Yamaha teases ‘Next Generation’ Montage Synthesizer
It looks like we are getting closer to the launch of the new version of Yamaha’s Montage, and there’s speculation that it’ll come with a new AN1x-style virtual analogue engine.
Yamaha has shared a sneak preview of a new ‘next generation’ Montage synthesizer.
In July, the company announced that they were retiring the original Yamaha Montage. At the time, they said that a next generation Montage will be coming in October.
The Montage, originally introduced in 2016, has been Yamaha’s flagship synthesizer, offered with three types of keyboards. In 2018, they introduced the MODX, a mid-range keyboard synth line, based on the same technology platform as the Montage.
Yamaha Synth has uploaded a selection of images to its website, and their file names suggest that the new instrument will be called the Montage M. There’s what looks like a sizeable touchscreen, and the Montage’s very handy SuperKnob macro controller appears to be also making a return.
The question is what’s going on under the hood. We’d expect Yamaha’s AWM2 waveform-based subtractive synthesis and FM-X engines to be retained, but there’s also speculation that an engine based on the company’s AN1x synth could be landing.
A late ‘90s classic, this was a retro-inspired virtual analogue keyboard that built up a loyal fanbase. Rumours of its return were sparked back in 2022 when Yamaha applied to trademark the AN-X name in relation to “electronic musical keyboards, electronic pianos and music synthesizers.”
We’ve seen no sign of the name since, so an appearance inside the Montage M is certainly possible, and maybe even likely. There are certainly some big analogue-esque sounds among the impressive audio demos, adding audible fuel to the fire.
Yamaha has also shared some audio demos of the new synth:
More audio demos are available at the Yamaha Synth website.
An official announcement on the new ‘next generation’ Montage line is expected to come next month.
