Yamaha DX21

The DX21 is one of Yamaha’s early FM (Frequency Modulation) synthesizers from 1985. Rather than using traditional oscillators, FM synthesizers produce sound by means of a sine wave modulating the frequency of another. Each of these modules is called an operator. The DX21 has 4 of these operators, and features 8 note polyphony. The sound is very unique (somewhere in between analog and digital) and can be heard on countless records. The DX21 was very popular with electronic and techno producers dating back to the late 80s, with many notable users including Hardfloor, Level 42 and Fat Boy Slim. Watch a demo.

This instrument is available for use at our studio in Long Beach, Ca for playing and recording. Contact us to book your time.

Custom patch loading is possible for this item. Send us your sysex, midi files containing sysex, tape backup audio, or even Opcode Galaxy Bank or Bundles or Unisyn files for pre-loading for synth rentals or synth recording services.

We can convert synth patches for this FM synth to almost any other type of FM synth. Learn more about our FM synth patch conversion.

Are you outside of LA or OC? No problem! We can record the synthesizer, drum sounds, or effects tracks for you! Send us your MIDI or audio files, we play it through the instrument or effects unit, record it, and send you the audio files. Learn more about our synthesizer and effects recording services.


Delivery of this item for weekly rentals in select areas within Los Angeles and Orange Counties.

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