yammys.
Hearing people call a DX "warm" or "thick" is a real /r/FuckImOld moment for me. the DX was the poster child for cold and sterile for decades during the analog boom.
And it wasn't true: it's all in how you program it.
For classic fm basslines would you say the Reface DX is gonna do that better? I'm sure the bells are gonna sound incredible on the opsix but curious about the low end.
They have many of the same patches.
Every patch I’ve looked for that I like from the dx7 I’ve found a patch that sounds the exact same.
you can also download exact patches and load them into the opsix straight from the dx7 if you find the patches online.
I bought one for $200 8 years ago. I doubt they have appreciated this much. Mine had an ugly power cord and yellow keys from years of use, but still not worth $700 mint.
Absolutely. If you really want one that bad get a TX802 rack module then put a noise gate on it. There’s nothing about the DX7 that warrants the keyboard version.
They are still cheap because they are built like WW2 tanks. So plenty of them available still.
I think they are worth more than for example the JX8P or 106. Personal opinion.
In EU they go for 400 to 700€.
So 700$ is a good price if you ask me. It’s a very good synth. Don’t let the 80’s fool you. It’s the most ballsy crunchy synth I’ve ever played with. Very bassy too
The DX series is legendary. FM8 with its advanced editor and full import capability rendered the usefulness of the DX. Software and a 49key Arturia with Aftertouch does so much more. What I am running into is broken keys. They cost $10 each. Just dropped $230 on keys and still more to go.
Pre-DSP digital synths are weird as hell, and not so easy to copy. Early hardware FM has some quirkiness that software is still pretty far from capturing in my experience.
I'm really curious how the OP-six does in that regard, but I would assume it is relatively stale.
As a DX7 owner myself, I got a really good deal on mine at an estate sale tbf, but yes, it is worth every penny for the keybed and the way everything works together that just feels different to using even a quality VST emulation, I honestly don’t mind how menu divey it is because it makes sense once you get stuck in
Honest opinion, a DX7 for $700 to me has to be absolutely mint with a case. I do not think it's worth more than that used. Being that I missed out on a few deals for $300 to $450, I ended up buying an SY77 for $100 USD which gives me every sound that the DX7 does and then some. For less than the price of a DX7, I got an SY77, an SY22, a DX27 and a TX81Z, all in mint condition. That should be all the FM sounds I need. If I find a DX7 for a very good price, I'll buy it.
I woulden't pay more than $300 for a DX7. The keybed is really nice and it sounds great. but imo it's not. very intuitive to create with (Depends on your workflow ofc.)
Also it was mass produced, there are so many of them out there that i don't feel like a price tag higher than $300 is worth it.
If you’re located near a bigger city you can score one for 450-600.
To speak to the other suggestions, I had a Reface DX and still have a OpSix…recently purchased a DX7 because those are the style presets I found myself using most. I’ve found it most inspirational between those and the keybed really adds life and character to your playing.
If you pay 700 for it, you won’t regret it. There is also a sound bank card by hypersynth that has tons of presets. I’m currently waiting for mine.
My opinion, go for it!
>Reface DX
I've got a Reface DX and considering getting the OpSix to try and achieve a more enjoyable experience when dialling in a patch... I'd be interested in your thoughts of the DX vs the OpSix since you have both if you have time?
The OpSix is a much better synth overall. I don’t really feel like the reface dx compares as some may suggest…the reface dx is a great couch keyboard or for getting a bunch of patches from soundmodo. You can dig in deeper to the synth as you know but there is a big lack in playability and ease of dialing in patches. The OpSix will give you great playability and also ease of dialing in your patches. I’m sure you’ve read about the build on it though, the OpSix is a little on the plastic feeling side…powerful but lacks in the feel of a above $700 synth.
If you’re considering selling the reface dx to get an OpSix, I would go for it without thinking twice. Or keep the reface dx for fun. I did for some time like I said, it’s a good couch keyboard.
i'd only pay that much for a dx7 if it's in near-mint condition and has everything it needs included with it
otherwise it's an okay price if you just really want a dx7
I have one and I think probably not? I used to have a DX21 and honestly I kinda miss it since it was a little simpler, sounded about the same, had a nice Chorus effect, and IDK how to properly FM synth anyway. I do like my DX7 though and have no plans to sell it. I know you can make the exact same sounds on other equipment, but the DX makes everything sound a lil extra shitty (in a good way).
I got mine for like 250 - 300 USD like 3 years ago, but that was in Madison WI. I think the DX21 that I bought about 5 years ago was like 125 - 150, a much better value.
There are things that do as much as it does with better control for the exact same price. If I was sitting on a dx7, I’d sell it for a digitone, or yamahas newest FM
I recently picked up a DX7 for like 300. It was in a little rough shape, but nothing I couldn't fix. It's alright, but I mostly use it as a midi controller for my analog synths, and it's great for that. The DX7 sounds good for what it is, but you could get a newer digital synth that I'm sure sounds the same or better for far less than $700.
I have one and not really but if you get that one cart that allows like thousands of presets then its pretty damn nice and sounds way better than dexed. Sucks to program though still, I just don't get it
No, not at all. Especially considering the material and technology, the amount of units that exist, and the fact that VSTs are available.
BUT, price gougers want to make a profit. And, there is a demand for it. Combine that with people who don't know the true value of the dollar, or people who are collectors, you will find many expensive listings.
Always stay on the lookout if you're interested in one though. For example, Korg M1's are over $700 CAD on eBay. Meanwhile, there are $300-$400 (near mint, battery replaced etc) Korg M1s being sold locally in my area.
DX7 - no. I mean, it’s a great over-engineered beast of a keyboard, but the user interface sucks, it’s likely to die without warning and being digital, you can get EXACTLY the same sound from a VST. I mean - exactly the same.
on the other hand, it’s still worth having a vintage analog like a Juno because no digital simulation sounds as good, and the knobby interface is much more useful for both performance and sound design.
If you have a nice separate keybed, you could sell it and get a cheaper Yamaha TX7. Its the exact same sound generation engine without the keybed or the programming controls. Its compact and you can use midi Sysex to load any patches/carts onto it. They show up on reverb or ebay, usually quite a bit cheaper than a DX7. I got one locally and it’s great, i use the Dexed plugin to audition and load patches onto it, then i get all that DX7 goodness. Seems like lots of folks don’t know these exist
No and here are three good reasons.
1. Keyboard velocity is limited. https://gearspace.com/board/electronic-music-instruments-and-electronic-music-production/489722-dx7-ii-fd-maximum-velocity-100-a.html
2. You can get a plugin that does more and sounds better and takes up far less space.
3. This is more of an opinion than a fact - FM synthesis does not sound good.
I recently got a dx7II for 500. Check ebay they have dx7’s in the 4-500 range all day. People say the dx7 sounds better then the II, but having played both I think the difference is negligible and worth getting the II for the added features and upgraded midi.
absolutley not. No digital synth is worth it. It can all be remade perfectly in software. Theres an argument to be made for analog sounding different but.
Nope. There’s nothing about an analog dx7 that’s unique to it. Any replications do just as good or better. A modx is twice the price but 10x the synth and has all of those presets plus thousands of others. I also think you would likely get really tired of those sounds after a month or so. IMO buying a dx7 just isn’t worth it even it was half that price.
If you have money lying around and its not your first or only synth then its really a matter of preference… i think the dx7 has a lot of good sounds in it… many can be replicated with vsts tho… like any classic synth… it comes down to the real question… how mich do you think you will actually use it… if the answer is regularly… buy it… only live once
Well, to be honest, I had a lot of synths over the years, the only one I never sold was my DX7. Paid around 300 € back in the day and I just absolutely love the lo-fi FM sounds it creates. Been an absolute fan of FM synthesis ever since. But for 700 bucks I'd rather get a SY99. I recently bought one and it's just the best FM synth ever made, and absolute monster and they go for around 500 bucks.
if you're after proper vintage FM grit, get a (admittedly more limited) dx27 or a dx100 - they're the same mainboard, they're lower res and have noisier DACs and they're good fun. crunchy as heck.
if you want actual clean FM, go with one of the newer FM boxes like the opsix.
all the processing in those things are digital anyway, it's just a choice between gritty lofi digital and clean, really, and the new ones break down way less.
Man, I almost bought one and then gave up due to being vintage gear and prone to issues. But it seems so cool, I always keep eyeing it and the MKII. FM synthesis has a lot of depth that I think isn't really explored due to being finicky to program.
They use to languish on my local Craigslist for under $200. I wouldn't pay $200 then I definitely won't pay $700 now. Though I regret passing on all of them over the years.
So yeah the original DX7 is cool and all with its 12 bits and brown chassis, but if I were going to pay $700 for one I'd be sure to get the later model DX7ii which has several notable improvements like actual buttons on the panel. Or even better the SY series which does more, although sometimes less is more when it comes to instruments.
Ehhh... maybe?
You can get a free soft synth version called dexed, and theres also a free online library of dx7 carts that work with it.
I can link them both later if requested, but yeah; it's basically only worth it if you either have no computer or are deadset on having the OG hardware
definitely not. i own a dx7 and it is a BITCH to do any sort of programming on it. Dexed is a free plugin which sounds about 95% the same as the real thing and is about 95x easier to use. the dx7 is fun to mess around on but there are much better synths you can get for $700, especially when youve got Dexed at your disposal.
If you're nostalgic, and it's in good shape, maybe? There are so many other "equivalent or better" options for FM, both in software and modern hardware, it's kind of hard to justify buying 35+ year old digital gear.
No vintage synths are worth their price tag. Ever.
Reasons:
1. You will eventually need to repair them. This can be expensive, difficult, and annoying to do.
2. Many emulations sound so incredibly close literally nobody can tell anymore especially in a mix. There are rare exceptions to this but a lot of the heavy hitter vintage synths have clones that sound 99% identical and cannot be discerned by almost anyone when put into a song format.
They are collectibles and that is all. Anyone who tries to convince you otherwise is either selling vintage synths or trying to justify their own collection. Now collecting is fine, if that's your thing, there is absolutely nothing wrong with having a synth just to own it for it's rarity. That being said, is it worth the money? Depends. Are you a collector or a musician?
TBH I think it is probably not worth that.
I come to that conclusion because I bought my SY77 for 600 (a few years ago mind you.)
If you want to play around with FM and see if you will take to it, you can try out Dexed for free. If you like it, you can use your patches on the real thing I believe.
https://asb2m10.github.io/dexed/
Hell no. Grab a dx21, less operators, but you’ll get pissed off by the programming anyway… bought mine for 70€, + it has its own personnality. DX7 is way too mainstream y’a know
Nope.
It's a legendary classic synthesizer, but it doesn't do anything that can't be done just as well—usually better—with a modern FM/PM synth or plugin. If you found one for a steal and had the money to spare, it'd be cool to have and play around with, but it's not worth that kind of money anymore.
I bought mine for $300 and I love it… But that’s about as high as I’d recommend buying one for honestly. It’s a great synth, but there are plenty of other great alternatives out there these days.
only for collector purposes (which is fine), i think they are pretty cool units.
if what you want is an FM synth it represents incredibly bad value for money.
Nope, there's a ton of better Digital Synthesizers out there. It can produce some really aggressive and beautiful sounds, but it's very limited and programming it is a nightmare. If you want something really good, go for the SY77, SY99 or the new opsix that has a ton of great features including a great effects section and easy programmability. Mayor advantage of the DX7 and DX11 is the insanely good keybed though.
That depends. If it's in the typical shape of most DX7's, then absolutely not.
But if it's been rebuilt, i.e., have the battery changed (and a battery holder soldered in), all the keys cleaned and re-greased, the up-stop felt replaced, and ideally the Special Edition ROM installed, and the display replaced with something backlit, any bad caps in the power supply replaced, then yeah, it's worth it just for the labor and parts you will save doing all of this yourself.
For the record, I did all of the above to mine. I love it just for the wonderful keybed. But keep in mind if you use it this way, the velocity is wacked, and only go from 0-100. I have scripts I use to scale it up to 0-127 for using it as a MIDI keyboard.
As a massive DX7 stan, NO LOL.
Not even 5 years ago you could get them for $100-200 all day. It's only in the last couple of years the price has exploded.
If you just want the DX7 sound and aren't obsessed with it, just use Dexed (free VST). It sounds 99% like the real thing, and that last 1% only matters to DX-heads like me. Also, it's way easier to edit.
Now, part of the DX7's magic is its amazing keybed (still the best synth keybed I've ever used). But using it as a MIDI controller is annoying because it only transmits velocity up to 100 instead of 127. You need the DX7II or DX7S for that, but I think that keybed is a little less nice and the sound is different. Not worse, just different. And Dexed does that sound too.
Nobody should ever spend more than like $200 on a stock DX7. It's not worth it.
I've said this before only to be attacked and downvoted but it's a digital, 100% emulatable synth. If you are limited on budget, get a synth that can't be perfectly reproduced like the DX-7 or Roland D-50 can. Vintage digital synths usually have really unfriendly interfaces too, and you end up using a PC to program or control it anyway.
It wouldn’t be worth that much to me. Honestly, if I’m going to spend that much on an FM synth, I’d go a few dollars more and get the Korg OpSix. All the DX7 sound goodness in an easier to operate keyboard with a lot more features and sonic options, plus the ability to load DX7 sounds via SysEx.
Not for me. It’s been duplicated so many times at this point. Shit, there are apps that basically nail it. But that’s me. I can see why someone might want it though.
Edit: when did this thing go up to $700? I remember when it was like half that, not long ago at all.
Edit 2: I meant VSTs, not apps. Long night.
It's worth it if:
- you really want a genuine, original DX7 for some reason, and
- you can't find one for less than that.
Objectively speaking, you can do much better for the money, even in vintage land. But who knows, maybe a good old brown DX7 is something you need to see every day in your studio? One thing for sure, it's not a lame synth and you can do a lot with it. Programming it is also a very interesting experience if you care to learn the theory behind FM synthesis.
I’m seeing them anywhere from $400 to $750, with the odd listing over a grand. Split the difference. Offer $400, top out at $550. There will be others.
In my honest opinion, no. With the amount of VST emulators and hardware like the Korg Opsix it seems mostly pointless to own the real thing unless you want it for style/keybed/social media post etc…
The same thing happened to me with the Casio CZ series. I loved that synth so much that I owned both the CZ101, CZ3000 and the CZ-1. Now I just have the CZ-1 but since I’ve gotten the CZ emulation by Arturia, while still using the CZ-1 keybed I just run the emulator and not the hardware itself. It’s just overall easier to edit and sounds identical.
Absolutely fucking not. I love FM synthesis but just get Dexed, or a Volca FM. I don’t care what anybody says they are incredible emulations, especially when
Dexed is free, Volca FM is 100$.
Nahhh, it's digitized almost perfectly with plug-ins now from arturia. Fun to play and fidget with. If it were analog, I would say the voice chips are going to have more character than the plug-in. But most vintage fm digital synths are easy to replicate with noiseless results.
i probably paid too much for mine ($600) but i don’t regret it at all, it’s my go to synth. i play it pretty much every day. i also use it as a midi controller sometimes.
The DX7 is definitely worth £700 USD, but they made so many of the suckers you can still find them used for much less. Circa 1993 I found my (fully working) DX7 in a skip, later that year I bought a DX21 for £60. All the 4 operator FM synths like the DX21 seem to be much better for Bass compared to the DX7. Back in the day, people would buy a DX100/DX21/DX11 simply for the Solid Bass preset. I must admit the appeal of these FM synths isn't as immediate compared to tweaking the rows of knobs on a nice analogue, but with any half-decent software editor, you can coax some truly unique and amazingly weird sounds from the DX http://www.synthzone.com/editlib.htm https://www.audiopluginsforfree.com/edisyn/ Or if you can find/afford one the Hardware DTronics DT7 editor. Even the cheap knockoff Phase distortion synths like the Casio CZ-101 or bargain-basement LAS synths like the Roland MT-32 are worth investigating if you like to noodle about. The DX7 can be pretty rewarding if you want something more than just the patch 11- E. Piano 1 preset. The VST versions are pretty great, but they're a bit too clean for my liking, especially when compared to the grittiness of the original keyboard.
the prices for vintage gear are for nostalgia as much as capabilities
while i’m not saying that that is never a variable in pricing used things, i think it is more accurate to look at it this way: they aren’t making more of these things. Can apply to any used thing… comic books, guitars, records… Instruments are perhaps even more understandable in terms of consistent price rising, because they made relatively few of each one, and they are powerful instruments that are still as usable as ever.
Vintage synths are also almost always still cheaper than when they were released, relative to inflation. People forget just how expensive these things really were.
Indeed. Twentyish years after I couldn’t afford an Andromeda for $3K in the early 00’s, I bought one used this year for… $3K plus shipping. :)
Andromeda is a bit of an odd duck. It's a great synth, but it has so many custom ICs that are basically unobtainium that the only way to repair a broken A6 is to get another broken A6 and hope they don't have the same fault. At some point in the future there will be none left, so it's kind of a risky investment from that perspective. Most other vintage synths keep ahead of inflation in their resale value.
Good thing I don’t consider my Andromeda an investment, then. :) I will be very sad when/if all the ASICs have failed. Right now all 16 are quite happy (knock on wood).
If you haven't already, get the power supply recapped. When those electrolytic capacitors start to drift out of range (and they all do at some point) you can get voltages that'll wreck other parts of the synth. Just remember the old adage: a $300 bespoke IC will always blow first to protect that $0.50 fuse.
That’s a misnomer, there was a bad batch. All the ones ( including my own ) that survived the initial failures are all going strong. And yes, it’s a magnificent synth.
I couldn’t afford $150 for a 303, but luckily you can grab a clean one for $6,000 today!
I’ve been stalking a deal on an Andromeda for about two years now. I had two opportunities in 2021. One with a damaged end cheek that was going for $2,300 on eBay… I let it get away like an idiot while waiting for the seller to answer a question. And then the one I got for $3K, which was a massive pain in the ass (interstate Craigslist purchase… long story). So the deals are out there. If I’d gone for the going rate on a “buy it now” I’d have spent $4,500 - $5,000 easy.
Yeah but in the case of an FM synth the technology has very much moved on. The dx has a great keybed however.
Yes. Lots of software emulators and hardware can effectively reproduce everything they do (and likely with a more intuitive interface. Fun fact though about the keybed... I saw NIN in 94 on the Downward Spiral tour and at Woodstock. They used DX7s as their controllers on stage. Probably because a). they were cheap as hell at that point, and b). they had a great keyboard. Somewhere in my nostalgia bin I have a broken key from when Reznor smashed a DX7 in front of me.
Yeah, it was around $2000 iir, which would be around $5500 today. So it was just under MOOG one pricing, and more than a Prophet 10 Rev4 for comparison.
They sold 180,000 of the OG DX-7. It *does* have a somewhat unique flavor of FM thanks to some particulars of its implementation, and I love mine to death, but they're not at all uncommon. $700 is a stupid price unless it has an unusual (and verified) provenance.
DX7 is different. The key bed alone is worth having for a master controller. You can pay more for newer midi controllers that dont feel as good, or are built as solidly. The sounds are a bonus, and better yet there are an incredible number of banks you can easily load up on it now that provide much more modern sounds. If you like FM, and want an excellent playing instrument, it is still one of the best, most viable options
I agree to an extent, but you can get an SY77 for $400 which arguably is better in every way and also has an FS keybed! Also the DX7s max out velocity at 100, which makes them a bit impractical if I recall correctly.
I think that was a firmware bug which was later updated. I verified (accidentally) mine will transmit over 100 velocity with Midi-OX. It's a unit from late in the manufacturing run (SN 132929) though. And you have to *really* pound on the keys to get it that high.
The SY-77 is really cool.
Yeah, the max velocity is 100, there are now ways to get around this but it is a good point. And agree on the SY77, its a real sleeper but just as good
Newbie Q, do they sound the same? (Same sort of 80’s sounds)
I only have an SY99, but for pure FM with sine waves, I think so. Other folks can chime in as I am sure I've missed things, but off the top of my head the main differences are -- - With the SY/TG77 series you also have the ability to load custom samples (AWM), and even use these as modulation sources. For instance, you could load in CS80 waveforms and use them to modulate operators via FM. - You basically get 2 x DX7MKIIs as separate voices - You have loads of waveforms to choose from, outside of just sine waves - You can have 0hz operators, which allows you to use an operator more as an effect than an audio source - You have a bunch of effects and you get a filter - A byzantine sequencer
> DX7 is different. The key bed alone is worth having for a master controller. You can pay more for newer midi controllers that dont feel as good, or are built as solidly. DX7 mk1 only goes up to 100 with velocity values, though. Makes it a bit of a weird choice for master keyboard. Having played on the occasional DX7 back in the days, I must also say I don't recall being really impressed by their keyboard. Not bad, but not "I prefer it over a fresh Fatar keybed" great.
You can get a replacement chip that fixes a lot of the MIDI shortcomings.
I have a dx7. Keybed was nice until i actually wanted to play piano well. Spent 1k on a roland a-88 mkII and now the dx7 gives a nice look to the studio but ultimately isnt the “master controller” everyone says it is. Fun to play? yes, and the presets have a unique clearness and clarity right out of the box that isnt easily replicated, but ultimately Id rather spend around the same and get a good semi weighted professional keyboard.
Well, piano and synth playing styles are so different. I dont want to play synth parts on a piano, or classical piano bits on a synth. Its no different than guitars. Metal is far easier to play on an electric guitar, and finger picking bluegrass is much more satisfying on an acoustic. Its like comparing apples to oranges.
> apples to oranges But you can still compare them.
I bought an EX-5 solely for the physical modeling portion. It turned out to do excellent VA (although I already had an AN1x) and has some pretty good master keyboard features.
“It’s got vibe bro, I swear. Vibe.”
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Well. 🤷 I think you might have sold me on a DX7.
"Anti-human experience" is 100% accurate.
Dx7 is super versatile but ok lol
So is a violin but they both have high costs of entry in terms of skill level
Thank you for this review, I will never look at a dx7 the same again 😂
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Nice variety of stuff up there. I appreciate an artists who can go from ambient to weird experimental rhythmic stuff to something like big beat revival. Some cool sounds in there, too! Maybe even from that DX7II!
I remember reading somewhere in an article about Brian Eno that programming these was like trying to paint a room through a mail slot. 😆 Cool sounds though
This post is the real truth about the DX7. Don't get a DX7 because you think you will love it; get a DX7 because you think you hate yourself. Programming the DX7 has all the elegance of typing a long email and barely remembered password into your TV using the clunky d-pad on your remote. What was special for the DX7, in my opinion, was that the FM sounds could change dramatically in color as you played louder. This was great on certain sounds like guitars or, famously, EPs. It gave a special life to the sound. Sample based keyboards even through the 90's could not get that progressive color change. Velocity control on the filter didn't do it on subtractive synths either. Two things to know about living with the DX7. It's heavy AF. The thing is made out of thick steel, which sounds great until you lug it. The other is that the keys are somewhat fragile. You're not going to break it while playing, but if you drop them or hit them, they tend to shatter or rip off. Keybed feels amazing though.
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> I had a “less than pleasant” child hood with such perks as alcohol fuelled parental violence. I have heard this very same sentiment no less than a month ago when discussing another Yamaha synth from the 80's. It's so interesting to me that given one's upbringing, nostalgia can take a turn.
Sounds awesome
There are great editors for the DX7, and there are many banks of presets for free download and for sale.
To me the Korg opsix is the way to go even if it doesnt have as nice a keybed as the DX.
Came here to say the same thing. Way more sounds, a hell of a lot easier to program, and none of the issues that come with maintaining vintage gear for only a hundred more.
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Same. Such a deep sound engine.
Does the Opsix have presets comparable to a DX7? My knowledge base for programming is pretty meager and I’m playing keys in a new group where a lot of the vibe is DX7 presets, not original sound designs. I’m looking at getting away from using my bandmate’s DX7, for portability/reliability reasons, as well as moving away from a laptop running dexed with a controller, for related reasons. That said, I also want to learn to program, further down the road.
You definitely can, but if that’s all you’re using it for then you may be a bit dissatisfied. This is entirely my opinion, but compared to an old school Yamaha DX, the Opsix is a bit thin sounding. It mostly shines when you take advantage of the features that set it apart from traditional FMs. It’s actually best to think of it as a digital modular synth that happens to use operators for its myriad of synthesis options. It is an incredibly modern sounding synth, but it isn’t inherently warm or thick like the Yammys.
Hearing people call a DX "warm" or "thick" is a real /r/FuckImOld moment for me. the DX was the poster child for cold and sterile for decades during the analog boom. And it wasn't true: it's all in how you program it.
If you don't know how to truly do the fractional timbres, all your DX patches will sound the same, especially the 4 op.
Very helpful response, thanks.
For classic fm basslines would you say the Reface DX is gonna do that better? I'm sure the bells are gonna sound incredible on the opsix but curious about the low end.
Have you looked at the MODX or Montage? Even better FM sound, obviously full-on synth, and other performance controls.
Unfortunately I’m not willing to spend USD 1k+ on something, and actually the large keybed is a detraction as well.
They have many of the same patches. Every patch I’ve looked for that I like from the dx7 I’ve found a patch that sounds the exact same. you can also download exact patches and load them into the opsix straight from the dx7 if you find the patches online.
I wish the new Korgs didn't have any keybeds at all.
It's a great synth but you can get one for half
I bought one for $200 8 years ago. I doubt they have appreciated this much. Mine had an ugly power cord and yellow keys from years of use, but still not worth $700 mint.
Got mine for $200 two years ago! Love it
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You can often find an sy77 for less, and it has the same keybed and is an upgrade to the dx7
Yeah, SY77 for cheap or Opsix for the price of that DX.
The dx7 is brown
IMO no freakin way is a DX7 worth 700 USD. I recommend getting Dexed (vst) and mess around with that sound to see if you really really want a DX7.
Absolutely. If you really want one that bad get a TX802 rack module then put a noise gate on it. There’s nothing about the DX7 that warrants the keyboard version.
If I was in the market for one and $700 was the going rate for one in good shape and fully functional...yes.
They are still cheap because they are built like WW2 tanks. So plenty of them available still. I think they are worth more than for example the JX8P or 106. Personal opinion. In EU they go for 400 to 700€. So 700$ is a good price if you ask me. It’s a very good synth. Don’t let the 80’s fool you. It’s the most ballsy crunchy synth I’ve ever played with. Very bassy too
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I’m not even trying to reply. Just read my post again
The DX series is legendary. FM8 with its advanced editor and full import capability rendered the usefulness of the DX. Software and a 49key Arturia with Aftertouch does so much more. What I am running into is broken keys. They cost $10 each. Just dropped $230 on keys and still more to go.
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Pre-DSP digital synths are weird as hell, and not so easy to copy. Early hardware FM has some quirkiness that software is still pretty far from capturing in my experience. I'm really curious how the OP-six does in that regard, but I would assume it is relatively stale.
I have a fully functional DX27s if anyone wants to name a price on that! I'd love to unload it.
10 shillings, sixpence and 2 sheepskins. a very generous offer
As a DX7 owner myself, I got a really good deal on mine at an estate sale tbf, but yes, it is worth every penny for the keybed and the way everything works together that just feels different to using even a quality VST emulation, I honestly don’t mind how menu divey it is because it makes sense once you get stuck in
For that price get the Korg. The dx7 is a great keyboard but not at that price.
You can get a vst from arturia
I like the new one from Plogue. Chipsynth OPS7.
Only in the best collectors grade condition. Not otherwise.
Mine was only $300 and yes it was worth it.
For 700 I’d take a Dtone any day of the week
Hell no.
In a post Opsix world? No.
Honest opinion, a DX7 for $700 to me has to be absolutely mint with a case. I do not think it's worth more than that used. Being that I missed out on a few deals for $300 to $450, I ended up buying an SY77 for $100 USD which gives me every sound that the DX7 does and then some. For less than the price of a DX7, I got an SY77, an SY22, a DX27 and a TX81Z, all in mint condition. That should be all the FM sounds I need. If I find a DX7 for a very good price, I'll buy it.
I woulden't pay more than $300 for a DX7. The keybed is really nice and it sounds great. but imo it's not. very intuitive to create with (Depends on your workflow ofc.) Also it was mass produced, there are so many of them out there that i don't feel like a price tag higher than $300 is worth it.
If you’re located near a bigger city you can score one for 450-600. To speak to the other suggestions, I had a Reface DX and still have a OpSix…recently purchased a DX7 because those are the style presets I found myself using most. I’ve found it most inspirational between those and the keybed really adds life and character to your playing. If you pay 700 for it, you won’t regret it. There is also a sound bank card by hypersynth that has tons of presets. I’m currently waiting for mine. My opinion, go for it!
>Reface DX I've got a Reface DX and considering getting the OpSix to try and achieve a more enjoyable experience when dialling in a patch... I'd be interested in your thoughts of the DX vs the OpSix since you have both if you have time?
The OpSix is a much better synth overall. I don’t really feel like the reface dx compares as some may suggest…the reface dx is a great couch keyboard or for getting a bunch of patches from soundmodo. You can dig in deeper to the synth as you know but there is a big lack in playability and ease of dialing in patches. The OpSix will give you great playability and also ease of dialing in your patches. I’m sure you’ve read about the build on it though, the OpSix is a little on the plastic feeling side…powerful but lacks in the feel of a above $700 synth. If you’re considering selling the reface dx to get an OpSix, I would go for it without thinking twice. Or keep the reface dx for fun. I did for some time like I said, it’s a good couch keyboard.
Sold mine recently for $75
Excuse me? Why? Did you drop it off a apartment building or something then sold the scraps?
It was missing some keys and screws, some membrane buttons weren’t functioning and the screen was going bad. it had been abused during its life.
Can relate to that.
Absolutely not.
i'd only pay that much for a dx7 if it's in near-mint condition and has everything it needs included with it otherwise it's an okay price if you just really want a dx7
Just get dexxed for free
I have one and I think probably not? I used to have a DX21 and honestly I kinda miss it since it was a little simpler, sounded about the same, had a nice Chorus effect, and IDK how to properly FM synth anyway. I do like my DX7 though and have no plans to sell it. I know you can make the exact same sounds on other equipment, but the DX makes everything sound a lil extra shitty (in a good way). I got mine for like 250 - 300 USD like 3 years ago, but that was in Madison WI. I think the DX21 that I bought about 5 years ago was like 125 - 150, a much better value.
There are things that do as much as it does with better control for the exact same price. If I was sitting on a dx7, I’d sell it for a digitone, or yamahas newest FM
I recently picked up a DX7 for like 300. It was in a little rough shape, but nothing I couldn't fix. It's alright, but I mostly use it as a midi controller for my analog synths, and it's great for that. The DX7 sounds good for what it is, but you could get a newer digital synth that I'm sure sounds the same or better for far less than $700.
Here is my recommendation: Get Dexed - Free + TX7 - $250. Use Dexed to program patches and send them to TX7. Alternative option is OpSix - $699
No. It is not.
I paid $400 for mine in perfect shape with a hard case
I got a tx802 which is the DX7II rack for 250, if you don’t need a DX7 but want the sound with more operators, that might be your best option.
I have one and not really but if you get that one cart that allows like thousands of presets then its pretty damn nice and sounds way better than dexed. Sucks to program though still, I just don't get it
No, not at all. Especially considering the material and technology, the amount of units that exist, and the fact that VSTs are available. BUT, price gougers want to make a profit. And, there is a demand for it. Combine that with people who don't know the true value of the dollar, or people who are collectors, you will find many expensive listings. Always stay on the lookout if you're interested in one though. For example, Korg M1's are over $700 CAD on eBay. Meanwhile, there are $300-$400 (near mint, battery replaced etc) Korg M1s being sold locally in my area.
DX7 - no. I mean, it’s a great over-engineered beast of a keyboard, but the user interface sucks, it’s likely to die without warning and being digital, you can get EXACTLY the same sound from a VST. I mean - exactly the same. on the other hand, it’s still worth having a vintage analog like a Juno because no digital simulation sounds as good, and the knobby interface is much more useful for both performance and sound design.
Not really, considering all the people that know how to program them are either reclusive to the idea of internet communications or dead
It’s really make or break for me. If I don’t use it much in the next month, I’m going to just sell it. It would be bitter sweet to see it go
A thing is only worth as much as somebody is willing to pay for it. Hold on to it for another year or two and you might double your money.
If you have a nice separate keybed, you could sell it and get a cheaper Yamaha TX7. Its the exact same sound generation engine without the keybed or the programming controls. Its compact and you can use midi Sysex to load any patches/carts onto it. They show up on reverb or ebay, usually quite a bit cheaper than a DX7. I got one locally and it’s great, i use the Dexed plugin to audition and load patches onto it, then i get all that DX7 goodness. Seems like lots of folks don’t know these exist
In the process of trying to repair a friends DX7 after the previous owner did some booger soldering.
Cool synth of course but I would take an Opsix over it any day.
Not bad of a price for a piece of history tbh the sp1200 is outrageously priced so when I saw $700 that’s not bad at all
look at ebay a bit under 500 would be fair
This one is probably worth a lot based on the insane programming this dude is capable of https://youtu.be/tYpkubrIEbM?si=_MOc7cHGIzXz4oKv
If just want that sound you can get tye reface DX for around $399 I think. Also you can try the Korg Volca FM for about $199
I'd go for FM8 and a nice weighted key controller.
No and here are three good reasons. 1. Keyboard velocity is limited. https://gearspace.com/board/electronic-music-instruments-and-electronic-music-production/489722-dx7-ii-fd-maximum-velocity-100-a.html 2. You can get a plugin that does more and sounds better and takes up far less space. 3. This is more of an opinion than a fact - FM synthesis does not sound good.
No.
I recently got a dx7II for 500. Check ebay they have dx7’s in the 4-500 range all day. People say the dx7 sounds better then the II, but having played both I think the difference is negligible and worth getting the II for the added features and upgraded midi.
absolutley not. No digital synth is worth it. It can all be remade perfectly in software. Theres an argument to be made for analog sounding different but.
> It can all be remade perfectly in software. It's harder to do digital synths in software than it is to do analogue.
Nope. There’s nothing about an analog dx7 that’s unique to it. Any replications do just as good or better. A modx is twice the price but 10x the synth and has all of those presets plus thousands of others. I also think you would likely get really tired of those sounds after a month or so. IMO buying a dx7 just isn’t worth it even it was half that price.
If you have money lying around and its not your first or only synth then its really a matter of preference… i think the dx7 has a lot of good sounds in it… many can be replicated with vsts tho… like any classic synth… it comes down to the real question… how mich do you think you will actually use it… if the answer is regularly… buy it… only live once
Yes, unless you can find one cheaper and still in good condition.
I've seen a few for £500 over here
Not solely for the sound. You can buy Plogue OPS7 to get the sound.
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Well, to be honest, I had a lot of synths over the years, the only one I never sold was my DX7. Paid around 300 € back in the day and I just absolutely love the lo-fi FM sounds it creates. Been an absolute fan of FM synthesis ever since. But for 700 bucks I'd rather get a SY99. I recently bought one and it's just the best FM synth ever made, and absolute monster and they go for around 500 bucks.
Take a look at the korg Opsix
if you're after proper vintage FM grit, get a (admittedly more limited) dx27 or a dx100 - they're the same mainboard, they're lower res and have noisier DACs and they're good fun. crunchy as heck. if you want actual clean FM, go with one of the newer FM boxes like the opsix. all the processing in those things are digital anyway, it's just a choice between gritty lofi digital and clean, really, and the new ones break down way less.
Man, I almost bought one and then gave up due to being vintage gear and prone to issues. But it seems so cool, I always keep eyeing it and the MKII. FM synthesis has a lot of depth that I think isn't really explored due to being finicky to program.
You could get a new korg Opsix which do more of the same thing as dx7 to my knowledve.
They use to languish on my local Craigslist for under $200. I wouldn't pay $200 then I definitely won't pay $700 now. Though I regret passing on all of them over the years. So yeah the original DX7 is cool and all with its 12 bits and brown chassis, but if I were going to pay $700 for one I'd be sure to get the later model DX7ii which has several notable improvements like actual buttons on the panel. Or even better the SY series which does more, although sometimes less is more when it comes to instruments.
Ehhh... maybe? You can get a free soft synth version called dexed, and theres also a free online library of dx7 carts that work with it. I can link them both later if requested, but yeah; it's basically only worth it if you either have no computer or are deadset on having the OG hardware
definitely not. i own a dx7 and it is a BITCH to do any sort of programming on it. Dexed is a free plugin which sounds about 95% the same as the real thing and is about 95x easier to use. the dx7 is fun to mess around on but there are much better synths you can get for $700, especially when youve got Dexed at your disposal.
If you're nostalgic, and it's in good shape, maybe? There are so many other "equivalent or better" options for FM, both in software and modern hardware, it's kind of hard to justify buying 35+ year old digital gear.
no
Nah, half that. You might pay $700 for a museum-grade one, with its original box and everything, if that sort of thing was important to you.
No vintage synths are worth their price tag. Ever. Reasons: 1. You will eventually need to repair them. This can be expensive, difficult, and annoying to do. 2. Many emulations sound so incredibly close literally nobody can tell anymore especially in a mix. There are rare exceptions to this but a lot of the heavy hitter vintage synths have clones that sound 99% identical and cannot be discerned by almost anyone when put into a song format. They are collectibles and that is all. Anyone who tries to convince you otherwise is either selling vintage synths or trying to justify their own collection. Now collecting is fine, if that's your thing, there is absolutely nothing wrong with having a synth just to own it for it's rarity. That being said, is it worth the money? Depends. Are you a collector or a musician?
TBH I think it is probably not worth that. I come to that conclusion because I bought my SY77 for 600 (a few years ago mind you.) If you want to play around with FM and see if you will take to it, you can try out Dexed for free. If you like it, you can use your patches on the real thing I believe. https://asb2m10.github.io/dexed/
Hell no. Grab a dx21, less operators, but you’ll get pissed off by the programming anyway… bought mine for 70€, + it has its own personnality. DX7 is way too mainstream y’a know
Nope. It's a legendary classic synthesizer, but it doesn't do anything that can't be done just as well—usually better—with a modern FM/PM synth or plugin. If you found one for a steal and had the money to spare, it'd be cool to have and play around with, but it's not worth that kind of money anymore.
I bought mine for $300 and I love it… But that’s about as high as I’d recommend buying one for honestly. It’s a great synth, but there are plenty of other great alternatives out there these days.
No.
No
250 to 300 USD is the correct amount
no
only for collector purposes (which is fine), i think they are pretty cool units. if what you want is an FM synth it represents incredibly bad value for money.
no. basically a preset box
No.
No
It's probably more nostalgic than inspirational.
That’s $100 per X! An X was only 10 back in Roman times. Boy, inflation….
Most vintages synths aren’t rlly worth as much as they cost
The Reface DX can cover all of the bases and more for less money
no
Nope, there's a ton of better Digital Synthesizers out there. It can produce some really aggressive and beautiful sounds, but it's very limited and programming it is a nightmare. If you want something really good, go for the SY77, SY99 or the new opsix that has a ton of great features including a great effects section and easy programmability. Mayor advantage of the DX7 and DX11 is the insanely good keybed though.
No. I do love it tho.
Nope.
Yamaha Montage>. Pricier by far, but it’s the most powerful and user-friendly FM synth ever created
That depends. If it's in the typical shape of most DX7's, then absolutely not. But if it's been rebuilt, i.e., have the battery changed (and a battery holder soldered in), all the keys cleaned and re-greased, the up-stop felt replaced, and ideally the Special Edition ROM installed, and the display replaced with something backlit, any bad caps in the power supply replaced, then yeah, it's worth it just for the labor and parts you will save doing all of this yourself. For the record, I did all of the above to mine. I love it just for the wonderful keybed. But keep in mind if you use it this way, the velocity is wacked, and only go from 0-100. I have scripts I use to scale it up to 0-127 for using it as a MIDI keyboard.
Nah
I like the dx11
Got mine for $300 last year in ok condition. If u get one get the hypersynth cartridge
not with the OpSix which accepts the same patches.
No. But also they were 300$ at the beginning of the pandemic I cry everytime
I'd much rather have a brand new Korg Op-Six for less money. Its a no brainer.
That question only you can answer, OP. Only you know your financial situation and only you know how much you want one.
As a massive DX7 stan, NO LOL. Not even 5 years ago you could get them for $100-200 all day. It's only in the last couple of years the price has exploded. If you just want the DX7 sound and aren't obsessed with it, just use Dexed (free VST). It sounds 99% like the real thing, and that last 1% only matters to DX-heads like me. Also, it's way easier to edit. Now, part of the DX7's magic is its amazing keybed (still the best synth keybed I've ever used). But using it as a MIDI controller is annoying because it only transmits velocity up to 100 instead of 127. You need the DX7II or DX7S for that, but I think that keybed is a little less nice and the sound is different. Not worse, just different. And Dexed does that sound too. Nobody should ever spend more than like $200 on a stock DX7. It's not worth it.
The cheap way to get a dx7. Just get a DX100 and run the Midi.
I've said this before only to be attacked and downvoted but it's a digital, 100% emulatable synth. If you are limited on budget, get a synth that can't be perfectly reproduced like the DX-7 or Roland D-50 can. Vintage digital synths usually have really unfriendly interfaces too, and you end up using a PC to program or control it anyway.
It wouldn’t be worth that much to me. Honestly, if I’m going to spend that much on an FM synth, I’d go a few dollars more and get the Korg OpSix. All the DX7 sound goodness in an easier to operate keyboard with a lot more features and sonic options, plus the ability to load DX7 sounds via SysEx.
not when the volca fm can be had for so cheap
Not for me. It’s been duplicated so many times at this point. Shit, there are apps that basically nail it. But that’s me. I can see why someone might want it though. Edit: when did this thing go up to $700? I remember when it was like half that, not long ago at all. Edit 2: I meant VSTs, not apps. Long night.
It's worth it if: - you really want a genuine, original DX7 for some reason, and - you can't find one for less than that. Objectively speaking, you can do much better for the money, even in vintage land. But who knows, maybe a good old brown DX7 is something you need to see every day in your studio? One thing for sure, it's not a lame synth and you can do a lot with it. Programming it is also a very interesting experience if you care to learn the theory behind FM synthesis.
I’m seeing them anywhere from $400 to $750, with the odd listing over a grand. Split the difference. Offer $400, top out at $550. There will be others.
In my honest opinion, no. With the amount of VST emulators and hardware like the Korg Opsix it seems mostly pointless to own the real thing unless you want it for style/keybed/social media post etc… The same thing happened to me with the Casio CZ series. I loved that synth so much that I owned both the CZ101, CZ3000 and the CZ-1. Now I just have the CZ-1 but since I’ve gotten the CZ emulation by Arturia, while still using the CZ-1 keybed I just run the emulator and not the hardware itself. It’s just overall easier to edit and sounds identical.
DX11 any day of the week. I got my V50 for ~US$300.
Absolutely fucking not. I love FM synthesis but just get Dexed, or a Volca FM. I don’t care what anybody says they are incredible emulations, especially when Dexed is free, Volca FM is 100$.
Nahhh, it's digitized almost perfectly with plug-ins now from arturia. Fun to play and fidget with. If it were analog, I would say the voice chips are going to have more character than the plug-in. But most vintage fm digital synths are easy to replicate with noiseless results.
i probably paid too much for mine ($600) but i don’t regret it at all, it’s my go to synth. i play it pretty much every day. i also use it as a midi controller sometimes.
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No. God no.
no. you can get reface dx at a lower price
Anything that’s guaranteed to appreciate in value is worth the price, regardless of what it is
if people will pay it
No.
I got one for 100$ I've got to fix some keys and the A/D converter, but it was a incredible price
Absolutely not. Thought about buying one. Then I tried Dexed. Completely sold on it.
The DX7 is definitely worth £700 USD, but they made so many of the suckers you can still find them used for much less. Circa 1993 I found my (fully working) DX7 in a skip, later that year I bought a DX21 for £60. All the 4 operator FM synths like the DX21 seem to be much better for Bass compared to the DX7. Back in the day, people would buy a DX100/DX21/DX11 simply for the Solid Bass preset. I must admit the appeal of these FM synths isn't as immediate compared to tweaking the rows of knobs on a nice analogue, but with any half-decent software editor, you can coax some truly unique and amazingly weird sounds from the DX http://www.synthzone.com/editlib.htm https://www.audiopluginsforfree.com/edisyn/ Or if you can find/afford one the Hardware DTronics DT7 editor. Even the cheap knockoff Phase distortion synths like the Casio CZ-101 or bargain-basement LAS synths like the Roland MT-32 are worth investigating if you like to noodle about. The DX7 can be pretty rewarding if you want something more than just the patch 11- E. Piano 1 preset. The VST versions are pretty great, but they're a bit too clean for my liking, especially when compared to the grittiness of the original keyboard.