I have many synths and someone asked me if I could only keep one, which one would it be. I said the MODx hands down. I wouldn't say it is my favorite because I like the analog sound of some of my others but nothing comes even close to what the MODx can do. Not even in the same ballpark. With that said, I would say it is far from a intuitive synth. This is due to the combination of how incredibly deep the synth is and also that Yamaha has not really done a great job on the UI or programing flow. I would say it is a fairly easy synth to have some fun with and combine some performances, simple pattern, etc.. However to get the most out of it, it is quite complicated and you have to do tons of research, tutorials, and forums to get the most out of it. I feel like most MODx owners barely scratch the surface of what this thing can do because it is quite difficult to learn how to get really deep with it, which is a shame because of how much they are missing out on.
Agree; The MODX has a similar vibe to the DX7. Too hard to program the DX7 so most people just used the built-in presets or bought extra sounds. Having said all that, I am getting better at programming the MODX and can even see their logic and consistency from DX7 to MODX. It almost demands a detailed approach to programming it, because it can actually do a lot of things. In some respects they’ve made very efficient design decisions at the expense of a greater learning curve. I absolutely love my MODX; its the best thing I’ve bought for myself in 30 years!
I do agree. There is no need to use the analog synths for a live performance. Most musical directors always want to fix sounds on rehearsals. So as a keyboarder I always asked to fix sound sets on my keyboards before live performance. The keyboards that have sound list for live like Kronos, Nautilus, Monstage and Modx are so useful for live. Modx is the most economic gig.
I'm one of those people. I have one but have never taken the time to learn what it does. I just scroll through the sounds and pick one I like. I'll have to make an effort but I find the thought a bit daunting.
Now the real question would be: what’s next? After the killer M8x? What’s the next MODX gen going to be like and when will they come out with it? I need better transitions (without cutouts) between performances and more polyphony, even use the 16 channels in the software. I don’t mind if it’s more expensive I need it to be light as the Modx and not heavy like the M8X
@@rafaelevoramartorellthey released the montage m 2.0 update and it was a drastic change. Analyzing the history of releases, they seem to release an upgraded version of an existing model, and the + version of the ModX wasn’t too much of a difference compared to the update and the M series. I’m guessing they’ll release an update that upgrades the OS of the ModX possibly? Better workflow?
I just got a MoDX8 a few days ago - primarily because the FA-08 was backordered til “who knows when.” I am NOT disappointed! Problem is that the terminology was almost crippling in the differences. By you using the proper MoDX “verbiage” I was/am able to start to wrap my head around the functions. PLEASE do more vids! No other vid has been so clear and concise. You take the time vs bounce through buttons and I/we wonder just what you did. SO helpful! Subscribed!!!
This is EXACTLY what I was looking for, an introductory tutorial that was more than just showing how to pick an instrument, but not concentrating on the esoteric stuff. I feel confident that I can hit the ground running when I get mine. Thanks so much!! (I subscribed because of this video.)
Well, if you aren't an official Yamaha demonstrator, you should be. Extremely helpful as I just got my MODX6 and this video is a massive help. Thanks :)
First off, great video!!! I sold my Fantom 0 to get the Modx. The clincher for me came when I got to play them side by side through the same sound system. To hear the difference sound wise was really eye opening, maybe ear opening is the better way to say it. Roland also continues to rehash the same sounds over and over. I mean I want that wow factor for new and creative, not the deja vu because I hear my former XP30, JV1080, Juno G and Fantom X over and over again in a new keyboard. What's perplexing is this is an issue that has been going on for awhile. I had the same issue with the Fantom X going back to the earlier keyboards. Roland has always had great interfaces, but the new Yamaha interfaces have really closed the gap between the two. I was pretty much a Roland guy, but I do not regret at all getting the Yamaha Modx. Its just sound so much better and all the other bells and whistles are the pretty much there on both. I am definitely doing my comparisons side by side and through the same sound system as much as possible from now on.
I was a dedicated Roland user for 15 years (1992 to 2007). XP-30, SC-88, JV-90, JV-1080, XP-80 and finally Fantom-X. All excellent boards and IMO in that period Roland held its own against the flagship Korg and Yamaha products. Then they kind of hit a wall, and each new product refresh seemed to add less and less in the way of upgrades. Even the Fantom wasn't a huge leap forward on the superb XP series. In 2007, I switched to Nord and haven't regretted it. I still keep an eye on the Big 3 anytime they bring out a new line, and in my view, Roland has fallen well off the pace of the other two, at least in the workstation and performance synth class.
I think workstations have had a bit of an existential crisis moment because they are mainly for music production, but they will never match the UI and experience of a DAW. But they lack the organic feel of a stage performance instrument.
Having just read some of the owner's manual, but not yet had time on the keyboard, this was exceptionally helpful in visualizing the basic functions and navigation for the MODX - thank you!
It would be nice if manufacturers just created videos on how to use their products. Videos are so cheap and easy to make now. It would really go a long way. I learn much faster by watching a person perform a task rather than reading it. Thanks for watching!
Thank you for such a helpful video. I've watched loads of MODX7 videos in an attempt to understand how to use the beast and THIS one has helped me the most.
I found your video, it was excatly what I was looking for. I'm thinking of buying a Modx 6 and this video tells me everything I wanted to know.Bravo Darrick.
Very helpful video! You are explaining the features so well that I can’t wait for my modx to arrive now and try out everything you showed. Please keep up posting tutorials!
Just bought mine and within that day it arrive I've setup the whole setlist of sounds for my band, it is quite easy once you started to get to know it a little bit.
Fantastic video! I put my hands on a MODX 8+ yesterday for the first time. It was surprisingly easy to navigate the menus and set up the functions. It could be because it is very similar to my 30-year-old Yamaha PSR-320 in the way it is set up.
I’m a total noob. I don’t even play piano yet. Have wanted to buy a MOX6 or MODX for years because I think the price realistic sounds and functionality will motivate me to learn to use it. I know I can buy a much cheaper keyboard but the unrealistic sounds drive me crazy. I want to be able to creat good sounding music without going through months of of practicing old folk and nursery rhymes. I would love to see a series of step by step tutorials for beginners like me on how to create multi track music using all the functionality of MODX. This would certainly not only teach beginners to use the MODX but also also keep us entertained and interested.
THANK YOU! I just moved from a Motif XF, this video was really helpful in getting my head around the MODX workflow. Easier than my XF in so many ways! Subscribed!
Hi Derrick. I'm so glad you are out here & have the patience to not only figure out these complicated keyboards, but also the compassion to share your knowledge! You are a wonderful human! I do have a request tho... Could you please turn the keyboard up a little so we can hear it as well as we hear your wonderful voice? Thank you kindly. Be well & take care.
The power wall wart is a pain and access to the i/o et al is tucked well away but you’re right it has incredible depth of sounds and facilities…many of which I will probably never use. The flashing master knob is a easily dealt with in utilities.
I like this keyboard, A lot easier to use than the Kronos getting to sounds that you want and layering the sounds seem very straightforward and making the set lists and storing them very good
Thank-you soooooo much for this tutorial!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am looking forward to watching all your videos. I was ready to return the Yamaha MODX 8, but you clarified many confusions!!!Thank-You!!
Wow! Your brain obviously works way faster than mine. It's clear you have answered your question in between the sound demos😆. Looking at the interface and reading the manual is really daunting, however, you have compartmentalized the functions and present them clearly, thus breaking down what looks like an insurmountable learning curve into manageable areas of exploration for the learner. The layers of editing are no longer scary and the way in which a user might apply these tools to her or his own music making is a massive help.
I've been a Yamaha user since the DX-7, then I went on to use several other series of Yamaha keyboards such as the PSR S-90XS, CP-73, as well as other brands such as Korg and Dexibell. Yamaha keyboards appeal for me because of the rich, iconic sound, but also because of the workflow that Yamaha offers the user. You get used to it once you understand the flow. There is a general feeling of being unfamiliar with a keyboard, especially if you have to read a user guide. :)
I own a MODX and I've found it overly difficult to program. Some things are very easy, but it has so many incredible features that this naturally makes it more complex in general. You will never get bored learning new things it can do... but it can do SO MANY incredible things, you could easily spend 30-60mins just programming a sound and tweaking it. You know those EuroRacks with massive amounts of wires connecting all the different modules? Well.. the MODX & Montage is basically like that except with software and it just takes time to learn.
absolute pain in the ass, especially if your using many elements. its also annoying having to fine tune them so they can sound good, and many of the samples are very outdated.
Very nice video. Clear and to the point. New subscriber. Worth pointing out the polyphony in the AW2 engine isn’t necessary notes, its elements. The more elements you use in each part, the quicker you can run out of notes, long before actually playing 128 notes. Not normally an issue, but ive seen some people get confused and say they weren’t playing that many notes etc.
Great video. By far the most explanatory. I really reached when I purchased the MODX7+ but after watching your video, I feel a little better about my decision. I am still learning terms and wish I had a glossary for understanding. Fortunately and maybe even better AI can can explain to, however sometimes they get it wrong. Thank you for posting this.
After watching this video I might add the MODX8 Plus to my business. It has the live performance (preset features) I need, with ease. In addition, the patches, as called back in the day. are good out of the box. Nice video; this is my second time viewing a video about the MODX8 Plus in the MODX debut. I am sold. After using using MoTIFs, MOFX, etc. the MODX is the board that will take me to the next level I've playing l, without the price tag of some of the red keyboards out there Thanks. I might order it this week.
Have had my MODX8 for three years now and love it. The creativity is limitless. (It's also an excellent MIDI controller working seamlessly with Cubase). The menus, editing and tools in MODX are well worth learning (FYI...Montage and MODX use the same touchscreen, software functions and synth engines). If one learns and uses many of the features consistently, MODX eventually becomes pretty easy to use. The "Smart Morph" that came with update 2.5 is amazing!
Bro,owning the modx8 for 3 years,how's your experience with it,Do u experience any kind of issues with it,I really want to know because there are some people who experienced like the pitch bend problem,We're planning on buying this instrument as jamming and stage performing purposes,So i really want to make the most out of this instrument without having this kind of problem
@@Unknown-ie4ve In response to your inquiry, I have experienced no user problems whatsoever with my MODX8. It is an amazing synthesizer! The menus follow logical sequences. Navigating the menus takes some time to learn, but after a while they become "second nature" to use. "Scenes" are great for live performances. You can record many multiple instruments and arps in up to eight individual "Scenes", then call up any particular "Scene" to play it by pressing each "Scene" button on the keyboard. Be sure to update your MODX with firmware version 2.52. It fixed a problem in which the "Pitch Bend" controller could not control any parameters. Make sure to follow the instructions exactly on how to do the update. Hope this helps.
@@take942 Thank you so much for your reply!,I know this instrument is a monster,it'll be quite a while to get the hang of the menus and stuff and really,also thanks for letting me know about the 'Scene' will make use of that too! Btw,Have u ever tried or know about using this instrument as an interface for a second keyboard,Like,Using the Modx sound as like a VST for a secondary keyboard?
@@Unknown-ie4ve I believe that the MODX can be connected to another MIDI device (for ex. a keyboard) via MIDI [IN] [OUT] terminals at rear panel, then needs to be configured for it in the Utility section via the touchscreen. Using the "MODX Connect" app, I move my recorded "Patterns" from the MODX to the "MODX Connect" app. From the app I drag them into separate tracks in my DAW for multi-track recording in my DAW.
Hello Darrick ,I just wanted to say Thank You showing us a whole lot to do with this equipment .i was somewhat stumped and taught when in the world will i ever understand this Keyboard. you made it much more helpful .I certainly appreciate it .
My Montage 7 is coming this week and I going to keep watching your videos as I am not a true keyboard player, rather a guitar player trying to learn the keyboard. I know the basic chord structures but really need to understand inversions. However, I think this Montage will help me sound really good until I learn a lot more. I plan on using the Arp on everything to add flavor. Thanks for your videos.
Extremely helpful and clear video! Hope you do more on the MODX In the future, maybe some deeper dives where you focus in an individual function per video.
Really good video. Very helpful. Thank you for creating. Maybe consider playing slower notes when demonstrating the sounds of the keyboard. Difficult to hear the true nature of each sample. But, good video overall.
@@tonylancer7367 Well sorry for the late reply 2 years later.... I sold the Jupiter-X cause it was trash but...I went with the Nord cause its light...but I do miss some features in the Montage though you can upload larger samples because it has more 1.75 GB and The Nord has 400 something MB thats absolutely foul!
Cheers, brother ! I like your presentation-style... works better for me than most of the others. I just scored my MODX, piano sample seems light on bottom end (sonically, compared to my old Motif-ES rack) but there are some nice facets in the hi-end.
Awesome Tutorial Video! I ordered a Yamaha Montage 8 and will be arriving next week. This gives me an idea to quickly get me started using mine! Thank You! 😃😃😃😃😃😃😃😃😃😃
Same here, man, I am so in love with this thing, and I've owned a lot of keyboards over the last 25 years. I can't believe how much they give you for your money. Of course, no synth with this many features is going to be super easy to master, but it is so worth putting in the time to learn it.
Yes I’m glad I’m taking the time to learn it, I’ve actually had it for over a year now and just realizing now from TH-cam what it’s capable of and the updates 👌🏾👌🏾👌🏾💯💯🍾 ... I just love it
Same. Easily the best. LOVE my MODX7! Just used it at a winery performance this past weekend. We played rock, pop, Motown, country, & reggae to an appreciative crowd of nearly 2000 guests. Awesome!
Your commentary is very thorough and detailed. Didn't I hear a bit of "The Savior is Waiting" @17:45? I also hear bits and pieces of Bruce Hibbard's "We Are All His Children" in your demos. I love those chords. Awesome job, Darrick!
@@WaltMo4 , Hey Bro... perhaps but remember, one man's Morris Minor might be a Benz to someone else. The MODX suits my workflow and sonic needs for the stuff that I'm doing. The Kronos is a top keyboard no doubt, but sadly it wasn't for me.
Not a Keyboard player at heart, bought the MODX6+ for studio use.. This video is great for editing sound... but for me as a newbie KeySynth units this one has me boggled on what the functions or rather how they integrate to modify sounds what each Knob does or can do, if there is a video on becoming familiar with the knobs and buttons it'd be great to be pointed in that direction, mean while I will probably go through this one and try to pick out some of those you touched on ! Thanks.
Thank you for this important video. Ease of use is often overlooked. You explain the functionality clear and fast. One comment: the super-knob is distracting and annoying.
I always enjoy your videos. I wish you can make a video on some more advanced effects. I have been struggling trying to simulate a tremolo effect in oriental instruments such as the Ud, where the tremolo or note repeat is triggered by either velocity or mod wheel. I have seen sone try to achieve this with tremolo effect, echo or trill arp.
Thank you for watching.I appreciate the compliment. I am seriously considering thinking about making some more advanced tutorials for the MODX. I do base a lot of what I choose to post based on what people watch and comment on.
@@darrickkeels6387 would love to see more, you make the topic easy to follow and understand. I used to have a Korg pa900 and pa4x, I used to be able to make such edits easily using their simpler user interface. The modx has its own way and I am constantly searching youtube for advanced topics
I just watched for the first time tonight. I am going to sit down at the board tomorrow with the ipad and just dry run (emulate/copy what he does) stuff because he laid it out so well.... I suspect you will too! :)
Great video guy! Your playing is nice! The church that I am playing for has one of these.. I am Korg Kronos person myself, but I like having to learn a new board... Thanks again...
As a long time Roland RD user, I don’t like using MODX8. I find it difficult to edit my layers dynamically. Yes, MODX sounds are probably way better than the RD, but I will stick will RD due to the convenience of later editing.
I just got my hands on one of these a few days ago. I am still trying to get mine set up for gigging. Can you tell me, where the hell is the adjustment for the pitch bend wheel? I have been digging and I cannot find it. Awesome video here!
Amazing overview! Thanks so much. Very helpful. Any chance you could do a video on the Arpeggiator functions? Still find that a bit confusing! :) You are a legend! Keep up the good work.
@@tomosherif agreed. In general Korg don't seem to care much about their GUI. For one thing, the Kronos is in a far better position when compared to the Pa4X arranger whose GUI was a total mess, even after 3 firmware updates and poor visual quality, but still the innate complexity of Kronos' GUI stems from the highly sophisticated functions and level of granularity of customization, which calls for a careful consideration of how the user experience is designed to attempt to simplify the various missions. I really wish to speak to #KorgOfficial to offer recommendation, and potentially Kaizen style assistance in that regards. For the looks of it, the anticipated new instrument doesn't seem to be a replacement of Kronos, but rather a lower segment. In all honesty with all the superior feature of the Kronos, the only thing hey need to work on to level up with the competition is the user experience of the GUI. #Korg, #KorgUSA
I think to scroll through presets its easy to use. The only Thing I wished they would add a Browser like in the Akai Mpc Live X one or now on the Akai MPCKey61. So that we can play sounds shots and Accapella's for example easily.
The only feature I got crazy with the MODX is the DAW connection. This is tricky for me. Others find it easy. OK. All in all this is a synth for the daily use, the working musician. On stage, it doesn‘t make any mischief.
What i did was Connect audio monitors to the modx and choose Yamaha Steinberg driver in your daw. You will now be using the modx soundcard and have access to the five stereo USB pairs. You can play vsts and the sound will come through the modx and you will be able to record the modx sounds into the daw of your choice.
Great video. I am considering getting a MODX. You answered a lot of questions I had. I didn't see you assign a control pedal to a voice. Is that possible and how is it done?
Hey great videos =). Also really appreciate the way you acknowledge workflow being a big factor, as important (or maybe even more important) than sound quality for making good use of an instrument. I'm curious if you use the FM-X or arp or modulation features (I think Yamaha calls it motion sequencing?) very extensively? If you do feel like you're familiar with those features, would love to hear you talk about them. So far I've stuck with software synths because it seems like the workflow for modulating any parameters with LFOs, envelopes, etc. is better in software, what do you think?
I do actually use the arps, motion sequencing, and the FMX sound engine quite extensively. I may do an in depth video in the future. However nothing beats my computer's VSTs sound wise. It just has so much more RAM and processing power. This means it plays larger files and larger files hold more information. So the textures in the timbres cannot be matched by hardware. Also the user interface is generally more extensive and intuitive as they take full advantage of the larger computer monitors and advanced graphics. Thanks for watching.
I design and produce embedded electronic systems for a living. In my opinion the lack of good Yamaha tutorials combined with a baffling user interface makes the MODX and MONTAGE bloody difficult, unless you just want a good sounding keyboard.
Can you please do an in depth vid on the sequencer? I would like to know how many measures you can program into it....ie can you make a 100 or 150 measure sequence? Love your vids!!!
You can go up to 256 measures in one pattern, and then you can chain patterns, so it can go about as long as you can imagine. After the last update the sequencer is really very good - older videos won't show how good it is now.
The Montage/MODX starts with an entirely reimagined architecture that you have to wrap your mind around before it becomes intuitive. If you’ve owned any version of the Motif, much of this is familiar, but then they put all the sounds into these “Performances”, which can be visualized as multiple Motif’s controlled by a single keyboard. Each “Part” of a “Performance” is essentially an entire sound preset like you’d have in the Motif. You can have from 1 to 8 “Parts” per “Performance”, all with separate settings for EQ, Functions, etc etc etc etc. Most of the editing parameters you’re used to in the Motif are also in the Montage/MODX, but some are not where you expect them to be. The Montage/MODX is indeed a very powerful keyboard, but the navigation takes getting used to. It’s really a Motif on hyper-steroids.
I just got the MODX8 plus on Friday. Loving it so far. Want to ask if there is a way to set the octave button to transpose by default without having to hold shift?
I had to touch base with you.I have a Yamaha MODX 8 on the way and possibly an Arturia KeyLab 51 mk2 .The MODX will be the bottom keyboard and Arturia the top for other sounds,synths,layering.I had reservations of the MODX 8 jeybed, and was going to look at Jawai MP7Se,but funds are low and back order sucks!!!!!I decided to try the YamahaMODX8 keybed.Is this a good setup for studio?At least if I do a live gig I could take the Yamaha out based on one board.Thanks for the advice.Is there another 61 or 63 key that would compete with Arturia?
Great video and nice voice! Sounds like you should be on the radio!
Thank you Sanjay for stopping by! I really appreciate it.
Sanjay😍
I have many synths and someone asked me if I could only keep one, which one would it be. I said the MODx hands down. I wouldn't say it is my favorite because I like the analog sound of some of my others but nothing comes even close to what the MODx can do. Not even in the same ballpark. With that said, I would say it is far from a intuitive synth. This is due to the combination of how incredibly deep the synth is and also that Yamaha has not really done a great job on the UI or programing flow. I would say it is a fairly easy synth to have some fun with and combine some performances, simple pattern, etc.. However to get the most out of it, it is quite complicated and you have to do tons of research, tutorials, and forums to get the most out of it. I feel like most MODx owners barely scratch the surface of what this thing can do because it is quite difficult to learn how to get really deep with it, which is a shame because of how much they are missing out on.
Agree; The MODX has a similar vibe to the DX7. Too hard to program the DX7 so most people just used the built-in presets or bought extra sounds. Having said all that, I am getting better at programming the MODX and can even see their logic and consistency from DX7 to MODX. It almost demands a detailed approach to programming it, because it can actually do a lot of things. In some respects they’ve made very efficient design decisions at the expense of a greater learning curve. I absolutely love my MODX; its the best thing I’ve bought for myself in 30 years!
I do agree. There is no need to use the analog synths for a live performance. Most musical directors always want to fix sounds on rehearsals. So as a keyboarder I always asked to fix sound sets on my keyboards before live performance. The keyboards that have sound list for live like Kronos, Nautilus, Monstage and Modx are so useful for live. Modx is the most economic gig.
I'm one of those people. I have one but have never taken the time to learn what it does. I just scroll through the sounds and pick one I like. I'll have to make an effort but I find the thought a bit daunting.
Now the real question would be: what’s next? After the killer M8x? What’s the next MODX gen going to be like and when will they come out with it? I need better transitions (without cutouts) between performances and more polyphony, even use the 16 channels in the software. I don’t mind if it’s more expensive I need it to be light as the Modx and not heavy like the M8X
@@rafaelevoramartorellthey released the montage m 2.0 update and it was a drastic change. Analyzing the history of releases, they seem to release an upgraded version of an existing model, and the + version of the ModX wasn’t too much of a difference compared to the update and the M series. I’m guessing they’ll release an update that upgrades the OS of the ModX possibly? Better workflow?
I just got a MoDX8 a few days ago - primarily because the FA-08 was backordered til “who knows when.” I am NOT disappointed! Problem is that the terminology was almost crippling in the differences. By you using the proper MoDX “verbiage” I was/am able to start to wrap my head around the functions. PLEASE do more vids! No other vid has been so clear and concise. You take the time vs bounce through buttons and I/we wonder just what you did. SO helpful! Subscribed!!!
Thank you for your subscription! I appreciate it.
This is EXACTLY what I was looking for, an introductory tutorial that was more than just showing how to pick an instrument, but not concentrating on the esoteric stuff. I feel confident that I can hit the ground running when I get mine. Thanks so much!! (I subscribed because of this video.)
Not only an informative video on the functions of this synth but your playing is incredible...wish I had that magic in my hands...well done sir
Glad you enjoyed it!
Wow! So instructive. I'm about to replace a MOXF6 with a MODX8, this video is all I needed for live performance at church! Thank you Darrick
by far one of the best MODX videos i have seen of this frankly underrated machine, you sir have just gained another new subscriber :)
Thank you!
What speaker can I connect to?
@@sustaitacuhh I use Yamaha HS8'S studio monitors and it sounds gorgeous.
Well, if you aren't an official Yamaha demonstrator, you should be. Extremely helpful as I just got my MODX6 and this video is a massive help. Thanks :)
First off, great video!!! I sold my Fantom 0 to get the Modx. The clincher for me came when I got to play them side by side through the same sound system. To hear the difference sound wise was really eye opening, maybe ear opening is the better way to say it. Roland also continues to rehash the same sounds over and over. I mean I want that wow factor for new and creative, not the deja vu because I hear my former XP30, JV1080, Juno G and Fantom X over and over again in a new keyboard. What's perplexing is this is an issue that has been going on for awhile. I had the same issue with the Fantom X going back to the earlier keyboards. Roland has always had great interfaces, but the new Yamaha interfaces have really closed the gap between the two. I was pretty much a Roland guy, but I do not regret at all getting the Yamaha Modx. Its just sound so much better and all the other bells and whistles are the pretty much there on both. I am definitely doing my comparisons side by side and through the same sound system as much as possible from now on.
I was a dedicated Roland user for 15 years (1992 to 2007). XP-30, SC-88, JV-90, JV-1080, XP-80 and finally Fantom-X.
All excellent boards and IMO in that period Roland held its own against the flagship Korg and Yamaha products.
Then they kind of hit a wall, and each new product refresh seemed to add less and less in the way of upgrades. Even the Fantom wasn't a huge leap forward on the superb XP series.
In 2007, I switched to Nord and haven't regretted it. I still keep an eye on the Big 3 anytime they bring out a new line, and in my view, Roland has fallen well off the pace of the other two, at least in the workstation and performance synth class.
I think workstations have had a bit of an existential crisis moment because they are mainly for music production, but they will never match the UI and experience of a DAW.
But they lack the organic feel of a stage performance instrument.
Having just read some of the owner's manual, but not yet had time on the keyboard, this was exceptionally helpful in visualizing the basic functions and navigation for the MODX - thank you!
It would be nice if manufacturers just created videos on how to use their products. Videos are so cheap and easy to make now. It would really go a long way. I learn much faster by watching a person perform a task rather than reading it. Thanks for watching!
Thank you for such a helpful video. I've watched loads of MODX7 videos in an attempt to understand how to use the beast and THIS one has helped me the most.
My pleasure!
I found your video, it was excatly what I was looking for. I'm thinking of buying a Modx 6 and this video tells me everything I wanted to know.Bravo Darrick.
Thank you so much for watching! I appreciate it!
Very helpful video! You are explaining the features so well that I can’t wait for my modx to arrive now and try out everything you showed. Please keep up posting tutorials!
Can you make a demo video showing how to to create a song using
all the scenes, style parts, arps, rhythms, patterns sequencer, etc?
This would be awesome !
Just bought mine and within that day it arrive I've setup the whole setlist of sounds for my band, it is quite easy once you started to get to know it a little bit.
Dear Darrick, thank you from the Netherlands. I just received my MODX6+ 2 days ago and your video has helped me a lot to get started
Best explanation on this keyboard I've ever seen. That's not to say it's not a very complex synth to become totally familiar with.
Fantastic video! I put my hands on a MODX 8+ yesterday for the first time. It was surprisingly easy to navigate the menus and set up the functions. It could be because it is very similar to my 30-year-old Yamaha PSR-320 in the way it is set up.
I’m a total noob. I don’t even play piano yet. Have wanted to buy a MOX6 or MODX for years because I think the price realistic sounds and functionality will motivate me to learn to use it. I know I can buy a much cheaper keyboard but the unrealistic sounds drive me crazy. I want to be able to creat good sounding music without going through months of of practicing old folk and nursery rhymes. I would love to see a series of step by step tutorials for beginners like me on how to create multi track music using all the functionality of MODX. This would certainly not only teach beginners to use the MODX but also also keep us entertained and interested.
Appreciate you making this Darrick. I learn a lot by watching and people like you make it easier for people like me.
Thank you sir.
THANK YOU! I just moved from a Motif XF, this video was really helpful in getting my head around the MODX workflow. Easier than my XF in so many ways! Subscribed!
Thank you for watching!
Thank you Darrick! I’ve learned more about my MODX from your video then from any other source.
My pleasure! Thank you for watching
Hi Derrick. I'm so glad you are out here & have the patience to not only figure out these complicated keyboards, but also the compassion to share your knowledge! You are a wonderful human! I do have a request tho... Could you please turn the keyboard up a little so we can hear it as well as we hear your wonderful voice? Thank you kindly. Be well & take care.
Yup, I have started turning the keyboards up in the mix lately
Blessed man - you just showed me how to use this thing lol I haven’t had a clue - can you do more!?🥶
Totally thinking about getting this. Nice sounds, Awesome presets, also it supports syx so I can play it like it's a DX-7 which is my favorite synth.
The power wall wart is a pain and access to the i/o et al is tucked well away but you’re right it has incredible depth of sounds and facilities…many of which I will probably never use. The flashing master knob is a easily dealt with in utilities.
I like this keyboard, A lot easier to use than the Kronos getting to sounds that you want and layering the sounds seem very straightforward and making the set lists and storing them very good
thank you.. very well and easy explained.. i just bought MODX7 and got a lot help from you video.. god bless you
Thank-you soooooo much for this tutorial!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am looking forward to watching all your videos. I was ready to return the Yamaha MODX 8, but you clarified many confusions!!!Thank-You!!
Wow! Your brain obviously works way faster than mine. It's clear you have answered your question in between the sound demos😆.
Looking at the interface and reading the manual is really daunting, however, you have compartmentalized the functions and present them clearly,
thus breaking down what looks like an insurmountable learning curve into manageable areas of exploration for the learner. The layers of editing are no longer scary and the way in which a user might apply these tools to her or his own music making is a massive help.
Thank you. I am glad I could help!
I've been a Yamaha user since the DX-7, then I went on to use several other series of Yamaha keyboards such as the PSR S-90XS, CP-73, as well as other brands such as Korg and Dexibell. Yamaha keyboards appeal for me because of the rich, iconic sound, but also because of the workflow that Yamaha offers the user. You get used to it once you understand the flow. There is a general feeling of being unfamiliar with a keyboard, especially if you have to read a user guide. :)
One of the best tutorials I found on MODX ❤
Excellent explanation. The best i have seen so far. Clear, to the point. Fantastic Darrick. Thank you.
I own a MODX and I've found it overly difficult to program. Some things are very easy, but it has so many incredible features that this naturally makes it more complex in general. You will never get bored learning new things it can do... but it can do SO MANY incredible things, you could easily spend 30-60mins just programming a sound and tweaking it. You know those EuroRacks with massive amounts of wires connecting all the different modules? Well.. the MODX & Montage is basically like that except with software and it just takes time to learn.
absolute pain in the ass, especially if your using many elements. its also annoying having to fine tune them so they can sound good, and many of the samples are very outdated.
Thanks for the explanation!!! My only thing is in the split section. I wish you could have show how to shift the patches!!!
Very nice video. Clear and to the point. New subscriber. Worth pointing out the polyphony in the AW2 engine isn’t necessary notes, its elements. The more elements you use in each part, the quicker you can run out of notes, long before actually playing 128 notes. Not normally an issue, but ive seen some people get confused and say they weren’t playing that many notes etc.
Indeed. 128-Voice polyphony is correct
Great video. By far the most explanatory. I really reached when I purchased the MODX7+ but after watching your video, I feel a little better about my decision. I am still learning terms and wish I had a glossary for understanding. Fortunately and maybe even better AI can can explain to, however sometimes they get it wrong. Thank you for posting this.
Thanks for some really useful information. I’ve had my Modx8 for two years and this has been instructive and helpful 🙏Love your piano playing too!
After watching this video I might add the MODX8 Plus to my business. It has the live performance (preset features) I need, with ease. In addition, the patches, as called back in the day. are good out of the box. Nice video; this is my second time viewing a video about the MODX8 Plus in the MODX debut. I am sold. After using using MoTIFs, MOFX, etc. the MODX is the board that will take me to the next level I've playing l, without the price tag of some of the red keyboards out there Thanks. I might order it this week.
I agree. There are many videos with sounds. And with this type of synthesiser it is important how to use it. Thx
Have had my MODX8 for three years now and love it. The creativity is limitless. (It's also an excellent MIDI controller working seamlessly with Cubase).
The menus, editing and tools in MODX are well worth learning (FYI...Montage and MODX use the same touchscreen, software functions and synth engines). If one learns and uses many of the features consistently, MODX eventually becomes pretty easy to use. The "Smart Morph" that came with update 2.5 is amazing!
Bro,owning the modx8 for 3 years,how's your experience with it,Do u experience any kind of issues with it,I really want to know because there are some people who experienced like the pitch bend problem,We're planning on buying this instrument as jamming and stage performing purposes,So i really want to make the most out of this instrument without having this kind of problem
@@Unknown-ie4ve In response to your inquiry, I have experienced no user problems whatsoever with my MODX8. It is an amazing synthesizer! The menus follow logical sequences. Navigating the menus takes some time to learn, but after a while they become "second nature" to use. "Scenes" are great for live performances. You can record many multiple instruments and arps in up to eight individual "Scenes", then call up any particular "Scene" to play it by pressing each "Scene" button on the keyboard.
Be sure to update your MODX with firmware version 2.52. It fixed a problem in which the "Pitch Bend" controller could not control any parameters. Make sure to follow the instructions exactly on how to do the update.
Hope this helps.
@@take942 Thank you so much for your reply!,I know this instrument is a monster,it'll be quite a while to get the hang of the menus and stuff and really,also thanks for letting me know about the 'Scene' will make use of that too!
Btw,Have u ever tried or know about using this instrument as an interface for a second keyboard,Like,Using the Modx sound as like a VST for a secondary keyboard?
@@Unknown-ie4ve I believe that the MODX can be connected to another MIDI device (for ex. a keyboard) via MIDI [IN] [OUT] terminals at rear panel, then needs to be configured for it in the Utility section via the touchscreen. Using the "MODX Connect" app, I move my recorded "Patterns" from the MODX to the "MODX Connect" app. From the app I drag them into separate tracks in my DAW for multi-track recording in my DAW.
@@take942 Man...thank you so so much for taking your time explaining,I appreciate that,I hope u have an amazing day/night!
Excellent "how-to". I'm sold!
OMG you saved days or even months of my life to comprehend modx6! Thank you so much! Subbed!
Thank you for watching!
Great tutorial which covers many aspects of the keyboard
Hello Darrick ,I just wanted to say Thank You showing us a whole lot to do with this equipment .i was somewhat stumped and taught when in the world will i ever understand this Keyboard. you made it much more helpful .I certainly appreciate it .
Thank you for watching. I really appreciate the comment! I read enough negative ones to appreciate when a person takes the time to say "thank you."
My Montage 7 is coming this week and I going to keep watching your videos as I am not a true keyboard player, rather a guitar player trying to learn the keyboard. I know the basic chord structures but really need to understand inversions. However, I think this Montage will help me sound really good until I learn a lot more. I plan on using the Arp on everything to add flavor. Thanks for your videos.
Thank you for watching!
Extremely helpful and clear video! Hope you do more on the MODX In the future, maybe some deeper dives where you focus in an individual function per video.
I will. I am getting quite a few requests to do so
@@darrickkeels6387 Fantastic! Just subscribed, keep up the great work!
Thank you, what a great video!! This is the most helpful video I have seen yet for the MODX!
Subscribed!
Thank you!!
Really good video. Very helpful. Thank you for creating. Maybe consider playing slower notes when demonstrating the sounds of the keyboard. Difficult to hear the true nature of each sample. But, good video overall.
It’s very easy to use guys. You will like it. I had a montage 8 but once you go deep it may bother your head a bit.
Hey bro, what do you use and what do you wish to have?
Tony Lancer I use the Nord Stage 3 and the Roland Jupiter-X
@@tuneunleashed Can I ask why you jumped to Nord and left your Montage? I'm guessing you got the Jupiter for the synth sounds?
@@tonylancer7367 Well sorry for the late reply 2 years later.... I sold the Jupiter-X cause it was trash but...I went with the Nord cause its light...but I do miss some features in the Montage though you can upload larger samples because it has more 1.75 GB and The Nord has 400 something MB thats absolutely foul!
I’m a guitar player and this is my first synth and I’m learning it fairly quickly
I'm thinking of buying an MODX7 and this video has been very informative - thanks!
My pleasure. Glad I could help!
Thank you for the blow by blow construction of a performance and a split. Really clear👍
Myyyyy guy. Best MoDX vid PERIOD. Much appreciated! Shalom!
Thank you for watching!
Brilliant video, extremely helpful, and well explained. Thank you. It made my mind up to get this synth.
Enjoy! It's a great keyboard. Thank you for watching!
Cheers, brother ! I like your presentation-style... works better for me than most of the others. I just scored my MODX, piano sample seems light on bottom end (sonically, compared to my old Motif-ES rack) but there are some nice facets in the hi-end.
Well, you are the best! It's the only video where someone delves into what really matters. Hehe
Thanks for the tip of single vs. multi parts for layering.
Awesome Tutorial Video! I ordered a Yamaha Montage 8 and will be arriving next week. This gives me an idea to quickly get me started using mine! Thank You! 😃😃😃😃😃😃😃😃😃😃
Congratulations on your new keyboard. I have the Montage 7 and love it!
Best keyboard I ever owned
Same here, man, I am so in love with this thing, and I've owned a lot of keyboards over the last 25 years. I can't believe how much they give you for your money. Of course, no synth with this many features is going to be super easy to master, but it is so worth putting in the time to learn it.
Yes I’m glad I’m taking the time to learn it, I’ve actually had it for over a year now and just realizing now from TH-cam what it’s capable of and the updates 👌🏾👌🏾👌🏾💯💯🍾 ... I just love it
Same. Easily the best. LOVE my MODX7! Just used it at a winery performance this past weekend. We played rock, pop, Motown, country, & reggae to an appreciative crowd of nearly 2000 guests. Awesome!
Your commentary is very thorough and detailed. Didn't I hear a bit of "The Savior is Waiting" @17:45? I also hear bits and pieces of Bruce Hibbard's "We Are All His Children" in your demos. I love those chords. Awesome job, Darrick!
Yup those are the bits you heard lol! Old stuff I didn't think people would recognize lol. Good ear.
Yessir... Respect!
Just sent you a friend request on Facebook. Not sure if you're active on that platform. I always enjoy networking lol
The flickering light is a hood enough reason to nut buy it.
You can turn it off.
Very informative video Darrick. It was some of the sounds on the MODX that drew me in after having a Kronos 2 for some time.
Come on dude, the Kronos has 8 sound engines! This "Keyboard" is amateur night at the Apollo compared to the Boss: Kronos 88!!!. .But no shade...Lol
@@WaltMo4 , Hey Bro... perhaps but remember, one man's Morris Minor might be a Benz to someone else. The MODX suits my workflow and sonic needs for the stuff that I'm doing. The Kronos is a top keyboard no doubt, but sadly it wasn't for me.
The big question is: why Yamaha is not able to write a REAL and complete manual like korg for example ?
Thank’s for this great video
😂😂 I will have to ask them.
Not a Keyboard player at heart, bought the MODX6+ for studio use.. This video is great for editing sound... but for me as a newbie KeySynth units this one has me boggled on what the functions or rather how they integrate to modify sounds what each Knob does or can do, if there is a video on becoming familiar with the knobs and buttons it'd be great to be pointed in that direction, mean while I will probably go through this one and try to pick out some of those you touched on ! Thanks.
Love your style of playing, man.
Thank you so much! I appreciate that.
Thank you for this important video. Ease of use is often overlooked. You explain the functionality clear and fast.
One comment: the super-knob is distracting and annoying.
The Super-Knob flashing light can be turned off. 😄
@@darrickkeels6387 Can you turn it off by default, so it won't flash right when the instrument is powered up?
Just got my Modx6, this is invaluable info for me! - thanks! Levi in sweden
Thank you for watching!
Thanks Darrick thats a really helpfull video , its sure shed some light on a few easy things that I hadn`t realised.
Glad I could help!
I like your videos you made because you make the videos which I want.
Thank you! I appreciate it
Ok...now i have to ask why the hell this man has less than 6k subs? C'mon people. This channel deserves 100x more .
Thank you!
I always enjoy your videos. I wish you can make a video on some more advanced effects. I have been struggling trying to simulate a tremolo effect in oriental instruments such as the Ud, where the tremolo or note repeat is triggered by either velocity or mod wheel. I have seen sone try to achieve this with tremolo effect, echo or trill arp.
Thank you for watching.I appreciate the compliment. I am seriously considering thinking about making some more advanced tutorials for the MODX. I do base a lot of what I choose to post based on what people watch and comment on.
@@darrickkeels6387 would love to see more, you make the topic easy to follow and understand. I used to have a Korg pa900 and pa4x, I used to be able to make such edits easily using their simpler user interface. The modx has its own way and I am constantly searching youtube for advanced topics
When making a slit you can also select the note limits from the main screen without having to hit edit.
I shall be watching this later to begin with my modx6 thanks
I just watched for the first time tonight. I am going to sit down at the board tomorrow with the ipad and just dry run (emulate/copy what he does) stuff because he laid it out so well.... I suspect you will too! :)
Great video guy! Your playing is nice! The church that I am playing for has one of these.. I am Korg Kronos person myself, but I like having to learn a new board... Thanks again...
Thanks for watching!
19:09 You can easily change the note range directly on the performance screen where you see the [C-2][G8]
As a long time Roland RD user, I don’t like using MODX8. I find it difficult to edit my layers dynamically. Yes, MODX sounds are probably way better than the RD, but I will stick will RD due to the convenience of later editing.
Yes it is easy to use if you’re willing to put in the time to understand the operating system.
Just got it yesterday, great Video. Thank you.🙏
Thank you for watching
I just got my hands on one of these a few days ago. I am still trying to get mine set up for gigging. Can you tell me, where the hell is the adjustment for the pitch bend wheel? I have been digging and I cannot find it. Awesome video here!
Exactly what I was looking for! Thank you
Awesome vid man! This helped me get the basic functions down
Love my MODX!!!
Amazing overview! Thanks so much. Very helpful. Any chance you could do a video on the Arpeggiator functions? Still find that a bit confusing! :) You are a legend! Keep up the good work.
I loved the “Savior is Waiting” moment:)
Would be great to have a similar video on the Korg Kronos 2 :-)
Korg is way toooooo complicated. But IT is a great workstation. IT is still the best workstation today.
@@tomosherif agreed. In general Korg don't seem to care much about their GUI. For one thing, the Kronos is in a far better position when compared to the Pa4X arranger whose GUI was a total mess, even after 3 firmware updates and poor visual quality, but still the innate complexity of Kronos' GUI stems from the highly sophisticated functions and level of granularity of customization, which calls for a careful consideration of how the user experience is designed to attempt to simplify the various missions.
I really wish to speak to #KorgOfficial to offer recommendation, and potentially Kaizen style assistance in that regards.
For the looks of it, the anticipated new instrument doesn't seem to be a replacement of Kronos, but rather a lower segment. In all honesty with all the superior feature of the Kronos, the only thing hey need to work on to level up with the competition is the user experience of the GUI.
#Korg, #KorgUSA
helpful video on the awm2/performance side. but as for the actual "synth" side of modx, you didnt touch on fm-x
Nice tutorial man... Great job. I was planing to get a modx....
Thank you! It's a great keyboard,
I think to scroll through presets its easy to use. The only Thing I wished they would add a Browser like in the Akai Mpc Live X one or now on the Akai MPCKey61. So that we can play sounds shots and Accapella's for example easily.
My dream keyboard 😍
This is so great.... Wow. Thanks a bunch.
The only feature I got crazy with the MODX is the DAW connection. This is tricky for me. Others find it easy. OK. All in all this is a synth for the daily use, the working musician. On stage, it doesn‘t make any mischief.
What i did was Connect audio monitors to the modx and choose Yamaha Steinberg driver in your daw. You will now be using the modx soundcard and have access to the five stereo USB pairs.
You can play vsts and the sound will come through the modx and you will be able to record the modx sounds into the daw of your choice.
Great video. I am considering getting a MODX. You answered a lot of questions I had. I didn't see you assign a control pedal to a voice. Is that possible and how is it done?
Yes you certainly can do that with the MODX!
Hey great videos =). Also really appreciate the way you acknowledge workflow being a big factor, as important (or maybe even more important) than sound quality for making good use of an instrument. I'm curious if you use the FM-X or arp or modulation features (I think Yamaha calls it motion sequencing?) very extensively? If you do feel like you're familiar with those features, would love to hear you talk about them. So far I've stuck with software synths because it seems like the workflow for modulating any parameters with LFOs, envelopes, etc. is better in software, what do you think?
I do actually use the arps, motion sequencing, and the FMX sound engine quite extensively. I may do an in depth video in the future. However nothing beats my computer's VSTs sound wise. It just has so much more RAM and processing power. This means it plays larger files and larger files hold more information. So the textures in the timbres cannot be matched by hardware. Also the user interface is generally more extensive and intuitive as they take full advantage of the larger computer monitors and advanced graphics. Thanks for watching.
@@darrickkeels6387 great to hear your thoughts. looking forward to more videos, cheers
Very informative video, thanks!
I design and produce embedded electronic systems for a living. In my opinion the lack of good Yamaha tutorials combined with a baffling user interface makes the MODX and MONTAGE bloody difficult, unless you just want a good sounding keyboard.
Can you please do an in depth vid on the sequencer? I would like to know how many measures you can program into it....ie can you make a 100 or 150 measure sequence? Love your vids!!!
Thank you! I plan to
You can go up to 256 measures in one pattern, and then you can chain patterns, so it can go about as long as you can imagine. After the last update the sequencer is really very good - older videos won't show how good it is now.
The Montage/MODX starts with an entirely reimagined architecture that you have to wrap your mind around before it becomes intuitive. If you’ve owned any version of the Motif, much of this is familiar, but then they put all the sounds into these “Performances”, which can be visualized as multiple Motif’s controlled by a single keyboard. Each “Part” of a “Performance” is essentially an entire sound preset like you’d have in the Motif. You can have from 1 to 8 “Parts” per “Performance”, all with separate settings for EQ, Functions, etc etc etc etc.
Most of the editing parameters you’re used to in the Motif are also in the Montage/MODX, but some are not where you expect them to be.
The Montage/MODX is indeed a very powerful keyboard, but the navigation takes getting used to. It’s really a Motif on hyper-steroids.
If you can only have 8 parts per performance, then why do they offer 16 parts? How do you play the parts 9 thru 16?
@@psegs Parts 9-16 are for connecting to your DAW
I just got the MODX8 plus on Friday. Loving it so far. Want to ask if there is a way to set the octave button to transpose by default without having to hold shift?
I had to touch base with you.I have a Yamaha MODX 8 on the way and possibly an Arturia KeyLab 51 mk2 .The MODX will be the bottom keyboard and Arturia the top for other sounds,synths,layering.I had reservations of the MODX 8 jeybed, and was going to look at Jawai MP7Se,but funds are low and back order sucks!!!!!I decided to try the YamahaMODX8 keybed.Is this a good setup for studio?At least if I do a live gig I could take the Yamaha out based on one board.Thanks for the advice.Is there another 61 or 63 key that would compete with Arturia?