First Impressions

At first glance, the Montage 8 Yamaha may seem daunting with its abundance of buttons and the addition of 88 keys, an upgrade from previous models in the Montage series. However, the keyboard’s design is well-organized, presenting a clean and elegant appearance. Yamaha’s attention to detail is evident in the keyboard’s craftsmanship, from the keys and buttons to the curves and edges, resulting in a visually appealing and premium-looking instrument.

With the multitude of buttons on the panel, it’s understandable to feel overwhelmed. Fortunately, using them is easier than you might expect. Once you power on the instrument and become acquainted with its functions, you’ll find it more intuitive to navigate and utilize the various buttons.

Located at the center of the keyboard is a relatively small display screen. It remains a perplexing trend that even 88-key synthesizers come with small screens despite ample space for larger displays. However, the compact and straightforward nature of the screen does not impede the keyboard’s performance. You can still access and explore the extensive features of the synthesizer through the screen and the accompanying buttons located on its sides.

Sounds

The performance of the Montage 8 Yamaha lives up to the high expectations, making the substantial price tag more justified once you experience it firsthand. The instrument’s elegant appearance is surpassed only by its exceptional performance.

The range of sounds available in this synthesizer is truly remarkable. The extensive selection caters to a wide variety of musical styles, ensuring that musicians with diverse skills can find inspiration and refine their craft. However, it’s when you actually hear the sounds produced by the Montage 8 that you’ll be truly captivated. The authenticity, richness, clarity, and overall quality of the sounds are extraordinary. While there are videos online attempting to showcase these sounds, their true impact can only be fully appreciated when heard live.

The organ sounds are just as impressive as the piano sounds, with the pipe organ reaching unparalleled levels of greatness. Describing the samples, articulations, and DSP/effects as impressive would be a gross understatement.

We could continue praising the superb quality of the sounds from this synthesizer, but words alone cannot do justice to their greatness. Yamaha has truly revolutionized the world of synthesizers with the Montage 8.

SuperKnob

The Montage 8 Yamaha boasts an array of features, and one standout highlight is the Unique SuperKnob feature.

The SuperKnob serves as a modern performance control interface, enabling simultaneous control of various effects. Working in conjunction with the Motion Control Synthesis Engine, it delivers exceptional results that are sure to astound you. This interface grants dynamic control over the FM-X and AWM2 sounds and effects, resulting in an electrifying live performance that will leave a lasting impression on your audience.

With the SuperKnob, you can blend different preconfigured effects, ranging from sweeping pans to FM fuzz and immersive EQ. In essence, the Motion Control Synthesis Engine and the SuperKnob make the Montage 8 an outstanding choice for captivating live performances.

Envelope Follower

The Envelope Follower is a powerful tool that allows you to convert audio signals into control sources capable of influencing various synthesizer parameters. With this feature, you can utilize vocal recordings to control different parameters, creating a talking synthesizer effect. Additionally, drum loops can be used to modulate effects parameters, resulting in unique rhythmic effects. It’s worth noting that the audio source can even be obtained from live inputs through the keyboard’s A/D input. The Envelope Follower opens up a world of creative possibilities, enabling you to explore innovative sound manipulation techniques.

Montage 8 Yamaha Specs

• Dimensions: Width 1450mm (57 1/16”), Height 170mm (6 11/16”), Depth 460mm (18 1/8”)
• Weight: 29kg (63lb 15oz)
• Keyboard: 88 balance hammer effect keys
• Touch sensitivity: Initial touch and aftertouch sensors
• Synthesis Engine: 8 Elements FM-X; Motion Control Synthesis with AMW2 and 88 algorithms
• Maximum Polyphony: FM-X – 128 (stereo/mono waveforms), AMW2 – 128 (stereo/mono waveforms)
• Filters: 18 types of filters
• The Montage 8 offers a wide range of effects, including 12 types of reverbs, 76 types of variations, 76 types of insertions (A, B), 15 master effects, 71 A/D part i along with 5 bands of master EQ, 3 bands of 1st part EQ, and 2 bands of 2nd part EQ for precise sound shaping and customization.
• Display: 7” TFT color wide VA LCD touch screen
• Controllers: Super Knob, Data Dial, eight knobs, eight control sliders, Master Volume, Pitch Bend Wheel, AD Input Gain knob, Ribbon Controller, and Modulation Wheel
• The Montage 8 offers various connectivity options, including USB to HOST, USB to DEVICE, MIDI (In, Out, and Through), Foot Controller (1, 2), Foot Switch (assignable/sustain), balanced TRS jacks (6.3mm), standard stereo phone jack, and A/D Input (6.3mm).
• Presets: 128 preset and 2048 user live sets
• Sequencer: 16 sequence tracks, Scene tracks, Tempo tracks
• Recording: Supports real-time replace, real-time punch in/out, and real-time overdub
• Note Capacity: Approximately 130,000 notes
• Note Resolution: 480 ppq
• Tempo Range: 5 – 300
• Power Consumption: 27W
• Included Accessories: Manual, AC power cord, Cubase AI download info
• Please note that the information provided is based on the specifications of the keyboard model mentioned.

CONCLUSION 

The Montage 8 Yamaha represents a significant advancement in synthesizer technology. Building upon the strengths of its predecessors, Yamaha has created a remarkable instrument that surpasses expectations. This keyboard is a worthy successor to the renowned Yamaha Motif, offering an extensive selection of high-quality sounds, exceptional playability, and a robust build.

The Montage 8 delivers an unforgettable performance experience for both the musician and the audience. The sound selection is vast and diverse, ensuring that musicians of all genres and skill levels will find inspiration. The sound quality is superb, capturing the nuances and authenticity that musicians crave. The keyboard’s construction is top-notch, incorporating premium materials to enhance durability and provide an exceptional playing experience.

Considering the performance and overall value offered by the Montage 8, it is without hesitation that we affirm its worthiness of its price tag. In our opinion, there is no other synthesizer on the market that compares to the beauty and capabilities of the Montage 8 Yamaha. It is a sound investment that will elevate your musical endeavors to new heights.